Introduction
The art of creating a delicious meal often lies in combining familiar ingredients in new and exciting ways. One such delightful culinary creation is Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells. This dish is a perfect blend of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheese, all nestled within jumbo pasta shells. It’s a comforting, hearty meal that will surely become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining guests, these stuffed shells deliver flavor and satisfaction in every bite.
Recipe: A Brief Description
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells offer a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes. The rich and creamy filling of chicken and broccoli is encased in jumbo pasta shells, topped with a generous amount of cheese, and baked to perfection. The result is a dish that is both visually appealing and incredibly tasty. With a balance of protein, vegetables, and carbs, this meal is not only delicious but also nutritious. The creamy cheese sauce that envelopes the shells adds a luscious texture and flavor, making each bite a delightful experience.
Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering dish, you will need the following ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells, cooked according to package instructions
– 1½ cups cooked chicken, diced
– 1 cup steamed broccoli, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1½ cups marinara sauce
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions/Instructions
1. **Prepare the Pasta Shells**: Begin by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside to cool.
2. **Cook the Chicken and Broccoli**: If you haven’t already, cook the chicken and dice it into small pieces. Likewise, steam the broccoli until tender and chop it into small, bite-sized pieces.
3. **Make the Cheese Filling**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, ½ cup of mozzarella cheese, ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese, and the beaten egg. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
4. **Combine the Filling Ingredients**: Add the diced chicken and chopped broccoli to the cheese mixture. Stir until the chicken and broccoli are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
5. **Stuff the Shells**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take one pasta shell at a time and fill it with a generous spoonful of the chicken and broccoli mixture. Place each stuffed shell into a baking dish.
6. **Add the Sauce and Cheese**: Once all the shells are stuffed and arranged in the baking dish, pour the marinara sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the sauce, covering the shells completely.
7. **Bake the Dish**: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. **Serve and Garnish**: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
FAQ
1. **Can I use a different type of cheese?**
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are recommended for their flavor and meltability, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a different taste profile.
2. **Can I make this dish ahead of time?**
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it chilled until you’re ready to bake.
3. **What can I serve with Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells?**
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. A side of roasted vegetables would also complement the flavors nicely.
4. **Can I freeze leftover stuffed shells?**
Certainly! You can freeze cooked stuffed shells by placing them in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven until heated through. Alternatively, you can freeze the shells before baking and cook them directly from the freezer, adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
5. **Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?**
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the filling.
Conclusion
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are a delightful dish that brings together the best of comfort food with a touch of elegance. The combination of tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy cheese all wrapped in pasta shells makes for a meal that is both hearty and satisfying. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. So why not gather your ingredients and give it a try? Once you experience the delicious flavors and comforting textures, these stuffed shells will surely become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!