Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells: Comfort Food Meets Weeknight Ease
If you’re looking for the perfect comfort food that balances rich flavor with a touch of healthy green, look no further than Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells. This delicious dish takes classic stuffed pasta shells and gives them a hearty, family-friendly twist with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy cheese filling that’s hard to resist.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or prepping for a cozy weekend meal, this recipe brings together the creamy, cheesy goodness you crave with the convenience of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the cheesy, savory filling.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the shells ahead of time and bake when ready.
Great for Leftovers: Tastes just as good reheated the next day.
A Balanced Bite: Includes protein, veggies, and dairy in every shell.
Ingredients
Jumbo pasta shells
Cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
Steamed broccoli florets, finely chopped
Cream cheese
Ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Parmesan cheese, grated
Garlic powder
Salt & pepper
Your favorite Alfredo sauce or a homemade white sauce
How to Make Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells
1. Cook the Shells:
Start by boiling the jumbo pasta shells until al dente. Drain and let them cool slightly so they’re easier to handle.
2. Make the Filling:
In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, cream cheese, ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, and seasonings. Stir until creamy and well combined.
3. Stuff the Shells:
Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each shell with a generous amount of the chicken and broccoli mixture.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Spread a layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top, then drizzle with more sauce and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella.
