Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells

This cheesy chicken and broccoli stuffed shells recipe transforms ordinary pasta into an extraordinary comfort food experience. The jumbo shells cradle a savory mixture of tender chicken and nutritious broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce that bubbles to golden perfection in the oven.

I first created this recipe when trying to use up leftover rotisserie chicken. My picky eaters not only cleaned their plates but asked for seconds. Now it appears on our dinner table at least twice a month.

Ingredients

• Jumbo pasta shells: Provide the perfect vessel for holding the flavorful filling
• Cooked chicken: Adds lean protein and works beautifully with leftover rotisserie chicken
• Steamed broccoli: Brings nutrition and color; choose florets with vibrant green color
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Creates the gooey richness; use sharp cheddar for more flavor
• Cream of chicken soup: Forms the base of the sauce without requiring a separate roux
• Milk: Thins the sauce to the perfect consistency; whole milk creates the creamiest result
• Salt, pepper, and garlic powder: Enhance flavors without overpowering

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

Combine the diced chicken, chopped broccoli, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar in a large mixing bowl. Ensure the broccoli pieces are small enough to fit inside the shells. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the flavors.

Stuff the Shells:

Take each cooked jumbo shell and gently open it with your fingers. Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of the chicken-broccoli mixture into each shell. Place the stuffed shells in a greased 9x13 baking dish, open side up.

Create the Sauce:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and milk until smooth and well combined. The consistency should be pourable but not too thin. Pour this sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring each one gets coated.

Add Final Cheese Layer:

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the entire dish. Make sure to distribute it evenly for a beautiful golden crust after baking.

Bake to Perfection:

Place the baking dish in a preheated 350°F oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbling around the edges. For an extra golden top, broil for the final 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

The secret to this dish is in the quality of the cheese. I splurge on a good block of sharp cheddar and grate it myself rather than using pre-shredded varieties. The texture melts more smoothly, and the flavor is noticeably richer. My grandmother always said, "Never skimp on cheese," and this recipe proves her right.

Make-Ahead Magic

These stuffed shells are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking stage, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold. This has saved my dinnertime sanity countless times during hectic weeks.

Smart Substitutions

This recipe welcomes adaptations based on what you have available. Turkey works wonderfully in place of chicken. Spinach, kale, or cauliflower can substitute for broccoli. For a more decadent version, mix in 4 ounces of cream cheese to the filling. Facing dietary restrictions? Gluten-free jumbo shells exist, though they may require gentler handling during the stuffing process.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed shells pair beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a complete meal, add garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce. When serving for company, transfer the shells to a decorative serving dish and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

These stuffed shells are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combine comfort, nutrition, and flavor in every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of your favorite cheeses for variety.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells, cover them, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.

→ Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Certainly! Assemble the shells without baking, place them in a freezer-safe dish, and cover tightly. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Feel free to include other cooked and chopped vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to boost the flavor and nutrition.