Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells
Ingredients:
20 jumbo pasta shells (cook a few extra in case of breakage)
2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
2 cups steamed broccoli florets (chopped into small pieces)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
1 cup ricotta or cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
2 cups heavy cream or whole milk
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
½ tsp paprika (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shells:
Cook pasta shells in salted water until al dente.
Drain and set aside on a tray to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Filling:
In a bowl, combine chopped chicken, broccoli, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, and ricotta or cream cheese (if using).
Season with salt, pepper, and a little garlic or paprika if desired.
Mix well and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Stir in flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes to make a roux.
Slowly add cream or milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
Add cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Assemble:
Pour a layer of cheese sauce into the bottom of a baking dish.
Stuff each shell with the chicken and broccoli filling.
Place stuffed shells in the baking dish.
Pour remaining cheese sauce over the top.
Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake:
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Comfort food just got fancier! These creamy, cheesy stuffed shells with chicken and broccoli are everything you need for a cozy dinner. Full of flavor, easy to make, and totally family-approved!
