There’s something magical about cheesy chicken and broccoli stuffed shells that just makes your heart sing. Imagine biting into a tender pasta shell filled with creamy, cheesy goodness, paired with perfectly seasoned chicken and fresh broccoli. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking what’s cooking before they even step foot inside.
I remember the first time I made these delightful stuffed shells. My family gathered around the table, eyes wide with anticipation, ready to dive into a comforting plate of cheesy goodness. It was one of those moments that lingered in my memory—a perfect blend of laughter, love, and delicious food.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These cheesy chicken and broccoli stuffed shells are easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile is a delightful mix of savory and creamy, ideal for any palate
- Visually stunning with vibrant colors, they are sure to impress at dinner parties
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients, this dish can easily accommodate personal preferences
The first time I served these stuffed shells, my kids begged for seconds—always a good sign in our household!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Jumbo Pasta Shells: Opt for large shells that can hold all that cheesy filling; they’re the stars of the show.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust according to how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
Fresh Broccoli: Use bright green florets; they add a nice crunch and a pop of color.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese creates a rich and creamy filling; don’t skimp on this one.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A generous amount enriches the texture; feel free to mix in other cheeses for variety.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle boosts the flavor profile without overpowering the dish.
Italian Seasoning: This adds a touch of herbaceous freshness; it’s like a little Italian vacation in every bite.
Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought sauce or whip up a quick homemade version for extra flair.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells
For more inspiration, check out this lunch recipes recipe.
Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that heats up, cook your chicken in a skillet over medium heat until no longer pink—about 6-8 minutes per side should do. Add diced broccoli during the last two minutes of cooking for perfect tenderness.
Make the Cheesy Filling: Transfer your cooked chicken and broccoli to a bowl. Mix in softened cream cheese, half of your shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until it’s a creamy masterpiece.
Stuff Those Shells!: Grab those jumbo pasta shells and carefully fill each one with your cheesy mixture using a spoon or piping bag if you’re feeling fancy. Don’t be shy—stuff them generously!
Add Marinara Sauce: Spread half of your marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a greased baking dish. Lay those stuffed shells on top like little soldiers lined up for battle.
Topping Time!: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells like a flavorful blanket. Sprinkle the rest of that glorious cheddar on top and if you dare, add more Italian herbs for an aromatic finish.
Bake and Enjoy!: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Serve hot—your family won’t be able to resist!
Now that you know how easy it is to whip up these cheesy chicken & broccoli stuffed shells, gather your ingredients and get ready for an unforgettable dinner! The combination of flavors will leave everyone craving more while creating beautiful memories around your dining table. For more inspiration, check out this more dinner recipes recipe.
Enjoy every bite as you watch smiles spread across faces—because that’s what good food does!
You Must Know
- Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are a delightful, comforting dish that impresses family and friends
- The creamy filling and cheesy goodness create a flavor explosion every time
- Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens without anyone noticing!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while cooking the shells. Sear chicken first for added flavor, then prepare the cheese mixture while the shells cook. This order saves time and keeps everything warm.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack to personalize your flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes or until warmed through, keeping them creamy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect stuffed shells, ensure they are al dente before filling them; this prevents them from becoming mushy during baking
- Use room temperature cheese for easier mixing and blending of flavors
- Experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano to elevate your dish!
During my first attempt at making Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells, my kitchen turned into a cheesy disaster zone! However, my family raved about them, reminding me that messes often lead to delicious memories.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli in Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well; just thaw and drain excess water before mixing.
What if I don’t have large pasta shells?
You can use manicotti or even small shells as an alternative; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?
Prepare the stuffed shells and refrigerate them unbaked. Bake when ready to serve for fresh results.
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Stuffed Shells are a comforting dish that perfectly combines tender pasta, creamy filling, and vibrant veggies. This delightful recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With a cheesy chicken and broccoli filling enveloped in jumbo pasta shells, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table!
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 cup fresh broccoli florets
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1.5 cups marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook chicken in a skillet over medium heat until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes per side. Add diced broccoli during the last two minutes.
- In a bowl, combine cooked chicken, broccoli, cream cheese, half of the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until smooth.
- Fill each jumbo pasta shell generously with the mixture.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a greased baking dish, then arrange stuffed shells on top.
- Pour remaining marinara sauce over shells and sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes; uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
