Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Shells

Looking for a comforting and delicious meal to satisfy your hunger and soothe your soul? Look no further than these Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells. Picture tender pasta shells stuffed with diced chicken, diced broccoli, and a luscious blend of Parmesan and cheddar cheeses, all smothered in creamy alfredo sauce. This dish is the epitome of cozy, homemade goodness that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

I first whipped up these Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells on a whim after a hectic day, and they quickly became a family favorite. The sight of bubbly, golden cheese and the aroma of chicken mingling with broccoli never fail to bring smiles to our faces. It’s amazing how a simple combination of ingredients can create such a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Whether you’re looking to use up leftover chicken, craving a hearty pasta bake, or simply want to enjoy a comforting dish, these Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells have got you covered. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to dig into a delightful meal that will warm your heart and fill your belly.

Quick Benefits

• Convenient Use of Leftovers: Perfect for using up leftover chicken and creating a delicious new dish.
• Versatile Adaptations: Easily adaptable with different proteins like turkey or ham, and additional veggies for variety.
• Make-ahead and Freezer-friendly: Great for meal prep as leftovers taste even better the next day, and can be frozen for future quick meals.
• Family-friendly and Comforting: A cozy, cheesy dish that appeals to all ages, making it a hit for family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Shells Recipe

• Easy Weeknight Meal: Perfect for feeding a crowd on busy nights or using up leftover chicken.
• Comforting and Cozy: The melty cheese, soft chicken, and broccoli create a warm and satisfying dish.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the cheesy goodness, turning broccoli into a magical treat.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can swap the chicken for turkey or ham, add more veggies, or experiment with different cheeses and sauce variations.
• Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: Prepare ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for a convenient meal option.
• Customizable Sides: Pair with a crunchy green salad, garlic bread, roasted carrots, or cucumbers for a well-rounded meal.
• Crunchy Texture: Add toasted breadcrumbs for extra crunch during the final minutes of baking.
• Homemade Twist: Customize the dish by making your own white or cream sauce instead of using store-bought alfredo.
• Brings Smiles to the Table: A delicious and comforting dish that is sure to please and create happy faces around the dinner table.

Ingredients for Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Shells

Main Components

• 24 jumbo pasta shells
• 425 grams alfredo sauce, divided
• 100 grams shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 25 grams shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups (about 250 grams) diced frozen broccoli, thawed
• 2 cups (about 280 grams) diced cooked chicken

Pro Tips for Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Shells

To make the cheesy chicken broccoli shells even more flavorful, consider adding some garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning to the alfredo sauce for a boost of taste. Additionally, topping the dish with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese before baking can create a delicious cheesy crust that adds a nice texture to each bite. For a healthier twist, try using whole wheat pasta shells or a lighter alfredo sauce to reduce the calorie content without sacrificing the creamy goodness of the dish.

When cooking the pasta shells, be sure to slightly undercook them as they will continue to cook in the oven. This helps prevent the shells from becoming mushy and ensures a perfect texture in the final dish. To make prep easier, consider using a rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time. Additionally, incorporating some sautéed onions or bell peppers into the filling can add extra depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness to balance out the cheesiness.

How to Make Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Shells

Step 1: Bake

Place the dish in the oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and gooey.

Step 2: Add Topping

Spread the reserved alfredo sauce over the stuffed pasta shells, then sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top to cover evenly.

Step 3: Fill Pasta Shells

Spoon the chicken and broccoli cheese mixture into the cooled shells and arrange them closely together in a greased baking dish.

Step 4: Prepare Filling

Set aside 120 milliliters of alfredo sauce. Combine remaining sauce with cooked chicken, chopped broccoli, 75 grams cheddar, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.

Step 5: Cook Pasta Shells

Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside until ready to use.

Step 6: Prepare Oven and Dish

Preheat oven to 180°C. Grease a 33×23 cm pan with cooking spray.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared and enjoyed the cheesy chicken broccoli shells, store any leftovers by covering them and placing them in the refrigerator. The dish can be stored this way for up to three days, allowing the flavors to meld even further. The pasta shells tend to taste even better after soaking up the sauce overnight.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked shells by placing them in a freezer-safe container. When you are ready to enjoy them again, thaw the shells in the refrigerator and reheat them with some extra sauce on top to prevent them from drying out. This dish is versatile, so feel free to experiment with different proteins like turkey or cooked ham, or make it vegetarian by adding more broccoli and other veggies like sautéed spinach or mushrooms. Consider using different cheese varieties or making a homemade white or cream sauce for a fresh twist on the flavor profile.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian version of this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells recipe, you can easily swap the diced cooked chicken with additional diced broccoli, sautéed spinach, or mushrooms. This substitution will provide a hearty and flavorful alternative for those who prefer a meatless option.

If you want to experiment with different cheeses, feel free to replace the Parmesan and cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or mozzarella. These cheeses will offer a unique flavor profile while still maintaining the gooey, cheesy goodness that makes this dish so comforting.

To make this recipe even more versatile, try using turkey or cooked ham instead of chicken for a different protein option. Both meats will provide a delicious twist to the dish while still delivering the same satisfying flavors. Feel free to get creative with ingredient substitutions to tailor the recipe to your preferences or dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion with the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells, try presenting them in individual mini cast-iron skillets or ramekins. This not only adds a rustic touch to the dish but also keeps each serving warm and gooey until the very last bite. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

To elevate the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells even further, consider topping each serving with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of crispy bacon crumbles for added flavor and texture contrast. Serving the pasta alongside a refreshing arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette will bring a perfect balance to the richness of the dish, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

FAQs for Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Shells

Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or mozzarella to give the dish a unique flavor.

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Yes, you can easily swap the chicken for turkey, cooked ham, or even make it vegetarian by adding more broccoli and sautéed spinach or mushrooms.

How should I store the leftovers?

Simply cover any leftovers and store them in the fridge for up to three days. For freezing, place the cooled shells in a freezer-safe container, thaw in the fridge, then reheat with extra sauce on top.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish ahead of time, cover it, and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it for a convenient meal prep option.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells becomes a staple in your home, just like it has in mine! The warmth of the melted cheese, the tenderness of the chicken, and the vibrant green broccoli all combine to create a dish that brings comfort and joy to any mealtime.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own by trying different variations. Whether you switch up the protein, add more veggies, or play around with different types of cheese, there are endless ways to customize these Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells to suit your taste buds.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to put smiles on the faces of everyone around your table. Here’s to many cozy and heartwarming meals ahead with these Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells!

Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Shells

Creamy chicken, broccoli, and pasta shells baked with a blend of Parmesan and cheddar cheese – a cozy and crowd-pleasing weeknight dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time20 Minutes

Cook Time20 Minutes

Total Time40 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings6 Servings (24 filled pasta shells)

Ingredients

Main Components

• 24 jumbo pasta shells
• 425 grams alfredo sauce, divided
• 100 grams shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 25 grams shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups (about 250 grams) diced frozen broccoli, thawed
• 2 cups (about 280 grams) diced cooked chicken

Instructions

1. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and gooey.
2. Add Topping: Spread the reserved alfredo sauce over the stuffed pasta shells, then sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top to cover evenly.
3. Fill Pasta Shells: Spoon the chicken and broccoli cheese mixture into the cooled shells and arrange them closely together in a greased baking dish.
4. Prepare Filling: Set aside 120 milliliters of alfredo sauce. Combine remaining sauce with cooked chicken, chopped broccoli, 75 grams cheddar, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
5. Cook Pasta Shells: Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside until ready to use.
6. Prepare Oven and Dish: Preheat oven to 180°C. Grease a 33×23 cm pan with cooking spray.