There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of a bubbling casserole wafting through the house, especially when it’s Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells. refreshing pasta salad Imagine tender pasta shells filled with creamy, cheesy goodness and vibrant broccoli, all draped in a luscious sauce. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds!

I can still hear my family’s delighted gasps the first time I served this dish. It was one of those evenings when I thought, “Let’s impress everyone without breaking a sweat.” Spoiler alert: they were impressed. This recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or even a casual get-together with friends—everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The cheesy filling pairs perfectly with tender pasta shells, making this dish irresistible
It’s visually stunning and colorful, guaranteed to brighten your dinner table
You can prepare these stuffed shells ahead of time and bake them just before serving
The creamy sauce ties everything together beautifully for a delightful meal

It was an unforgettable family gathering where I first made Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells and saw my niece’s eyes light up with excitement. spicy ranch slaw.

Essential Ingredients

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

Jumbo Pasta Shells: Choose larger shells to hold the cheesy filling; they’re like little edible cups of joy! Caesar-inspired salad cups.
Cooked Chicken Breast: Shredded or diced, it adds protein; rotisserie chicken works wonders if you’re short on time.
Fresh Broccoli: Use vibrant green florets; they add crunch and color, making your dish pop!
Cream Cheese: This adds richness to the filling; let it soften at room temperature for easy mixing.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: A must-have for that gooey topping; sprinkle generously for maximum cheese stretch!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan gives a salty kick that complements the other cheeses perfectly.
Garlic Powder: Just a dash enhances flavor without overpowering; trust me, you’ll want this!
Italian Seasoning: A mix of herbs that brings everything together; it’s like a flavor party in your mouth!
Marinara Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade; it forms the delicious base for your stuffed shells.
Olive Oil: A drizzle before baking helps achieve that golden crust on top.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly while you prepare the filling.

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente—about 9 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Create the Filling: In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, cream cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until well combined. The mixture should be creamy and fragrant.

Stuff Those Shells: Take each shell and fill them generously with the chicken-broccoli mixture. Place them upright in a greased baking dish as if they’re ready to take center stage at your dinner table.

Add Marinara Sauce: Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells evenly. Feel free to use as much sauce as you like—it’s all about personal preference!

Topping Time: Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese and parmesan over the top of the shells. Drizzle olive oil lightly for that golden finish during baking.

Bake Away: Cover with aluminum foil and bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

And there you have it! Your Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are ready to be devoured. Serve hot with some garlic bread on the side for an extra treat! For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Tenders with Garlic Parmesan recipe.

Enjoy every cheesy bite as you reminisce about cozy family dinners or lazy movie nights—this dish is bound to become one of your favorites!

You Must Know

Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food
They combine rich flavors and creamy textures, making them irresistible
Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, these shells can be customized easily to suit everyone’s taste, creating a satisfying experience

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the shells according to package instructions while sautéing the chicken and broccoli. This multitasking saves time and ensures all components are fresh and flavorful.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or add spinach for extra greens. Experimenting with different cheeses can also elevate your dish!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through for best texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh broccoli for a vibrant crunch that pairs perfectly with creamy cheese
Avoid overcooking the pasta shells; they should be al dente to hold their shape
Layer extra cheese on top before baking for a bubbly, golden finish!

Cooking these Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells became a family tradition after my kids declared them “the best dinner ever!” Their enthusiasm made me realize how special these moments can be.

FAQ

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

Yes, you can prepare them earlier and store unbaked shells in the fridge overnight.

What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

A mix of mozzarella and ricotta creates a wonderfully creamy filling that everyone loves.

Can I freeze these stuffed shells?

Absolutely! Freeze them before baking for an easy meal option later on.

Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells