Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s both comforting and nutritious, these Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are a perfect fit. Jumbo pasta shells are generously filled with a creamy mixture of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and melty cheddar cheese, then baked in a creamy sauce until bubbly and golden.

This recipe is easy to make, ideal for weeknight dinners, and fancy enough to serve to guests. Whether you’re trying to get more veggies into a meal, use up leftover chicken, or just craving a cheesy pasta bake, this one’s a total winner.

In this article, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, substitutions, and serving ideas—so you can make the most of this flavorful and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells

1. The Ultimate Comfort Food Combo

Pasta, cheese, and chicken are always a great match. Add broccoli for a burst of freshness and cream of chicken soup for that cozy, creamy texture—and you’ve got the perfect balance of hearty and wholesome.

2. Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved

This dish is rich, flavorful, and has just the right amount of veggie sneaked in. Even picky eaters will dive into these cheesy stuffed shells without hesitation.

3. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

With only a handful of ingredients—many of which you probably already have on hand—you can create something that tastes like it came from a restaurant.

4. Great for Meal Prep or Leftovers

This casserole stores and reheats beautifully. Make it ahead, freeze it, or portion it out for lunches all week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Filling:

• 12 jumbo pasta shells, cooked al dente – Jumbo shells hold the stuffing perfectly.

• 1½ cups cooked chicken, diced – Rotisserie chicken or leftovers work great.

• 1 cup broccoli, steamed and chopped – Adds color, texture, and nutrients.

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – For that cheesy, gooey filling.

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – Forms the creamy base.

• ½ cup milk – Thins the soup slightly for a pourable sauce.

For Seasoning:

• Salt, black pepper, garlic powder – To taste.

Topping:

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese – Sprinkled over the top for a melted cheesy crust.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• 1½ cups cooked, diced chicken

• 1 cup chopped steamed broccoli

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste

Mix until everything is evenly coated.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Take your cooked and slightly cooled jumbo pasta shells and gently fill them with the chicken and broccoli mixture. Place each stuffed shell in your prepared baking dish, open side up.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

• 1 can cream of chicken soup

• ½ cup milk

Pour the sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.

Let cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook shells just to al dente so they don’t fall apart when stuffing.

• Chop Broccoli Small: Smaller pieces make the filling easier to stuff and ensure even bites.

• Use Leftover Chicken: This is a perfect way to repurpose roasted or grilled chicken.

• Add Extra Sauce If Needed: For a saucier finish, increase the soup and milk slightly.

Variations and Add-Ins

Cheese Options:

• Mozzarella – For extra gooey stretch

• Monterey Jack – For a mild, creamy melt

• Parmesan – For a nutty, savory bite

Mix-Ins:

• Chopped spinach – Adds color and nutrients

• Mushrooms – Sautéed mushrooms bring extra umami

• Cooked bacon – Crumbled on top for smoky crunch

Sauce Alternatives:

• Alfredo Sauce – For a rich, garlicky twist

• Cream of broccoli soup – For a double-broccoli boost

• Bechamel Sauce – If you want to go homemade

What to Serve with Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells

These cheesy stuffed shells are filling on their own, but here are some delicious sides that pair well:

• Garlic bread or breadsticks

• Simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette

• Roasted vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts

• Fruit salad for a refreshing contrast

Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing Tips

Make-Ahead:

Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready.

Storing Leftovers:

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Reheating:

• Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes

• Or in the oven at 325°F until warmed through (about 15 minutes)

Freezing:

This recipe freezes well!

• To freeze before baking: Assemble, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

• To freeze after baking: Cool completely, wrap in portions, and freeze. Reheat in microwave or oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, canned chicken works in a pinch. Just be sure to drain it well and break it up before mixing.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely. Just steam or microwave it first, then chop and add to the filling.

Do I need to cover the dish while baking?

Nope—this recipe bakes uncovered to get a nice golden cheesy topping.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just use a larger baking dish or two smaller ones. Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Why This Recipe Works

Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells combine everything you love about a cozy casserole—cheese, pasta, and creamy sauce—with the extra bonus of vegetables and lean protein. The flavor is well-balanced, the texture is satisfying, and it’s an easy way to elevate leftover ingredients into something the whole family will devour.

It’s indulgent yet wholesome, easy to make but impressive to serve, and customizable for whatever’s in your fridge. What more could you want?

Final Thoughts

When you’re in need of a warm, cheesy, and comforting dinner that’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table, these Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are the answer. With just a little prep, you get a flavor-packed baked pasta dish that hits all the right notes.

Whether you’re feeding a family, planning make-ahead meals, or looking for something comforting to share at a potluck, this recipe delivers every single time.

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