Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells Recipe

If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing dinner that’s both comforting and irresistibly cheesy, look no further than Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells. This is the dinner my friends always ask me to bring to potlucks and the one my family can’t help but cheer for. Jumbo pasta shells cradle a hot, creamy mix of chicken, broccoli, and gooey cheddar cheese, all blanketed in a luscious sauce and baked until bubbling perfection. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for special occasions, delivering delicious flavor in every single bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are beautifully straightforward, each one bringing something essential to the table. Together they create a cozy, satisfying dish full of rich flavor, color, and creamy texture. Don’t skip any—it’s their union that gives this classic its signature taste!

• Jumbo pasta shells: The perfect vessel for holding all that creamy, cheesy filling.
• Cooked chicken, diced: Use leftovers or rotisserie for convenience and juicy flavor.
• Steamed broccoli, chopped: Adds pops of color, nutrition, and a bright, earthy freshness.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: For unbeatable meltiness and that savory cheesy punch.
• Cream of chicken soup: Lends creaminess to the sauce and ties all the flavors together.
• Milk: Thins the sauce just enough to keep things luscious but not runny.
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder: Essential seasonings for dialing up the flavor of the filling and sauce.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the diced cooked chicken, chopped steamed broccoli, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt, a few generous cracks of black pepper, and a little garlic powder to bring out the flavors. Stir it all together until the mixture looks tempting enough to sneak a bite—this is your hearty, cheesy filling base.

Step 2: Stuff the Shells

Take your cooked jumbo pasta shells (let them cool slightly for easier handling) and gently fill each one with a heaping spoonful of the chicken and broccoli mixture. Don’t overstuff—aim for a perfect balance of filling and shell so they hold together during baking. Arrange them snuggly in a greased baking dish as you go.

Step 3: Whisk Up the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and milk until smooth. This sauce should be velvety, not runny or too thick. Season it lightly with more salt and pepper, then pour it evenly over the stuffed shells in your dish. This rich sauce will mingle with the filling as it bakes, creating that melt-in-your-mouth effect.

Step 4: Add Extra Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of your shells. Don’t be shy—this glorious cheesy crust is what makes Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells utterly irresistible. The cheese will bubble and turn golden as the dish bakes, inviting everyone to the table with its tempting aroma.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Pop the dish into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and just starting to brown around the edges. You should see the sauce bubbling up between the shells, promising a cozy dinner that’s ready to serve hot and melty right out of the oven.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells

Garnishes

To really make these shells sing, scatter some freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheddar on top just before serving. These little touches add a pop of color and an extra burst of flavor. For a bit of zing, try a dusting of crushed red pepper flakes.

Side Dishes

Pair Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells with a crisp green salad dressed in your favorite vinaigrette, or serve alongside garlic bread for soaking up every drop of sauce. Roasted veggies or steamed green beans also make great partners, balancing out the creamy richness of the main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve the shells individually on small plates with a drizzle of sauce. For family-style dining, bring the bubbling casserole dish right to the table and let everyone help themselves. Hosting a party? Place Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells in mini ramekins for a fun appetizer spin!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells keep very well in the refrigerator. Simply cover the baking dish with foil or transfer shells to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days without losing that lovely creamy texture.

Freezing

If you want to freeze, prepare the dish right up until the baking step. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual—the flavors only deepen with time!

Reheating

To reheat, place the shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. For individual portions, a quick zap in the microwave works great—just add a splash of milk to keep things moist and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is perfect for Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells, making prep even quicker. Its savory flavor and juicy texture work perfectly in the filling.

Can I substitute the broccoli with another vegetable?

Yes, you can! Spinach, mushrooms, or even finely chopped bell peppers make great swaps or additions. Just be sure to sauté or steam them first so the filling stays tender and flavorful.

Is there a way to lighten up the sauce?

Certainly! Use low-fat cream of chicken soup and skim milk for a lighter sauce, or try swapping in Greek yogurt for part of the soup for extra protein and tang.

What’s the best way to keep shells from sticking together?

After boiling, drain the shells and lay them out on a baking sheet with a touch of olive oil. This keeps them separated until you’re ready to fill each one with that delicious cheesy mixture.

Can I make Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Definitely. Assemble the stuffed shells and cover the baking dish tightly. You can keep them in the fridge overnight, then bake just before serving. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights or dinner parties!

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells before, I can’t recommend them enough—each bite delivers pure homey comfort with an irresistible cheesy kick. This recipe is sure to become a favorite you’ll return to again and again, so gather your ingredients and give it a try soon. I promise, sharing a bubbling dish of these stuffed shells with family and friends is the kind of simple joy everyone remembers!

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