Farfalle with chicken, mushrooms, and cucumbers

Farfalle with chicken, mushrooms, and pickles - A simple and delicious recipe for the whole family!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

This dish is a delightful combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together perfectly to create a comforting meal. Farfalle with chicken, mushrooms, and pickles are ideal for a quick family dinner or to impress guests. This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients that will give you the energy you need for the whole day.

History and Inspiration
Farfalle, a type of pasta shaped like butterflies, are famous for their ability to hold sauces, making them an excellent carrier of flavors. The combination of chicken and mushrooms is a classic one, often found in various recipes around the world, due to the versatility of these ingredients. The pickles add a tangy note that perfectly complements the dish, making it more interesting and balanced in taste.

Your Key Ingredients
- Chicken breast (600 g): Choose fresh, skinless chicken breast for the best taste and texture.
- Champignon mushrooms (500 g): These mushrooms are affordable and have a delicate flavor, but you can experiment with shiitake or porcini mushrooms for an added depth of flavor.
- Pickles (5 pieces): Pickles add a crunchy and tangy note, balancing the rich flavor of the sauce.
- Olive oil (50 ml): Use extra virgin olive oil for superior flavor.
- Cooking cream (250 ml): This will add creaminess to the sauce and a rich taste.
- Flour (4 tablespoons): Helps thicken the sauce.
- Iodized salt, freshly ground pepper: Essential spices to bring all the flavors to life.
- Bay leaf (1 piece): Adds a subtle yet distinct flavor to the dish.
- Farfalle (500 g): This pasta is perfect for serving with richer sauces.
- Rosemary: This is an excellent choice to add a fragrant note, but you can also use other herbs like thyme or oregano.

Preparation Steps
1. Start by preparing the ingredients. Cut the chicken breast into thin strips, clean the mushrooms, and slice them. Prepare the pickles by cutting them into rounds.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken strips and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Make sure to turn them periodically for even cooking.

3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and continue cooking for 10 minutes, uncovered. This step will allow the mushrooms to release their juices, enriching the dish's flavor.

4. Meanwhile, place the pickle rounds in a pot of cold water and add the bay leaf. Boil for 10 minutes, then strain to remove the water. These will add a fresh and crunchy note to the dish.

5. Once the mushrooms are cooked, add the boiled pickles to the skillet. Mix well and let everything simmer together for 10 minutes to combine the flavors.

6. In a small bowl, mix the flour with the cooking cream and a little cold water to create a smooth paste. Add this mixture to the skillet, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook over low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently.

7. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and rosemary to taste. Your sauce is now ready!

8. In another pot, boil salted water and add the farfalle. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil to prevent sticking.

9. Serve the farfalle on deep plates, topped with the chicken, mushroom, and pickle sauce. You can add some fresh rosemary for a special touch.

Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad and a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade. You can also sprinkle grated parmesan on top for an extra flavor boost.

Variations and Tips
- Substitute the chicken breast with turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Experiment with different types of mushrooms to discover new combinations.
- You can add vegetables like carrots or peas for added color and nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain farfalle is an excellent option for a healthier meal.

2. How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the oven.

3. Can I make the dish spicier?
Add a pinch of chili powder or chili sauce to give it a spicy kick.

Nutritional Benefits
This dish is rich in protein due to the chicken breast, and mushrooms are an excellent source of antioxidants. The pickles contribute to digestive health and add extra vitamins.

Approximate Calories per Serving
A serving of farfalle with chicken, mushrooms, and pickles contains approximately 600-700 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

In conclusion, farfalle with chicken, mushrooms, and pickles is not only a tasty dish but also easy to prepare, perfect for bringing the family to the table. Don't hesitate to express your creativity in the kitchen and adapt the recipe to your preferences. Enjoy your meal!