Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells, a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and cheesy pasta shells. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a flavorful meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week.

Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells is a great way to incorporate protein, veggies, and dairy into one delicious meal. With a creamy and cheesy sauce coating the pasta, chicken, and broccoli, this dish offers a balanced combination of flavors and textures that will surely satisfy your taste buds.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces medium shells pasta (uncooked)
• 1 pound of chicken (cubed, cooked)
• 2 cups broccoli (fresh or frozen)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheese of your choice
• 3 cloves of garlic (minced)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1 cup broth (beef or chicken)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cajun seasoning or chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt to taste

Directions:

1. Boil broccoli until softened, then set aside.
2. Cook pasta in a large pot of lightly salted water, then drain.
3. Return pasta to the pot, add 1 tablespoon of butter, stir until melted, and transfer to a large bowl.
4. In the same pot, melt remaining butter with oil and garlic, then whisk in flour, heavy cream, milk, seasonings, and broth. Bring to a low boil.
5. Add cooked shells, broccoli, and chicken to the sauce, mix well.
6. Enjoy!

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells

Serve this dish hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to maintain the creaminess.

Tips to Make Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells

• Use any type of cheese you prefer for a personalized flavor profile.
• Cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
• Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences for a dish that suits your palate.

Variation

For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also swap out the broccoli for asparagus or spinach for a different vegetable twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, you can substitute frozen broccoli for fresh in this recipe.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of shells? Feel free to use any pasta shape you like, such as penne or fusilli.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead and combine just before serving for optimal taste and texture.