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Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells

This comforting dish features tender pasta shells filled with a creamy cheese sauce, shredded chicken, and nutritious broccoli, making it a complete meal that's perfect for families.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 People
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large pot
  • 1 colander
  • 1 large skillet
  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 baking dish (9x13 inches)
  • 1 oven

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces large pasta shells
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for shredded chicken to save time.
  • 2 cups broccoli florets Fresh or frozen can be used.
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cream cheese Softened.
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Cooking spray for greasing

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Add broccoli florets during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the cream cheese and milk, stirring until smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
  • Stir in the shredded chicken and 1 cup of cheddar cheese, mixing well until the cheese has melted and everything is combined.
  • Gently fold the cooked pasta shells and broccoli into the cheese mixture until evenly coated.
  • Spray a baking dish with cooking spray. Spoon the mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  • Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for shredded chicken to save time.
Feel free to add some spices or herbs, such as Italian seasoning or paprika, for extra flavor.
This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking—just extend the cooking time by a few minutes.