Name: Easy Broccoli Chicken Bake with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 500g Chicken breast, diced; 300g Broccoli, cut into small florets; 200g Cream cheese (e.g., for cooking); 150g Mozzarella, grated; 1 tsp Garlic powder; 1 tsp Onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp Olive oil or butter; ½ cup Chicken broth (preferably additive-free); 1 tsp Mustard (optional, for additional flavor); 1 tsp Dried thyme or Italian herbs

Brokkoli Hahnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkase Und Mozzarella – doesn’t that just roll off the tongue and promise a meal of pure, unadulterated comfort? I am absolutely thrilled to share with you a recipe that has become a true staple in my kitchen, bringing warmth and smiles to every dinner table. Imagine a dish where succulent, tender pieces of chicken meet vibrant, crisp-tender broccoli florets, all swimming in a rich, velvety sauce, crowned with a golden, bubbly layer of perfectly melted mozzarella and the creamy delight of fresh cream cheese. This isn’t just any ordinary casserole; it’s a culinary hug in a dish, expertly crafted for those evenings when you crave something deeply satisfying, hearty, and surprisingly effortless to prepare.

While perhaps not steeped in centuries of ancient tradition, the “Auflauf,” or casserole, holds a cherished place in German home cooking, celebrated for its ability to deliver wholesome and satisfying family meals. This particular iteration beautifully modernizes that concept, artfully marrying the wholesome goodness of lean protein and fresh vegetables with the irresistible indulgence of dairy, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that truly captivates the palate. People adore this dish not only for its incredible taste – the savory depth of the chicken, the subtly earthy notes of the broccoli, and the delightful blend of mild, creamy fresh cheese with the stretchy, bubbly mozzarella – but also for its remarkable convenience. It’s a fantastic one-pan wonder that minimizes cleanup and maximizes enjoyment, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. You’ll find that preparing this Brokkoli Hahnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkase Und Mozzarella is more than just cooking; it’s an act of creating pure, delectable contentment. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients:

500-600g Hähnchenbrustfilet (Chicken Breast Fillet): I always opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breast. It’s lean, cooks relatively quickly, and provides a wonderful base for our creamy casserole. You want about 2-3 average-sized fillets.

500g Brokkoli (Broccoli): One medium to large head of fresh broccoli is perfect. I love using fresh broccoli for its vibrant green color and slight crunch, even after baking. If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli florets work too, just make sure to thaw them slightly or blanch them directly from frozen.
1 Große Zwiebel (Large Onion): A yellow or brown onion works best here, providing a sweet aromatic foundation when sautéed.
2 Knoblauchzehen (Garlic Cloves): Freshly minced garlic is a must for me; it adds so much depth to the sauce.

200g Frischkäse (Cream Cheese): Full-fat cream cheese is my go-to for an incredibly rich and smooth sauce. You can use a lighter version, but the texture might be slightly different. Plain, unflavored cream cheese is essential.
200ml Schlagsahne (Heavy Cream): This is key for the luxurious creaminess of the sauce. Again, full-fat is recommended for the best flavor and consistency.
100ml Milch (Milk): I usually use whole milk, but semi-skimmed works fine too. It helps to thin the sauce to the perfect consistency without sacrificing richness.

150g Geriebener Mozzarella (Grated Mozzarella): For that classic cheesy pull and beautiful golden-brown top. I often buy a block and grate it myself as it melts even better, but pre-grated is convenient.
50g Geriebener Parmesan (Grated Parmesan): Adds a salty, umami kick and another layer of cheesy goodness to our Brokkoli Hähnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkäse Und Mozzarella.
2 Esslöffel Olivenöl (Olive Oil): For searing the chicken and sautéing the aromatics.

1 Teelöffel Paprikapulver (Paprika Powder): I prefer sweet paprika for its mild flavor and lovely color.
½ Teelöffel Knoblauchpulver (Garlic Powder): An extra layer of garlic flavor in the sauce.
½ Teelöffel Zwiebelpulver (Onion Powder): Enhances the onion flavor in the sauce without adding texture.

Salz und Frisch Gemahlener Schwarzer Pfeffer (Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper): To taste, generously seasoned throughout the cooking process.
Eine Prise Muskatnuss (Pinch of Nutmeg): A small but important addition to any creamy sauce, it really rounds out the flavors.
Optional: Frische Petersilie (Fresh Parsley): For garnish, it adds a touch of freshness and color.

Vorbereitung der Hauptzutaten (Preparing the Main Ingredients)

This phase is all about getting our core components ready so they can shine in our Brokkoli Hähnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkäse Und Mozzarella. Trust me, a little prep work now makes the cooking process so much smoother and enjoyable.

Den Backofen vorheizen: Let’s start by preheating our oven to 180°C (350°F) Ober-/Unterhitze. This way, it will be perfectly hot and ready when our casserole is assembled, ensuring an even bake.

Das Hähnchen vorbereiten:
1. Take your chicken breast fillets and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step that helps achieve a beautiful sear and prevents the chicken from steaming.
2. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, roughly 2-3 cm (about 1 inch) cubes. I try to make them as uniform as possible so they cook evenly.
3. Season the chicken generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and half of the paprika powder. Don’t be shy with the seasoning here; this is where a lot of the flavor for the chicken itself will come from.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. You might need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which would prevent searing.
5. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, until it’s beautifully golden brown and caramelized. The goal here isn’t to cook it through completely, as it will continue cooking in the oven, but rather to develop that wonderful depth of flavor from the browning. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside in a bowl.
Den Brokkoli vorbereiten:
1. Wash the fresh broccoli thoroughly. Cut off the thick stem, then separate the head into small, manageable florets. I aim for pieces that are roughly the same size as the chicken cubes, so everything cooks consistently and is easy to eat in each bite of our Brokkoli Hähnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkäse Und Mozzarella.
2. Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes. This par-cooking step is important because it tenderizes the broccoli slightly, enhances its vibrant green color, and ensures it’s perfectly cooked by the time the casserole is done without becoming mushy. If you’re using frozen broccoli, you can often just add it directly to the sauce later or give it a quick blanch.
3. Immediately drain the blanched broccoli and transfer it to a bowl of ice water (an ice bath). This “shocking” process stops the cooking, preserves the color, and maintains a slight crispness. After a minute or two, drain it very well and set it aside with the chicken.
Die Aromaten vorbereiten:
1. Peel and finely dice the large onion. Aim for small, even pieces so they can soften and release their aromatic sweetness without dominating the texture of our dish.
2. Peel and mince the garlic cloves. I personally love a microplane for this, it creates a paste that melts into the sauce beautifully.

Zubereitung der cremigen Frischkäsesauce (Preparing the Creamy Cream Cheese Sauce)

Now, let’s create the heart and soul of our Brokkoli Hähnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkäse Und Mozzarella – the irresistibly creamy and flavorful sauce. This sauce is what brings everything together, making every spoonful a pure delight.

Die Aromaten anbraten:
1. Using the same skillet where you seared the chicken (don’t clean it, those browned bits are flavor!), add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add the finely diced onion to the pan. Sauté over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft, translucent, and slightly golden. This process sweetens them and builds a foundational layer of flavor.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter very quickly.
Die Sauce anrühren:
1. Reduce the heat to low. Add the entire block of cream cheese to the pan with the sautéed onions and garlic. Let it soften for a minute, then start stirring it with a wooden spoon or a whisk until it begins to melt and combine with the aromatics.
2. Gradually pour in the heavy cream and milk, whisking continuously to ensure the cream cheese fully dissolves and creates a smooth, lump-free sauce. Keep the heat low to prevent scorching.
3. Continue to whisk and gently simmer the sauce for about 3-5 minutes, allowing it to slightly thicken. It should coat the back of a spoon.
Die Sauce würzen:
1. Remove the pan from the heat. Now it’s time to flavor our delicious sauce! Stir in the remaining paprika powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and a generous pinch of nutmeg. These spices truly elevate the flavor profile.
2. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Remember, the chicken was already seasoned, and cheese will add saltiness, so start with a moderate amount and adjust later if needed. Taste your sauce! This is the most important step – adjust seasonings until it tastes absolutely perfect to you.

Das Schichten des Auflaufs (Layering the Casserole)

We’re almost there! Now comes the satisfying part of bringing all our prepared elements together into a harmonious whole. This is where our Brokkoli Hähnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkäse Und Mozzarella truly starts to take shape.

Die Auflaufform vorbereiten: Lightly grease a large baking dish (approximately 20×30 cm or 9×13 inches) with a little bit of olive oil or butter. This helps prevent sticking and makes for easier cleanup.
Die Zutaten vermengen:
1. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the seared chicken pieces and the blanched, well-drained broccoli florets.
2. Pour about two-thirds of the creamy Frischkäsesauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture.
3. Using a spatula or large spoon, gently fold everything together until the chicken and broccoli are thoroughly coated with the rich, creamy sauce. Be careful not to mash the broccoli.
Den Auflauf schichten:
1. Transfer the sauced chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Make sure it’s distributed from edge to edge.
2. Evenly pour the remaining one-third of the cream cheese sauce over the top of the chicken and broccoli layer. This ensures that every part of the casserole remains incredibly moist and flavorful during baking.
3. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the entire surface of the casserole. This will add a salty, umami crust.
4. Finally, generously cover the top with the grated mozzarella cheese. This is what will give us that irresistible, golden-brown, bubbly cheese layer that we all love in a good gratin.

Backen des Brokkoli Hähnchen Auflaufs (Baking the Broccoli Chicken Casserole)

The moment of truth! Into the oven our beautiful Brokkoli Hähnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkäse Und Mozzarella goes. The aromas that will soon fill your kitchen are simply divine.

Backen: Carefully place the baking dish into the preheated oven (180°C / 350°F). Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes.

During this time, the sauce will bubble vigorously, the chicken will finish cooking through, and the broccoli will become perfectly tender. Most importantly, the cheese on top will melt into a luscious, gooey layer and then turn a beautiful golden-brown. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to ensure the cheese doesn’t get too dark.

Ruhen lassen: Once the casserole is golden and bubbly, carefully remove it from the oven. This step is important: Let the Brokkoli Hähnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkäse Und Mozzarella rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to portion and ensuring that every bite remains intact and wonderfully creamy. Plus, it prevents you from burning your mouth!

Serviervorschläge und Variationen (Serving Suggestions and Variations)

Our magnificent Brokkoli Hähnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkäse Und Mozzarella is a complete meal in itself, but there are always ways to elevate it or adapt it to your taste. This dish is incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner or even a comforting meal for guests.

Serviervorschläge:
1. Simple Greens: A light, refreshing green salad with a simple vinaigrette (lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper) is the perfect counterpoint to the rich and creamy casserole. The crispness and acidity cut through the richness beautifully.
2. Reis (Rice): Fluffy white rice or wild rice pilaf makes an excellent accompaniment, soaking up all that incredible creamy sauce. It turns the meal into an even heartier, more filling dish.
3. Nudeln (Pasta): Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or even egg noodles can be tossed with a little butter and herbs and served alongside. Sometimes, I even cook a small batch of pasta and stir it directly into the casserole before baking, turning it into a complete pasta bake!
4. Knuspriges Brot (Crusty Bread): A slice of crusty baguette or a hearty whole-grain bread is wonderful for dipping into the leftover sauce on your plate. Garlic bread would also be an exceptional choice.
5. Garnish: Before serving, I love to sprinkle some fresh, chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and a fresh herbal note.
Variationen und Anpassungen:
1. Gemüse-Booster (Vegetable Boost): This casserole is incredibly forgiving! Feel free to add other vegetables. Sliced mushrooms, bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), or even some spinach (wilted and squeezed dry) would be delicious additions. For a touch of sweetness, a handful of frozen peas added directly to the sauce before baking works wonders.
2. Schärfekick (Spice It Up): If you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes (Chili flakes) added to the sauce along with the other spices will give it a nice kick. You could also use a hot paprika powder instead of sweet.
3. Käse-Liebhaber (Cheese Lover’s Dream): Don’t limit yourself to just mozzarella and Parmesan! A little bit of grated Gruyère or even a sharp cheddar cheese mixed into the sauce or sprinkled on top would add even more depth and flavor. A touch of smoked Gouda could introduce a wonderfully complex note.
4. Hähnchen ersetzen (Chicken Alternatives): While “Brokkoli Hähnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkäse Und Mozzarella” specifically mentions chicken, you could easily substitute it. Cooked turkey breast, or even leftover shredded rotisserie chicken, works perfectly. For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for extra broccoli, cauliflower, or even some robust white beans.
5. Kräuter-Power (Herb Power): Beyond parsley, consider adding other fresh herbs. A touch of fresh thyme or oregano, either mixed into the sauce or sprinkled on top before baking, would be a delightful addition.
6. Glutenfrei (Gluten-Free): This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure all your ingredients (especially any processed ones like cream cheese or spices) are certified gluten-free. It’s an easy and delicious option for those avoiding gluten.
7. Knusprige Schicht (Crispy Topping): For an extra layer of texture, you could mix a few tablespoons of panko breadcrumbs with a drizzle of melted butter and sprinkle it over the mozzarella before baking. This creates a wonderfully crisp, golden crust.
8. Für Meal Prep (Meal Prep Friendly): This casserole is fantastic for meal prepping! You can prepare the entire dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, simply bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it’s starting from cold. It also reheats beautifully in individual portions.
No matter how you choose to serve or adapt it, this Brokkoli Hähnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkäse Und Mozzarella is sure to become a beloved recipe in your household. It’s truly comfort food at its best, combining wholesome ingredients with an incredible amount of flavor and creamy goodness.

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve journeyed together through the simple steps to create what I truly believe is a culinary masterpiece, a dish that will undoubtedly earn you rave reviews from everyone at your table. This isn’t just another weeknight meal; it’s an experience, a warm embrace in food form. The Brokkoli Hähnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkäse Und Mozzarella is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something profoundly comforting, incredibly flavorful, and undeniably satisfying.

What makes this particular casserole an absolute must-try? Firstly, its sheer versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, aiming to impress at a casual get-together, or simply craving something hearty and delicious, this dish fits the bill perfectly. The tender chicken, the vibrant, vitamin-packed broccoli, and that incredibly luscious combination of creamy Frischkäse (cream cheese) and stretchy, golden-brown mozzarella come together in a symphony of textures and tastes. It’s rich without being heavy, incredibly cheesy without being overwhelming, and remarkably balanced. I find myself constantly drawn back to this recipe because it delivers on flavor every single time, without fail.

Moreover, I personally love how forgiving and approachable this recipe is. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to achieve spectacular results. The steps are straightforward, the ingredients are accessible, and the payoff is immense. It’s also a fantastic way to sneak in some healthy greens, making it a win-win for both taste and nutrition. Every spoonful offers that delightful combination of savory chicken, earthy broccoli, and the irresistible gooeyness of melted cheese, all baked to golden perfection. Trust me when I say, once you smell this baking in your oven, you’ll understand why I’m so enthusiastic about it!

Elevate Your Brokkoli Hähnchen Auflauf Experience: Serving Suggestions

While this casserole is a complete meal on its own, here are a few ways I love to serve it to make it even more special:

Simple Green Salad: A crisp, light green salad with a zesty vinaigrette provides a wonderful contrast to the richness of the casserole.
Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or some garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious, creamy sauce.
Fluffy Rice or Quinoa: For an even heartier meal, serve it alongside a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or protein-rich quinoa.

Roasted Vegetables: If you want to double down on the veggies, a side of roasted asparagus or green beans would be delightful.

Creative Variations to Make It Your Own

This recipe is a fantastic canvas for your creativity! Don’t be afraid to experiment and tailor it to your personal preferences. Here are some variations I’ve tried and loved:

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, or a dash of smoked paprika for a deeper, more robust flavor. A touch of garlic powder or onion powder can also enhance the savory notes.

Herb Garden Freshness: Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or a sprinkle of dried Italian seasoning stirred into the sauce can add another layer of aromatic complexity.
Veggie Boost: Feel free to add other vegetables! Sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, a handful of frozen peas, or even some shredded carrots would be delicious additions. Just make sure to pre-cook any harder vegetables like carrots or bell peppers slightly before adding them to the casserole to ensure they’re tender.
Cheese Lovers Unite: While Frischkäse and Mozzarella are key, you could experiment with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top for extra savoriness, or even a different melting cheese like Gruyère for a more sophisticated flavor profile.

Protein Swap: Not a fan of chicken? You could easily substitute it with turkey breast, or for a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with cannellini beans or extra vegetables and perhaps some crumbled feta for a salty tang.
Make-Ahead Magic: This casserole is fantastic for meal prepping! You can assemble the entire dish ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.

So, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves and give this incredible Brokkoli Hähnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkäse Und Mozzarella a try this week. I promise you won’t regret it. It’s truly one of those recipes that brings people together, fills the home with delightful aromas, and leaves everyone feeling utterly content. Once you’ve made it, I would absolutely love to hear from you! Please share your experience in the comments below, tell me about any variations you tried, and even better, share a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s build a community around amazing food and shared culinary joys!

FAQs – People Also Ask:

Can I prepare the Brokkoli Hähnchen Auflauf ahead of time?

Absolutely! This casserole is fantastic for meal prep. You can assemble the entire dish, including the sauce, chicken, and broccoli, in your baking dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refriger refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to let it come closer to room temperature, and then bake as directed, potentially adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

How do I store leftovers and how long do they last?

Leftovers of the Brokkoli Hähnchen Auflauf are delicious! Simply transfer any remaining casserole into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave for individual portions, or cover and bake in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

Can I freeze this Brokkoli Hähnchen Auflauf?

Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully! You can freeze it either baked or unbaked. If freezing unbaked, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly with foil, and then an extra layer of plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To bake from frozen, remove the plastic wrap, cover with foil, and bake at a lower temperature (around 160°C/325°F) for about 60-90 minutes, or until bubbling and heated through, removing the foil for the last 15-20 minutes to brown the cheese. If freezing baked leftovers, portion them into individual freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What if I don’t have Frischkäse? Can I use something else?

Frischkäse (cream cheese) provides that signature creamy texture and tangy flavor, so it’s highly recommended. However, if you’re in a pinch, you could try using a combination of plain Greek yogurt (full-fat for creaminess) and a little extra heavy cream, or even some soft goat cheese for a different flavor profile. The texture might vary slightly, but it will still be delicious. Just be mindful of the added liquid if using yogurt.

Is it okay to use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh broccoli works wonderfully. You’ll want to chop it into bite-sized florets. I recommend blanching the fresh broccoli for about 2-3 minutes in boiling water and then shocking it in ice water before adding it to the casserole. This ensures it cooks evenly and retains its vibrant color and slight crispness without becoming mushy during the baking process.