The Ultimate Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells
Are you ready to take your weeknight dinner game to the next level? Let me introduce you to "The Ultimate Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells"! This dish is everything you dream of when you think creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious. Imagine perfectly cooked pasta shells enveloping a savory filling of tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, all swimming in a melty cheese sauce. Whether you’re cooking for the family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe promises to be a hit every single time!
What makes this dish even more special is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels gourmet but is simple enough for any home chef. Honestly, if you love comforting dishes like our popular Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Dip, you’re going to fall head over heels for stuffed shells! So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this satisfying delight that’s perfect for all ages.
What are The Ultimate Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells?
You might be wondering, why such an extravagant name for what seems to be just stuffed pasta? Well, let me tell you – these aren’t your ordinary stuffed shells. They are a cheesy hug in a shell! There’s a certain charm about stuffed pasta, isn’t there? It’s like each shell is a little vessel carrying a scrumptious surprise. And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to try something named "Ultimate Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells"? It sounds delightful, doesn’t it? You know the old saying, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”? With these delicious shells, you may just win over the hearts of all who taste them! So, why not bring joy to your dinner table by trying this recipe?
Why You’ll Love The Ultimate Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells
There are plenty of reasons to love this dish, and here are three key highlights: First, the main attraction of this recipe is the glorious balance of flavors and textures — creamy cheese, tender chicken, and crunchy broccoli make for a mouthwatering experience. Second, making these stuffed shells at home is easy on the wallet compared to takeout options, plus you’ll know exactly what goes into them. Finally, the generous layers of cheesy goodness, topped with melted mozzarella and a sprinkle of parmesan, make this dish truly special.
If you’ve enjoyed our hearty Chicken Alfredo Bake, you’re sure to appreciate how great this recipe is too! The experience is just as comforting and satisfying. So, gather your ingredients and prepare for a culinary adventure that’s not only delicious but also an expression of love through food.
How to Make The Ultimate Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells
Quick Overview
This dish is as easy as it gets! In under an hour, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to go, with a cooking time that practically flies by. Packed with cheesy flavors, tender chicken, and the nutritional bonus of broccoli, these stuffed shells are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Key Ingredients for The Ultimate Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Extra mozzarella for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
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Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli florets (steamed until tender), ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined.
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Stuff the Shells: Spoon generous amounts of the filling mixture into each pasta shell. Don’t be shy! You want to make sure they’re packed to the brim.
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Assemble the Dish: Spread half of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a large baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, then cover with the remaining sauce. Sprinkle the leftover mozzarella and parmesan on top.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Dig in and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
What to Serve The Ultimate Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells With
To complement your cheesy stuffed shells, consider serving a fresh garden salad for a bit of crunch and freshness. You can also add some garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce; after all, who’s going to argue with buttery garlic goodness? Finally, a light white wine or fizzy lemonade will pair wonderfully and add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Top Tips for Perfecting The Ultimate Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells
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Ingredient Variations: Feel free to switch out the chicken for ground turkey or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian version. You can also mix in other veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
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Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheese blends! Add some goat cheese or feta for an unexpected twist.
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Watch the Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the shells during baking to avoid overcooking. If you prefer a softer texture, you can bake them a bit longer with additional sauce layered on top.
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Don’t Overstuff: While the idea of a stuffed shell overflowing with filling is tempting, there’s a fine line. Make sure it’s full but not breaking apart when cooking!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (though let’s be honest, they’re usually all gone!), store the shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings, just remember to add a splash of water or sauce to keep them moist.
Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or savoring the leftovers, The Ultimate Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are bound to become a beloved recipe in your kitchen. Ready to give it a try? Happy cooking!
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
Method
- Boil the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli florets, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Spoon generous amounts of the filling mixture into each pasta shell.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a large baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with the remaining sauce. Sprinkle the leftover mozzarella and parmesan on top.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Dig in and enjoy!
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