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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Stuffed Shells

These Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Stuffed Shells are a comforting, cheesy weeknight winner with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and melty cheeses wrapped in jumbo pasta shells.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Broccoli, Cheesy, Chicken, Comfort Food, Easy, Pasta
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 12 jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
  • 1 cup broccoli florets steamed
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  • Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 jumbo pasta shells and cook until just al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes (follow package directions). Drain and set aside on a lightly greased baking sheet to prevent sticking.
  • While the pasta cooks, steam the broccoli florets until bright green and fork-tender, about 4-5 minutes. Use a steamer basket over boiling water or microwave in a covered dish with a splash of water. Once done, chop the steamed broccoli into smaller pieces for easier stuffing.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well incorporated and creamy.
  • Gently fill each cooked pasta shell with a generous spoonful of the cheesy chicken broccoli mixture. Place the filled shells seam side up in a baking dish that’s been spread with a thin layer of marinara sauce.
  • Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
  • Remove the foil and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness!

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Baking dish (9 x 13-inch recommended)
  • Steamer basket or microwave-safe bowl
  • Slotted spoon or tongs
  • Aluminum Foil

Notes

  • This recipe freezes well; assemble but do not bake before freezing. Bake covered at 375°F for 45-50 minutes when ready.
  • Substitute broccoli with asparagus, zucchini, kale, or spinach for seasonal variation.
  • Use leftover rotisserie chicken or poach chicken breasts for a quick protein option.