Irresistible Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of cheesy goodness and tender chicken enveloped in hearty pasta shells. When you whip up a batch of Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells, you’re not just making dinner; you’re crafting a warm hug on a plate. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as the cheese bubbles away, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This dish is perfect for cozy evenings or when you need a little extra love in your life. For more inspiration, check out this Flavorful Chicken Burrito Bowls recipe.

Now, let me take you on a whimsical journey back to my childhood, where this dish made its debut during family movie nights. My dad would whip it up after we’d fought over what to watch on TV. Somehow, when he placed that cheesy masterpiece in front of us, all arguments vanished. It was the ultimate peace treaty: cheesy shells filled with chicken and broccoli, gooey and delightful. Prepare your taste buds for some serious flavor fireworks!

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Large Pasta Shells: Choose jumbo shells that can hold all that cheesy goodness inside; they’re the stars of this show!
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 2-3 cups diced; tender chicken brings protein-packed satisfaction.
• Fresh Broccoli: Use about two cups of chopped broccoli florets for that delightful crunch and nutrition boost.
• Shredded Cheese: A mix of mozzarella and cheddar works best because more cheese equals more happiness!
• Garlic Powder: A sprinkle adds depth; it’s like an aromatic hug for your taste buds.
• Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tanginess that perfectly complements the other ingredients.

For the Sauce:

• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth enhances flavor without overpowering it; it’s liquid gold!
• Olive Oil: A drizzle helps sauté the chicken and gives everything a lovely sheen.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks later on.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add those jumbo pasta shells. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Your Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in the diced chicken breast seasoned with salt and pepper. Chicken Cheesesteak Skillet Sauté until golden brown and fully cooked about 6-8 minutes.

Step 4: Add Broccoli

Stir in chopped broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking the chicken until bright green and tender-crisp—around three minutes should do it!

Step 5: Mix Cheese & Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, half of the shredded cheese, garlic powder, and chicken broth until smooth. Fold in your chicken-broccoli mixture until well combined.

Step 6: Assemble & Bake

Stuff each shell with generous amounts of the cheesy filling and arrange them in the baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top for extra ooey-gooeyness! Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every creamy bite of these Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells you’ve earned it! Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown. While it cooks, boil the pasta shells until al dente. In another pan, whip up your cheese sauce. This sequence ensures everything is perfectly timed for a harmonious blend of flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack, and toss in spices like red pepper flakes to elevate the flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to retain creaminess.

There was a time when I made this dish for my friends’ potluck. They devoured it so quickly that I barely got a taste! Their compliments still make me smile every time I whip it up again.

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells?

To make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells, you will require several key ingredients. You’ll need large pasta shells, cooked chicken (shredded), fresh broccoli florets, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. One Pot Chicken Parmesan Additionally, a little milk can help achieve the desired creamy consistency. These ingredients combine to create a delicious and hearty dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.

How long does it take to prepare Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells?

Preparing Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells typically takes about 15 minutes. Cooking the pasta shells may add another 10-12 minutes, depending on the package instructions. After boiling the shells, you’ll mix the filling with shredded chicken and broccoli before stuffing them into the shells. Baking the assembled dish in the oven usually requires around 20-25 minutes. Overall, you can expect to have this comforting meal ready in under an hour.

Can I make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells ahead of time. After assembling the dish, cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply preheat your oven and bake as directed. If baking from cold, you may need to add a few extra minutes to ensure everything heats through properly. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

What variations can I try with Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells?

There are many delicious variations you can try with Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells. For instance, you could substitute different vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for broccoli. Using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, can also change up the flavor profile. Additionally, consider adding spices like cayenne pepper for some heat or using rotisserie chicken for added convenience and flavor.

Conclusion for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells :

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that appeal to everyone at the table. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, this dish makes weeknight dinners enjoyable without much hassle. You can customize it with various vegetables or cheeses based on your preference. Cajun Chicken Shells Whether you prepare it ahead of time or bake it fresh from scratch, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.

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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells

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• Author: Hannah
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells are a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and gooey cheese, all nestled in large pasta shells. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that invites seconds. With its creamy filling and delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 large pasta shells
• 2 cups diced boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups chopped fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Cook the pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente (about 10-12 minutes). Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Sauté diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown (about 6-8 minutes). Add broccoli during the last three minutes of cooking.
4. In a bowl, mix sour cream, half of the cheeses, garlic powder, and chicken broth until smooth. Fold in the chicken-broccoli mixture.
5. Stuff each shell with the cheesy filling and arrange them in the baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and cover with foil.
6. Bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly. Serve warm.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed pasta shell (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: - Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. - Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for varied flavors. - Add spices like red pepper flakes for an extra kick.