Introduction
Broccoli Chicken Cheesy Shells combine hearty comfort food with a boost of veggies, making them a family favorite that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Jumbo pasta shells are stuffed with a cheesy mix of cooked chicken, tender broccoli, and rich cheddar and Parmesan, then baked in creamy Alfredo sauce until everything is bubbly and golden. The result is a casserole that feels indulgent but gives you protein and greens in every comforting bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort food with a twist: Classic cheesy pasta meets chicken and broccoli for a more balanced meal.
- Kid-approved: The creamy sauce and melted cheese make even picky eaters happy.
- Make-ahead friendly: You can prep and assemble ahead, then bake when needed.
- Great for using leftovers: Rotisserie or leftover chicken works perfectly.
- Freezer-friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for quick dinners later.
Ingredients (Makes ~6 servings)
- Jumbo pasta shells (uncooked)
- Cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, well-drained)
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- Alfredo sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Garlic powder (optional)
- Olive oil or cooking spray (to grease the baking dish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta Shells
Cook the jumbo pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water until they are just al dente. They should still have a little bite, because they’ll finish cooking in the oven. Drain them carefully and set aside to cool slightly so you can handle them. - Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped or shredded cooked chicken, broccoli florets, most of the shredded cheddar cheese (reserving some for the top), and the grated Parmesan. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Mix well so all components are evenly distributed. - Assemble the Shells
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. Take each cooked shell and spoon a generous amount of the chicken-broccoli filling into the cavity. Place the stuffed shells upright or side-by-side in the dish, depending on the shape and size. - Pour the Sauce
Pour the Alfredo sauce evenly over the filled shells. Make sure the sauce seeps between shells to coat the filling and the pasta well. This will help everything stay moist and meld flavors together as it bakes. - Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the shells for a nice cheesy crust once baked. - Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at about 350°F (175°C) for around 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown. - Rest Before Serving
After taking the dish out of the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes serving easier. - Serve
Serve warm, ideally with a simple green salad or garlic bread. These cheesy shells are rich and comforting — they pair well with something light on the side.
Tips & Tricks
- Use day-old or cooled pasta as it holds up better when stuffed.
- Steam or blanch the broccoli before mixing so it’s tender but still vibrant.
- Make sure chicken is well-cooked and dry (not wet) to prevent extra moisture in the filling.
- Scrape any sauce that ends up on the sides while assembling, so it doesn’t burn in the oven.
- Cover the baking dish with foil during the first part of baking if the top is browning too quickly, then remove the foil to let cheese crisp up.
Variations & Options
- Vegetable variation: Add in finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more veggies.
- Different sauces: Instead of Alfredo sauce, use cream-of-chicken soup for a different creamy base.
- Cheese swap: Use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican-blend cheese instead of cheddar.
- Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the filling for heat.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta shells to make the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it well and drain any excess water before mixing into the filling.
What chicken works best?
Rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or even poached chicken work great. The key is that it’s already cooked and diced.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm and bubbly, or gently in the microwave with a splash of extra sauce or milk to keep it creamy.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes — assemble the shells, cover tightly, and freeze. Thaw in the fridge and bake again when ready; you may need to add a few extra minutes of baking time.
Final Thoughts
Broccoli & Chicken Cheesy Shells are a comfort-food casserole that manages to be both hearty and fresh. The combination of chicken, broccoli, and cheese tucked inside pasta shells is classic, but the creamy Alfredo sauce makes it feel special. Whether you’re cooking for your family, making a meal ahead, or feeding a crowd, this dish is reliable, delicious, and totally satisfying.