Farfalle with chicken in white sauce

Farfalle with chicken in white sauce – A delicious recipe that brings a touch of elegance and comfort to your table!

Who doesn't love pasta? These delights made from flour and water have been an essential part of meals around the world, and nothing compares to farfalle, butterfly-shaped pasta that adds a playful touch to any dish. The name 'farfalle' comes from the Italian word 'farfalla', which means butterfly, and this pasta has been used for over 500 years. Today, I will guide you through a simple and quick recipe that transforms farfalle into a savory dish with chicken and a creamy white sauce.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients
- 1 package of farfalle (approx. 400 g)
- 1 chicken breast (approx. 300 g)
- 1/2 package of butter (approx. 100 g)
- 100 g grated cheese
- 200 ml cream
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 100-150 ml milk
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Basil (optional)
- 1 teaspoon of olive oil

Step-by-step preparation

1. Boil the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add generous salt, as well as a teaspoon of olive oil to prevent the pasta from sticking. When the water starts to boil, add the farfalle and follow the instructions on the package for boiling time. I recommend leaving them an extra minute to achieve an al dente texture.

2. Prepare the chicken breast: While the pasta is boiling, cut the chicken breast into evenly sized cubes. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the chicken cubes and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden and well done, about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, remove it and set it aside.

3. Prepare the white sauce: In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Then, add the flour and mix well to form a roux. This will thicken the sauce. Continue to stir for 1-2 minutes, then gradually add the cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

4. Add the milk: Once you have a smooth mixture, remove the skillet from heat and gradually incorporate the milk until you reach the desired consistency. The sauce should not be too thick or too thin, so adjust the amount of milk according to your preferences. Then, reheat the sauce over low heat and add the grated cheese, stirring until it is completely melted.

5. Combine the pasta, chicken, and sauce: When the pasta is ready, drain it and add it to the skillet with the white sauce. Also add the cooked chicken cubes and gently mix to ensure that each farfalle is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

6. Final touches: Remove the skillet from heat and season with salt, pepper, and finely chopped parsley. If you like, you can also add basil for an extra flavor.

7. Serving: Serve the farfalle hot, straight from the skillet, for a rustic and comforting look. You can sprinkle some grated cheese on top, along with a few fresh parsley leaves for an attractive garnish.

Helpful tips
- You can replace the chicken breast with turkey for a lighter option or with tofu for a vegetarian choice.
- If you want to add a crunchy note, you can sauté some thin slices of mushrooms or zucchini and add them to the plate.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, and a glass of white wine would perfectly complete the meal.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other types of pasta? Of course! Farfalle is ideal, but you can also use penne or fusilli, depending on your preferences.
- How do I store leftovers? You can keep leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for 1-2 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
- Can I replace the cream? Yes, you can use low-fat cream or even Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Nutritional benefits
This farfalle with chicken in white sauce recipe provides a good source of protein from the chicken breast and calcium from the cheese. Additionally, the cream adds healthy fats, but it is best consumed in moderation, especially if you are watching your caloric intake.

In conclusion, farfalle with chicken in white sauce is not just a simple recipe, but also an opportunity to enjoy a comforting meal, perfect for any occasion. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or to impress guests, this recipe is certainly one that will stay in the memory of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!