If you’re on the hunt for a quick and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love, look no further than this Chicken Broccoli Shells recipe. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, all while sneaking in some greens. Plus, it’s all done in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Let’s dive right in.
Table of Contents
Total Time
Prep: 15 min
Bake: 30 min
Makes: 7 servings
Chicken Broccoli Shells recipe video
Ingredients:
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a little extra tang)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking your pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package directions until al dente. Add the broccoli florets to the pot during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Drain everything and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and saut̩ until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it burn Рit should be just golden and releasing that delicious aroma.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and oil, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, making sure to get rid of any lumps. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the sauce starts to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and Dijon mustard if using. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken back into the pot, stirring until everything is well coated in the creamy cheese sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of milk or chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve
Spoon the Chicken Broccoli Shells into bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve it hot and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Step 7: Enjoy
Dig into this creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner.
Tips:
- Shortcut: If you’re in a hurry, use leftover rotisserie chicken and pre-steamed or microwaved broccoli to make this dish come together even faster.
- Make it Fancy: Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten up the flavors, or sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top and pop it under the broiler for a crunchy finish.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to bring the sauce back to life.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx.) |
| Calories | 400-450 kcal |
| Total Fat | 18-22g |
| – Saturated Fat | 8-10g |
| Cholesterol | 80-90mg |
| Sodium | 600-700mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 35-40g |
| – Dietary Fiber | 3-4g |
| – Sugars | 4-6g |
| Protein | 25-30g |
| Vitamin A | 15-20% DV |
| Vitamin C | 60-70% DV |
| Calcium | 20-25% DV |
| Iron | 10-12% DV |
Health Benefits
- High Protein Content: The chicken in this dish is a fantastic source of lean protein, crucial for muscle growth and repair.
- Vitamin-Rich: Broccoli is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, supporting everything from your immune system to skin health and strong bones.
- Heart Health: Olive oil and garlic are known to be heart-friendly, helping to lower inflammation and cholesterol levels.
- Strong Bones: The cheese and milk add a good dose of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones.
- Immunity Boost: Both garlic and broccoli are rich in antioxidants, giving your immune system a helpful boost to ward off illnesses.
- Fiber-Filled: The combination of broccoli and pasta provides dietary fiber, aiding digestion and keeping cholesterol in check.
- Eye Health: The vitamin A in broccoli is key for good vision and overall eye health.
- Energy Provider: With pasta and chicken, this dish delivers a balanced mix of carbohydrates and protein, ensuring sustained energy.
- Healthy Skin: Vitamin C from broccoli promotes collagen production, crucial for maintaining vibrant, healthy skin.
- Blood Pressure Regulation: Broccoli’s potassium content helps regulate blood pressure and promotes cardiovascular health.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to a month. Allow the dish to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat and Reuse Instructions
- Stovetop: Reheat gently in a pot over low to medium heat. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway. Add a little milk if needed to maintain the creaminess.
- Reinvention: Turn leftovers into a baked pasta dish by placing them in a baking dish, topping with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, and baking at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.
Enjoy your Chicken Broccoli Shells – a delicious, nutritious meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
FAQ’s
Q. How do you make chicken broccoli shells creamy?
To make creamy chicken broccoli shells, cook the pasta shells until al dente, then toss them in a sauce made from cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Stir in the cooked chicken and steamed broccoli until everything is well coated.
Q. Can I use leftover chicken for chicken broccoli shells?
Yes, leftover chicken works perfectly for this recipe. Just shred or dice the cooked chicken and mix it in with the pasta and broccoli during the final steps of cooking.
Q. How do you keep broccoli from getting mushy in chicken broccoli shells?
To keep the broccoli from getting mushy, steam or blanch it until just tender before adding it to the pasta. This way, it stays bright green and has a nice bite.
Q. What type of pasta works best for chicken broccoli shells?
Medium or large pasta shells are ideal because they hold the sauce and bits of chicken and broccoli well. However, you can also use other short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni.
Q. Can I make chicken broccoli shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare chicken broccoli shells ahead of time. Assemble the dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking or reheating. If making ahead, slightly undercook the pasta to prevent it from becoming too soft when reheated.
Q. Is it possible to freeze chicken broccoli shells?
Yes, chicken broccoli shells can be frozen. Assemble the dish in a freezer-safe container, cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.