There’s something deeply satisfying about gathering around the table on a chilly evening with a hearty, comforting meal bubbling fresh from the oven. That’s exactly where Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells come in—a dish that promises warmth, indulgence, and just the right touch of nostalgia.
Inspired by family dinners where stuffed shells were always the centerpiece, this recipe is a delicious twist on tradition. It merges the wholesome goodness of broccoli, the savory richness of tender chicken, and the unbeatable creaminess of cheddar cheese—all lovingly stuffed into jumbo pasta shells. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a weeknight dinner, or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is bound to become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This isn’t your average pasta dish. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot on your weekly menu:
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the cheesy, creamy filling.
- Balanced & Satisfying: With protein-packed chicken, fiber-rich broccoli, and calcium-loaded cheese, it’s a complete meal.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping in advance—just assemble and bake when ready.
- Freezer-Ready: Double the batch and freeze half for those extra busy nights.
- Simple Ingredients: No fancy pantry items—just comfort food essentials.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To bring this cheesy comfort dish to life, here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 jumbo pasta shells (cooked): These large pasta shells hold the filling beautifully.
- 1½ cups cooked chicken, diced: Great use for rotisserie chicken or leftovers.
- 1 cup steamed broccoli, chopped: Adds a healthy crunch and color.
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: For that melty, gooey finish.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup: Brings rich creaminess to the dish.
- ½ cup milk: Helps thin out the soup mixture to create a pourable sauce.
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder to taste: Essential seasonings for flavor depth.
💡 Tip: Use fresh broccoli for a crisp texture, or frozen if you’re in a pinch.
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prep Your Pasta Shells
Start by cooking your jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and lay them on a baking sheet to cool slightly, preventing them from sticking together.
2. Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to your taste.
3. Stuff the Shells
Using a spoon, gently stuff each pasta shell with the chicken and broccoli filling. Don’t overfill—they should be full but easy to close slightly.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and milk until smooth. This forms your luscious sauce base.
5. Assemble in a Baking Dish
Arrange the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish. Pour the soup mixture evenly over the shells, making sure to cover each one with a bit of sauce to keep them moist during baking.
6. Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the shells.
7. Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the dish uncovered for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serving Suggestions
These Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are satisfying on their own, but you can elevate your dinner with these simple side ideas:
- Garlic Bread: The perfect vessel for soaking up extra cheesy sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp, cool greens contrast beautifully with the warm pasta.
- Roasted Veggies: Keep it healthy and colorful with roasted carrots or green beans.
Tips for Success
1. Use Rotisserie Chicken for Speed
If you’re in a rush, a store-bought rotisserie chicken cuts down prep time significantly while adding flavor.
2. Steam Broccoli Just Until Tender
Overcooked broccoli can turn mushy. Aim for bright green and slightly crisp.
3. Add Extra Flavor
Feel free to add a pinch of Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes for heat, or even a little Dijon mustard to the sauce for extra zing.
4. Make It Ahead
You can assemble the dish a day in advance. Store covered in the fridge and bake as instructed when ready.
Recipe Variations to Try
This dish is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to mix it up:
1. Swap the Protein
Don’t have chicken on hand? Use:
- Ground turkey or beef
- Leftover turkey (perfect after Thanksgiving!)
- Vegetarian alternative like chickpeas or tofu
2. Try Different Cheeses
Experiment with:
- Mozzarella for extra melt
- Parmesan for sharpness
- Monterey Jack for a creamy touch
3. Use a Different Sauce
Instead of cream of chicken soup, try:
- Alfredo sauce for a richer version
- Cream of mushroom for earthy flavor
- Marinara for a tomato-based twist
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Refrigerator:
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Freezer:
- Assemble but do not bake.
- Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
- To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F for 45–50 minutes, covered for the first 30 minutes.
✅ Pro Tip: Freeze in individual portions for easy lunch or dinner options.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
While exact values may vary, here’s an estimate per serving:
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
This dish provides a solid balance of protein, carbs, and fat, making it satisfying enough to be a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta shells and a gluten-free cream of chicken soup. Many brands offer both options now.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms would all work well in the filling.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
While it’s best baked for that cheesy top layer, you can layer the shells and sauce in a slow cooker and cook on low for 3–4 hours if needed.
Perfect for Every Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, preparing a freezer meal for a new parent, or just looking for a comforting dinner after a long day, this Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells recipe delivers every time. It’s that special blend of homestyle cooking and modern convenience that makes it a hit no matter the crowd.
Final Thoughts
We all need those dependable, heartwarming recipes that feel like a hug in a dish. This one checks every box: it’s easy, filling, family-approved, and endlessly adaptable. The creamy sauce, melty cheese, and savory chicken will keep everyone coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds.
So next time you’re wondering what to cook on a weeknight or want to impress without stress, remember this recipe. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to fall in love with Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells.
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Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 12 jumbo pasta shells (cooked)
- 1½ cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup steamed broccoli, chopped
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup milk
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix chicken, broccoli, and 1 cup cheddar in a bowl.
- Stuff the cooked shells with the mixture.
- In another bowl, whisk soup and milk. Pour over shells in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for 25 minutes. Serve hot.