Irresistible Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells

There’s something magical about the combination of cheesy goodness and tender chicken nestled inside giant pasta shells. Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are not just a meal; they’re an experience that sings comfort food. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as they bake, drawing everyone in like moths to a flame, and trust me, it’s a delicious flame.

Picture this: It’s a chilly Friday evening, and you’re craving something hearty. You’ve got a mountain of broccoli in your fridge begging for attention, and what better way to bring it to life than stuffing it into creamy, cheesy pasta? These stuffed shells are perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing unsuspecting guests who think you slaved all day (but we both know that’s our little secret).

I still remember the first time I made these stuffed shells. My kids were hesitant at first—their faces said, “What is this alien food?” But once they took that first bite, their expressions changed from skepticism to pure joy. I felt like a culinary superhero that night.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Jumbo Pasta Shells: These large shells are perfect for holding all the cheesy goodness inside.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts but adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.
• Fresh Broccoli: Bright green florets add color and nutrition; chop them finely for even cooking.
• Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese gives a rich texture; opt for whole-milk ricotta for extra creaminess.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Of course, because who doesn’t love gooey melted cheese?
• Parmesan Cheese: For that nutty flavor; freshly grated is always best.
• Garlic Powder: Essential for adding depth; fresh garlic can be used if you prefer stronger flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings everything together beautifully.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste; always essential in balancing flavors.
• Olive Oil: Use this to sauté the chicken and add richness to the filling.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells

Cook the Pasta Shells: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add the jumbo shells and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside on a baking sheet so they don’t stick together.

Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the pan. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 6-7 minutes per side.

Prepare the Filling: Once cooked, let the chicken rest before shredding it into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with chopped broccoli, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Stuff the Shells: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully spoon generous amounts of filling into each cooked shell. Place them seam-side up in a greased baking dish.

Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour marinara sauce over the filled shells ensuring they are covered completely. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top for that beautiful cheesy crust.

Bake Until Golden: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top—this is where magic happens.

And voila. Your Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are ready to be devoured. Serve them hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you want to feel fancy.

Cooking is not just about following instructions; it’s also about enjoying every moment in your kitchen sanctuary. So put on your favorite playlist—preferably one with lots of throwbacks—and have fun with this recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta shells until al dente, then prepare the filling while they cool. This keeps everything organized and ensures each shell is perfectly stuffed.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for ground turkey or add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra zing. Personalizing this dish makes it uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for optimal texture.

Creating these Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells always brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter and delicious food filled the air.

FAQ

Can I use frozen broccoli in my stuffed shells?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well; just thaw and drain excess water before mixing.

What can I serve with Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells?

A simple side salad or garlic bread complements this dish beautifully.

How do I make these shells ahead of time?

Prepare the stuffed shells, cover with sauce, and refrigerate overnight before baking.