The delightful aroma of bubbling cheese and tender chicken wafts through the air, instantly making your mouth water in anticipation. Imagine digging into a warm plate of Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells that not only satisfies cravings but also makes you feel like a culinary genius. For more inspiration, check out this lunch options recipe.
This dish comes with a side of nostalgia, as it reminds me of cozy family dinners where laughter filled the room. There’s something about cheesy goodness nestled within pasta shells that brings everyone together, making it perfect for gatherings or just a simple weeknight dinner. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These cheesy stuffed shells are incredibly easy to prepare, ensuring even novice cooks can impress their guests
- The flavor profile is a harmonious blend of creamy cheese and savory chicken
- Visually stunning with vibrant colors, they shine on any dinner table
- Versatile enough to adapt to various tastes, you can easily swap ingredients based on what you have at home
I still remember the first time I made these for my friends; their faces lit up like kids on Christmas morning when they took their first bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Jumbo Pasta Shells: Opt for sturdy shells that hold the filling well and add visual appeal.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; adjust according to your guest list.
Fresh Broccoli: Vibrant green florets add color and nutrition; chop them finely for even cooking.
Cream Cheese: Use softened cream cheese for easier mixing; it adds that irresistible creaminess.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: A generous amount melts beautifully and creates that ooey-gooey texture we crave.
Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle this aged cheese for an extra depth of flavor; trust me, it’s worth it.
Garlic Powder: This pantry staple infuses the filling with savory goodness without overwhelming the dish.
Italian Seasoning: A mix of dried herbs enhances the overall flavor and aroma perfectly.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to taste; don’t skimp here!
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps sauté vegetables or greasing pans; use high-quality oil for better flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells
Getting started is half the fun! Here’s how you create this cheesy masterpiece step by step.
Cook the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool.
Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Add Broccoli: Toss in finely chopped broccoli towards the last few minutes of cooking chicken. Cook until bright green and tender yet still crisp, about 2-3 minutes more.
Create the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine sautéed chicken, broccoli, softened cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well blended into a creamy filling.
Stuff the Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully fill each cooked shell with a generous scoop of filling. Place them seam side up in a greased baking dish for optimal gooeyness.
Bake Until Golden: Cover stuffed shells with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. The aroma will drive you wild!
This Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells recipe isn’t just another meal; it’s an experience filled with laughter and warmth. Share it with loved ones or savor it all by yourself—either way, you’re in for an extraordinary treat!
You Must Know
- Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are a delightful blend of flavors
- The creamy cheese and tender chicken complement the broccoli perfectly, making it a family favorite
- Enjoy the comforting aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this dish for a cozy meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta shells first while preparing the filling and sauce simultaneously for maximum efficiency. This ensures everything comes together perfectly hot and delicious.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out broccoli for spinach or add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist. Experimenting with different cheeses can also elevate the flavor profile to suit your palate.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring that cheesy goodness returns.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect stuffed shells, use large pasta shells to hold more filling
- Always taste your filling before stuffing to ensure it’s seasoned just right
- Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving for better plating and easier handling
Memories of my family gathering around the table, savoring these stuffed shells, remind me of how food brings us closer. Their smiles made every effort worthwhile.
FAQ
Can I make Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Yes, prepare them a day before and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What type of sauce works best for this recipe?
A creamy Alfredo sauce pairs beautifully with these stuffed shells.
Can I freeze Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells?
Absolutely! They freeze well; just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells. This delightful dish features tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy cheese filling all nestled in jumbo pasta shells. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe will impress even novice cooks with its ease and deliciousness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), diced
- 1 cup fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the pasta shells in boiling salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown (6-8 minutes).
- Add chopped broccoli to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking until bright green (2-3 minutes).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, broccoli, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Stuff each shell with the chicken mixture and place seam side up in a greased baking dish.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 stuffed shells (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Swap broccoli for spinach or add sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or feta for unique twists.
