Incredible Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells for Comfort

There’s something about the aroma of melted cheese mingling with tender chicken and fresh broccoli that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Imagine diving into a bowl of Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells while your taste buds dance with joy, savoring every creamy, cheesy bite. delicious Broccoli Cheese Soup This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience wrapped in comfort.

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Growing up, my mom would whip this up on chilly evenings when we needed a pick-me-up. The way she would layer on the cheese was practically an art form. Family gathered around the table, laughter echoing as we devoured every last shell—those moments are forever etched in my memory. low-carb broccoli salad Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, the spectacular flavor explosion of Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells is bound to impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
• Fresh Broccoli Florets: Opt for bright green florets; they add not only nutrition but also vibrant color to your dish.
• Medium Pasta Shells: These little pasta pockets are perfect for holding all that cheesy goodness.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Go for sharp cheddar; it offers a robust flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken and broccoli.
• Heavy Cream: This is where the magic happens! It creates that luscious sauce that coats everything perfectly.

For the Sauce:

• Garlic Powder: A must-have for adding depth; fresh garlic works too if you’re feeling fancy!
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all those delicious flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells:

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Meanwhile, chop your chicken into bite-sized pieces and season them generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Once the water is boiling like it’s auditioning for a role in a cooking show, add in those medium pasta shells. Cook them according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

While your pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in your seasoned chicken pieces and sauté them until golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes should do!

Step 4: Add in the Broccoli

At this point, add fresh broccoli florets into the skillet with the chicken. Cook together for another couple of minutes until they’re tender yet still vibrant—nobody likes sad-looking veggies. shrimp and broccoli skillet.

Step 5: Create Your Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat and pour in heavy cream along with garlic powder, stirring gently to combine everything together. Let it simmer for about two minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Combine It All

Drain your pasta shells once they’re done cooking and fold them into your skillet mixture. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over everything and stir until every shell is enveloped in cheesy goodness.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Now you’re ready to dig into this delightful dish! Just imagine sitting down at your table—fork in one hand, a glass of wine (or juice) in the other—as you enjoy each creamy bite of Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells while reminiscing about good times past or dreaming up new ones ahead! creamy cheesy corn.

Perfecting Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, which locks in those juicy flavors. Meanwhile, cook the pasta to al dente perfection, and prepare your creamy cheese sauce. Combine everything at the end for a delightful dish.

Add Your Touch to Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells

Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu if you’re feeling adventurous! Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack, and toss in some sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for extra flair.

Storing & Reheating Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

Cooking pasta slightly undercooked (al dente) helps it absorb more sauce without getting mushy when baked.

Don’t skip seasoning your chicken during the searing process; it enhances flavor and ensures every bite is deliciously seasoned.

For added creaminess, reserve some pasta cooking water before draining—it’s liquid gold that can elevate your sauce!

Sometimes I serve this dish with a side salad, and my friends rave about how they can’t believe they ate everything on their plates!

FAQs About Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells

What is Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells?

Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells is a comforting casserole dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta shells in a creamy cheese sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights as it is both filling and flavorful. The combination of cheese and chicken creates a rich texture that kids and adults alike will love. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some vegetables while satisfying your craving for comfort food. For more inspiration, check out this crispy chicken alfredo recipe.

How do I make Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells?

Making Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells is straightforward. Start by cooking your pasta shells until al dente. In a separate pan, sauté chicken pieces until cooked through, then add broccoli florets for just a few minutes until tender. Combine these with the cooked shells and mix in a creamy cheese sauce made from your favorite cheeses and seasonings. Bake the mixture until bubbly and golden on top for the perfect finishing touch.

Can I customize my Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells?

Absolutely! You can easily customize your Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells based on personal preferences or dietary needs. Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, you can use different vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to enhance the nutritional profile of the dish. Experimenting with various cheeses can also yield delightful flavors.

How can I store leftovers of Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells?

To store leftovers of your Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, ensure that the dish is heated thoroughly to maintain flavor and texture. Adding a splash of milk while reheating can help restore creaminess.

Conclusion for Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells

In summary, Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells is a delightful meal packed with flavor and nutrition. This easy-to-make casserole combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and cheesy goodness all in one dish. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it at gatherings, this recipe will surely impress everyone at the table. Don’t hesitate to personalize it according to your taste; you’ll find endless options to enjoy this classic comfort food! For more inspiration, check out this chicken enchiladas recipe.

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Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells

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• Author: Annika Weber
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells is a delightful comfort food that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta shells enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this dish promises to satisfy your cravings with every cheesy bite. Easy to make and customizable, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 8 oz medium pasta shells
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Boil salted water in a large pot.
2. 2. Chop chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
3. 3. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes).
4. 4. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté seasoned chicken in olive oil until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
5. 5. Add broccoli and cook for another 2 minutes until tender.
6. 6. Reduce heat, stir in heavy cream and garlic powder, simmer for 2 minutes.
7. 7. Drain pasta shells; combine them with the chicken-broccoli mixture and sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.
8. 8. Mix gently until well combined and serve immediately.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 510
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 37g
• Cholesterol: 105mg