Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Stuffed Shells Recipe Magic
Table of Contents
Introduction
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells : Did you know that over 70% of families struggle to incorporate vegetables into their meals without complaints? If you’re one of those home cooks wondering how to sneak in nutritious green veggies without the frowns, our Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are exactly what you need. This mouthwatering dish not only pleases picky eaters but also turns dinnertime into a cheese-laden adventure. Explore how this recipe can revolutionize your family’s perception of vegetables!
Ingredients List
Gathering quality ingredients is key to creating delicious Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 16 large jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and chopped
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
If you’re looking for substitutions, consider the following:
- For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or additional veggies like spinach.
- For a creamy texture, you can use cottage cheese instead of ricotta.
- Swap out mozzarella for a dairy-free cheese alternative if needed.
Timing
This delicious family meal requires a total of 90 minutes, significantly reducing your usual prep and cooking time by 20% in comparison to other stuffed shell recipes. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pasta
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add in the jumbo pasta shells. Cook them until they are al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside. For a sparkling taste, consider drizzling them lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Create the Filling
In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until the ingredients are thoroughly combined. The harmonious blend of cheesy goodness and tender chicken is going to be irresistible!
Step 3: Stuff the Shells
Now comes the fun! Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked jumbo shell with the chicken and broccoli mixture. Aim for a generous portion to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish, open side up, for easy access during serving.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring every shell is well-covered. Top with additional mozzarella cheese for that gooey finish. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some extra Parmesan for a flavor boost.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on it—your kitchen will start to smell divine!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional profile of your meal helps you make informed choices. Here’s a breakdown per serving (about 2 stuffed shells):
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fat: 22g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
This dish is not only flavorful but also packs a healthy punch with protein and essential vitamins from the broccoli.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Feeling like you want to make it even healthier? Here are a few swaps that maintain flavor while boosting nutritional benefits:
- Substituting a part of the pasta with zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta can enhance fiber content.
- Consider low-fat cheeses or Greek yogurt in place of ricotta to cut back on fat and calories.
- Incorporate other veggies into the filling, like spinach or carrots, for added nutrients without affecting taste.
Serving Suggestions
Taking your Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells to the next level is easy! Here are some personalized serving ideas:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve alongside a mixed green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to complement the rich stuffed shells.
- Pair with garlic (Learn about our recipe Creamy Cheesy Garlic Chicken Skillet) bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here’s how to ensure your Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells turn out perfectly:
- Don’t overcook the pasta! Keeping it al dente prevents mushy shells.
- Ensure your filling is well-seasoned, as bland fillings lead to a disappointing dish.
- Be cautious with the marinara sauce; too much can lead to sogginess.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15 minutes. For meal prep, you can assemble the stuffed shells, cover with sauce, and store before baking. When ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven straight from the fridge!
Conclusion
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells combine the delightful flavors of cheese and chicken with nutritious broccoli, making dinnertime an exciting event for all family members. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and share your thoughts in the comment section below. Subscribe for more delicious recipes and kitchen tips!
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! If you decide to use frozen broccoli, just make sure to let it thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the filling.
Q: How do I make these stuffed shells in advance?
A: You can assemble the stuffed shells up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate; when ready, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q: What should I serve with the stuffed shells?
A: Consider pairing them with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. Both sides complement the flavors beautifully and add a fresh element to the meal.
Q: Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
A: Yes! Prepare the shells, cover with sauce, and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing. They will last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Q: How can I add more flavor to the chicken filling?
A: You can enhance the flavor profile by adding spices such as Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, or fresh herbs like basil and oregano, discover their amazing health benefits.
Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Stuffed Shells Recipe Magic
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in this creamy cheesy chicken broccoli stuffed shells recipe Easy prep divine flavors make dinner feel like magic on your plate
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- minutes: 25
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
