Creamy Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Welcome to a dish that defines comfort and flavor in every bite – Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells! The aroma of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and wholesome broccoli baking together is an invitation to cozy up at the dinner table. This recipe is not just a crowd-pleaser but also a time-saver, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

When it comes to creating a dish that balances indulgence with nutritional goodness, Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells hits all the right notes. The marriage of cheddar cheese’s boldness with the subtle sweetness of broccoli, all enveloped in jumbo pasta shells, creates a symphony of flavors that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, one gooey, cheesy forkful at a time.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, these Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells are a breeze to put together. Feel free to customize by swapping ingredients or adding your own twist – versatility is the name of the game with this recipe. So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to savor a dish that promises to be a hit with your loved ones. Let’s dive into the world of Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells and discover the magic of comfort food done right!

Quick Benefits

• Creamy and filling dish that is perfect for busy nights or family get-togethers
• Sneak in some veggies like broccoli for added nutrition without sacrificing taste
• Versatile recipe that allows for substitutions based on what ingredients you have on hand
• Easy to prepare ahead of time and store for quick lunches or freezer meals

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe

• Comfort Food Heaven: The Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Stuffed Shells emit a cozy, comforting aroma that fills your home.
• Family-Friendly: Perfect for busy nights, this recipe is easy to make, creamy, filling, and loved by picky eaters, making it a go-to meal for family dinners.
• Potluck Favorite: A hit at potlucks and family gatherings, this dish is irresistible and guarantees an empty dish every time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Swap ingredients like turkey, ham, cauliflower, or spinach to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Make-ahead Convenience: Prepare in advance and refrigerate for up to a day before baking, making it a convenient option for a quick dinner.
• Leftover Friendly: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to two months, offering delicious meals even on busy days.
• Customizable: Add a variety of veggies or cheeses to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish to suit your taste preferences.
• Party Hit: Cut into smaller pieces for appetizers at parties, and watch them disappear quickly, especially when topped with extra cheese.
• Cheese Lover’s Dream: The combination of cheddar cheese, creamy sauce, and pasta shells creates a bubbly, cheesy pasta bake that is both comforting and delicious.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Main Ingredients

• 170 grams cheddar cheese, shredded
• 150 grams steamed broccoli, finely chopped
• 225 grams cooked chicken breast, diced
• 12 jumbo pasta shells, cooked

Sauce & Seasoning

• Salt, to taste
• Garlic powder, to taste
• 1 can (approx. 300 grams) cream of chicken soup
• Black pepper, to taste
• 120 millilitres whole milk

Pro Tips for Creamy Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese

To make the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells even more flavorful, consider adding a sprinkle of paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat. This will add a nice kick to the dish and elevate the overall taste.

When preparing the filling, ensure the cooked chicken is seasoned well to enhance the flavor profile of the dish. You can marinate the chicken beforehand with herbs and spices like thyme, oregano, or paprika for an extra burst of taste.

For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the stuffed shells before baking. This will add a delightful crunch to contrast with the creamy filling and make the dish even more satisfying.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Combine Filling

Combine finely chopped steamed broccoli, diced chicken, and half of the cheddar in a large bowl, ensuring an even mixture.

Step 2: Fill Pasta Shells

Fill the shells with the chicken and broccoli mixture, then place them in a baking dish.

Step 3: Prepare Sauce

Combine cream of chicken soup and milk in a separate bowl, stirring until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble and Top

Pour the mixed sauce over the shells and sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake

Place the dish in a preheated oven at 175°C and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells, storing leftovers properly is key to maintaining their freshness and flavor. To store the dish in the refrigerator, place it in an airtight container and ensure that it has cooled down completely to prevent excess moisture buildup. The Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells can be refrigerated for up to three days. When reheating, adding a splash of milk before microwaving or covering and baking at 350°F until heated through will help retain the dish’s creamy texture.

If you plan to freeze the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells for future consumption, make sure the shells are completely cold before tightly wrapping them. Frozen leftovers can be stored for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator to preserve the sauce’s smooth consistency, then reheat in the oven until warmed through. Feel free to customize the recipe by substituting ingredients like turkey, ham, different cheeses, or vegetables like cauliflower or spinach to suit your preferences or accommodate dietary restrictions. Whether served as a main meal with garlic bread or as a party appetizer, these bubbly and comforting cheesy shells are sure to be a hit with your family and guests.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a different flavor profile, consider swapping the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese. These cheeses will still melt beautifully and provide a milder, creamier taste to the dish.

If you don’t have cream of chicken soup on hand, you can easily make a white sauce using flour, butter, and stock as a substitute. This homemade sauce will add a rich and creamy texture to the dish similar to the original recipe.

If you’re looking to switch up the protein or vegetables, feel free to use cooked turkey or diced ham instead of chicken. Additionally, cauliflower florets or spinach can be used in place of broccoli for a different twist on the dish. The key is to choose ingredients that you enjoy and that complement the cheesy stuffed shells.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and festive presentation, try serving the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells in individual mini cast-iron skillets. Top each skillet with an extra sprinkle of cheddar cheese before baking to create a gooey, cheesy crust that everyone will love. Pair the dish with some crusty garlic bread on the side for a complete and satisfying meal.

To elevate the dish for a special occasion, consider garnishing the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells with a drizzle of truffle oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme before serving. This will add a touch of elegance and complexity to the comforting flavors of the cheesy stuffed shells. Serve with a side of roasted balsamic vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish and add a pop of color to the plate.

FAQs for Creamy Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella or your favorite cheese blend for a different flavor profile.

How can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can fill the shells and cover them with sauce, then refrigerate for up to a day before baking them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

What can I do if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?

If you’re out of cream of chicken soup, you can make a quick white sauce with flour, butter, and stock as a substitute to pour over the shells.

Can I add other ingredients to the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like spinach, cooked mushrooms, or chopped bell peppers to enhance the flavor and color of the dish.

Conclusion

As you finish preparing your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells, take a moment to appreciate the delicious aroma filling your kitchen. These stuffed shells are not only a crowd-pleaser but also a versatile dish that you can customize to suit your preferences. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells will always be a hit.

Don’t hesitate to get creative with this recipe by experimenting with different cheese combinations, protein options, or vegetable additions. The beauty of Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells lies in its adaptability to your taste and pantry staples. Remember, cooking is an art, so feel free to personalize this dish to make it your own signature comfort food. Embrace the warmth and comfort these cheesy shells bring to your table, and savor each bite knowing that you’ve created something truly special with Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells.

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Creamy and comforting Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Stuffed Shells bake, perfect for picky eaters and family gatherings, guaranteeing a cozy mealtime favorite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time20 Minutes

Cook Time25 Minutes

Total Time45 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings (12 filled pasta shells)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 170 grams cheddar cheese, shredded
• 150 grams steamed broccoli, finely chopped
• 225 grams cooked chicken breast, diced
• 12 jumbo pasta shells, cooked

Sauce & Seasoning

• Salt, to taste
• Garlic powder, to taste
• 1 can (approx. 300 grams) cream of chicken soup
• Black pepper, to taste
• 120 millilitres whole milk

Instructions

1. Combine Filling: Combine finely chopped steamed broccoli, diced chicken, and half of the cheddar in a large bowl, ensuring an even mixture.
2. Fill Pasta Shells: Fill the shells with the chicken and broccoli mixture, then place them in a baking dish.
3. Prepare Sauce: Combine cream of chicken soup and milk in a separate bowl, stirring until smooth.
4. Assemble and Top: Pour the mixed sauce over the shells and sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top.
5. Bake: Place the dish in a preheated oven at 175°C and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted.