When it comes to cozy, satisfying meals, few dishes beat cheesy chicken & broccoli stuffed shells. This creamy, protein-packed, family-friendly pasta bake combines tender chicken, nutrient-rich broccoli, and melty cheese inside perfectly cooked jumbo shells — all smothered in a luscious sauce. It’s the perfect dish for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.

More than just delicious, this dish is also highly adaptable. With a few tweaks, this meal fits nearly any dietary preference or occasion. Craving more baked pasta? You’ll love this garlic butter shrimp scampi lasagna for something a little different.

Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells

There’s more to this dish than meets the eye — it’s as balanced as it is indulgent.

Here’s why it deserves a place in your dinner rotation:

• High in protein: Thanks to lean chicken and cheese

• Vegetable-packed: Broccoli adds fiber, vitamins, and color

• Kid-friendly: Familiar ingredients with comforting flavors

• Make-ahead & freezer-friendly: Perfect for meal prep

• Easily customizable: Works with gluten-free pasta or plant-based swaps

Ingredients and Tools for Success

Before diving into cooking, here’s everything you’ll need to make cheesy chicken & broccoli stuffed shells from scratch:

Core Ingredients:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells (cooked al dente)

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (grilled or rotisserie)

• 1½ cups cooked, chopped broccoli (fresh or frozen)

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cups Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)

• Salt, pepper, garlic powder to taste

• Olive oil for greasing the baking dish

Optional Add-ins:

• Ricotta cheese for added creaminess

• Red pepper flakes for heat

• Fresh basil or Italian seasoning

Tools:

• Large pot for boiling pasta

• Mixing bowls

• Spoon or piping bag

• 9×13″ baking dish

How to Make Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells

Making this comforting casserole is simple. Follow this step-by-step process for perfect results every time.

1. Cook the Shells

Boil pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain, rinse, and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, mix together:

• Shredded chicken

• Chopped broccoli

• 1 cup mozzarella

• ¼ cup Parmesan

• Seasoning (salt, pepper, garlic powder)

3. Fill the Shells

• Lightly grease your baking dish

• Stuff each shell with 1–2 tablespoons of filling

• Place them seam-side up in the dish

4. Add Sauce and Cheese

• Pour Alfredo sauce evenly over stuffed shells

• Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top

5. Bake

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)

• Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes

• Uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes, until bubbly and golden

Flavor Variations to Try

The beauty of cheesy chicken & broccoli stuffed shells lies in its flexibility. Here are a few exciting ways to change it up:

Tasty Twists:

• Cheddar Sauce: Try the cheddar twist, cheesier profile

• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or cooked lentils

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese and cashew Alfredo sauce

• Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes

• Whole Grain: Use whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta for added fiber

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Even easy recipes can go wrong without a few smart tips.

Watch Out For:

• Overcooking shells: They’ll fall apart during stuffing and baking. Cook just until al dente.

• Watery broccoli: Drain and pat dry before mixing in.

• Not seasoning the filling: Taste before stuffing — under-seasoned filling = bland shells.

• Dry top layer: Be generous with sauce and cover while baking to prevent drying out.

▶️ Pro Tip: For extra gooeyness, broil the top for the last 2 minutes of baking.

FAQs: Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, just chop and steam it briefly before mixing.

Can this be made ahead?
Absolutely! Assemble up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking.

Can I freeze it?
Yes — freeze unbaked shells with sauce in a covered dish. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.

What’s the best pasta shape if I don’t have jumbo shells?
You can layer the filling with cooked lasagna noodles for a “roll-up” version.

Is this kid-friendly?
Totally! It’s mild, cheesy, and packed with familiar ingredients.

How to Serve and Store

Perfect Pairings:

• Fresh green salad with vinaigrette

• Garlic bread or cheesy rolls

• Roasted carrots or asparagus

• Sparkling lemon water or iced tea

Balance the richness of your stuffed shells with a refreshing grilled chicken avocado salad.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days

• Reheat in oven or microwave (covered) until warm

• Freeze cooked shells for up to 2 months — thaw and reheat in oven

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells

Comforting, customizable, and absolutely crowd-pleasing — cheesy chicken & broccoli stuffed shells check every box. From weeknight ease to potluck favorite, this dish brings together tender chicken, hearty broccoli, and cheesy goodness in a creamy embrace that satisfies every craving.

It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a tradition. So don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds — or for you to make it again next week!

Print