Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells

Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells 🧀🥦🍗

These Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are a comforting and satisfying dish that combines tender pasta, juicy chicken, and nutritious broccoli, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes that the whole family will love.

Let’s dive into how to make these delicious stuffed shells step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Comfort Food Classic : Creamy, cheesy, and hearty—perfect for cozy meals.
2. Nutritious & Filling : Packed with protein from chicken, fiber from broccoli, and carbs from pasta.
3. Easy to Make : Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it beginner-friendly.
4. Customizable : Swap ingredients or add spices to suit your taste.
5. Meal Prep Friendly : Great for making ahead and reheating throughout the week.

Ingredients

(Serves 4–6)

• 12 jumbo pasta shells , cooked according to package instructions
• 1½ cups cooked chicken , diced (rotisserie chicken works great for convenience )
• 1 cup steamed broccoli , chopped (about 1 cup florets, steamed until tender )
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese )
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup milk
• Optional : Salt, pepper, garlic powder, or red pepper flakes for extra seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
2. Lightly grease a baking dish (approximately 8×8 inches or similar size) with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken , steamed broccoli , and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese . Stir to evenly distribute the ingredients.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and milk until smooth. Add salt, pepper, or other seasonings if desired.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

1. Spoon a generous portion of the chicken and broccoli mixture into each cooked pasta shell. Arrange the stuffed shells in the prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between each shell.

Step 5: Add the Sauce

1. Pour the creamy soup mixture evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they’re well coated.

Step 6: Top with Cheese

1. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the shells for a gooey, golden finish.

Step 7: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes , or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and lightly browned.

Step 8: Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.

Tips for Success

1. Use Rotisserie Chicken : Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful protein source.
2. Add Veggies : Swap broccoli for spinach, zucchini, or peas if you prefer.
3. Make It Spicy : Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the filling or sauce for a kick.
4. Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days . Reheat in the microwave or oven.
5. Freeze for Later : Assemble the dish without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Perfect Pairings

These Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells pair beautifully with:

• Garlic Bread : Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Green Salad : Serve with a crisp arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Roasted Vegetables : Pair with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus for added nutrition.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water or lemonade for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 6 servings)

• Calories : ~350 kcal
• Protein : ~25g
• Carbohydrates : ~30g
• Fat : ~18g
• Fiber : ~2g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

These Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are a hearty, comforting dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something indulgent yet wholesome, this recipe delivers big on flavor and satisfaction. The combination of tender pasta, juicy chicken, and creamy cheese creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the ingredients, adjust the seasonings, or pair it with different sides to make it your own. So grab your shells, stuff them with goodness, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.