Introduction
There’s something comforting about a plate filled with cheesy pasta, and when you add chicken and broccoli to the mix, you’ve got a delicious, wholesome meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are a fantastic way to enjoy a classic combination of flavors, all wrapped up in tender pasta shells. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this dish is a winner. It’s not only satisfying and rich in taste but also incredibly easy to make. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some healthy veggies into your meal without sacrificing flavor.
Recipe
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells bring together the creamy goodness of cheddar cheese, the savory bite of chicken, and the fresh taste of broccoli, all enveloped in jumbo pasta shells. The dish is topped with a creamy sauce made from cream of chicken soup and milk, making each bite wonderfully moist and flavorful. With just a 15-minute prep time and a quick 25 minutes in the oven, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave something homey and delicious.
Ingredients
To make Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells, you will need the following ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells, cooked: These are the perfect size for stuffing and hold the filling beautifully.
– 1½ cups cooked chicken, diced: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook and dice your own for a personal touch.
– 1 cup steamed broccoli, chopped: Fresh or frozen broccoli works well. Just make sure it’s chopped into small pieces.
– 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar adds a sharp, tangy flavor to complement the chicken and broccoli.
– 1 can cream of chicken soup: This provides the creamy base for the sauce, making the dish rich and moist.
– ½ cup milk: Helps to thin the soup and create a pourable sauce.
– Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste: These seasonings enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
Directions/Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare this delightful dish:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that it’s hot and ready for baking once the shells are prepared.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, chopped broccoli, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed. This will be the filling for your shells.
3. Carefully stuff each of the cooked jumbo pasta shells with the chicken and broccoli mixture. Be gentle to avoid tearing the shells, as they can be delicate once cooked.
4. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in a large baking dish. It’s important to keep them snug but not overcrowded to ensure even cooking.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and milk until smooth. This mixture should be pourable and well-blended.
6. Pour the soup mixture evenly over the stuffed shells in the baking dish. Make sure each shell gets a good amount of sauce to keep them moist during baking.
7. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the shells. This will create a gooey, cheesy topping that’s irresistibly delicious.
8. Season the dish with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Remember, a little seasoning goes a long way in enhancing the flavors.
9. Bake the dish in your preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the sauce is slightly thickened.
10. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. The shells will be hot, and the flavors will meld together beautifully as they sit.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While cheddar is recommended for its sharp flavor, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a different taste.
Q: What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
A: You can substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup. For a homemade version, make a roux with butter, flour, and chicken stock, then add cream or milk for thickness.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the sauce and cheese before popping them in the oven.
Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
A: Simply omit the chicken and add more broccoli or substitute with cooked mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Conclusion
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of cheese, chicken, and broccoli in a way that’s both satisfying and nourishing. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but also impressive enough for a special occasion. Whether you’re looking to feed your family or entertain guests, these stuffed shells are sure to be a hit. Try this recipe today and enjoy a meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Happy cooking!