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Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells


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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender chicken and broccoli. This easy pasta bake is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, with a homemade cheese sauce that coats every shell in rich, indulgent flavor. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead and freezer-friendly meal for busy families.


Ingredients

12 oz large pasta shells

2 cups cooked chicken, diced

1 cup broccoli florets, steamed

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups milk

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook Pasta – Boil the pasta shells according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics – In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Make Roux – Sprinkle in flour, stirring constantly, and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
  5. Create Sauce – Gradually add milk, whisking to remove lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened (about 3-4 minutes).
  6. Melt Cheese – Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
  7. Add Chicken & Broccoli – Mix in diced chicken and steamed broccoli.
  8. Combine with Pasta – Gently fold in cooked pasta shells until evenly coated.
  9. Bake – Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden.

Notes

Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and swap flour with cornstarch.

Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave in intervals, stirring to maintain creaminess.

Customizations: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for variety.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Pasta
  • Method: Baking, Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 servings
  • Calories: 450 kcal