Introduction
Looking for a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a family dinner? These Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Stuffed Shells are rich, satisfying, and packed with delicious ingredients that everyone will love. Stuffed with a creamy mixture of chicken, broccoli, and cheese, then smothered in a savory sauce, this dish will quickly become a household favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
300 g large pasta shells
450 g cooked chicken breast, shredded
300 g broccoli florets, steamed and chopped
200 g ricotta cheese
100 g mozzarella cheese, shredded
75 g Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
250 ml creamy Alfredo sauce
1 egg, beaten
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, beaten egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish.
4. Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken and broccoli mixture, and place them seam-side up in the baking dish.
5. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, covering them well.
6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for baking.
Cook the pasta
Cook the large pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain and set them aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, steamed and chopped broccoli florets, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, beaten egg, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined, creating a creamy and flavorful filling.
Prepare the baking dish
Spread a thin layer of creamy Alfredo sauce at the bottom of a large baking dish to prevent the shells from sticking and to add extra flavor.
Stuff the shells
Carefully take each cooked pasta shell and stuff it with the chicken and broccoli mixture. Place the stuffed shells seam-side up in the prepared baking dish, arranging them snugly.
Add the sauce
Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring that they are well covered to keep them moist while baking.
Bake covered
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Bake uncovered
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes. This will let the cheese melt and bubble, giving the dish a delicious golden finish.
Cool and garnish
Once done, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to avoid burns. Before serving, garnish the cheesy stuffed shells with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Notes
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Ingredient substitutions
Feel free to swap out the chicken for shredded turkey or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian-friendly option. You can also use different types of cheese based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Customizations
For added flavor, consider mixing in some diced onions or bell peppers into the filling, or spices for heat if desired.
Cook Techniques
Boiling Pasta
Cook the large pasta shells in boiling water until al dente, following the package instructions. This ensures they are firm enough to hold the filling without breaking.
Steaming Broccoli
Steam the broccoli florets until tender, then chop them finely. Steaming helps retain their vibrant color and nutritional value.
Mixing Fillings
In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, various cheeses, garlic, and seasonings. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated for a flavorful filling.
Stuffing Shells
Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the chicken and broccoli mixture. Ensure each shell is filled generously to enjoy the flavors in every bite.
Baking
Layer the Alfredo sauce in the baking dish before placing the stuffed shells. Cover with foil while baking to keep the moisture in, and remove the foil towards the end for a bubbly cheese topping.
FAQ
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes, leftover rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe and saves time on cooking.
What other vegetables can I add to the filling?
You can add spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking.
What can I substitute for Alfredo sauce?
You can use marinara sauce or a homemade cream sauce as an alternative to Alfredo sauce if preferred.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Stuffed Shells are the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, making them an ideal choice for family dinners. With their creamy filling and delicious sauce, they are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Easy to prepare and bake, this dish will not only satisfy hunger but also bring everyone together at the table.
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Consider swapping the chicken and broccoli with a mix of sautéed spinach and ricotta cheese for a vegetarian option that is equally creamy and satisfying.
Ground Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells
For a lighter alternative, use ground turkey instead of chicken paired with fresh spinach and a hint of garlic for a delicious twist.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
Spice things up by mixing shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and cream cheese. Top with blue cheese crumbles for a zesty flavor kick.
Italian Sausage and Peppers Stuffed Shells
Use Italian sausage and roasted bell peppers for a hearty filling that enhances the flavors of the remaining ingredients.
Pesto Chicken Stuffed Shells
Incorporate basil pesto into the chicken and cheese mixture for a fresh, herbaceous twist that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.
Mushroom and Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Add sautéed mushrooms to the chicken and cheese mixture for an earthy flavor that complements the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
Garden Veggie Stuffed Shells
Incorporate various vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots to create a colorful, nutritious filling that can be customized to your liking.
