Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are a cozy, comforting dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With creamy Alfredo, tender chicken, melted cheese, and nutrient-rich broccoli, this dish blends flavor, nutrition, and ease.
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells pack protein, fiber, and calcium into every bite. The pasta shells hold the savory filling perfectly, making each bite satisfying and delicious.
Easy to prep and freezer-friendly, these shells are a go-to for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. For more quick dinner ideas, try our crispy chicken nuggets with smoky BBQ sauce or chicken gnocchi with garlic butter sauce.
Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are truly a game-changer when it comes to quick, satisfying meals. First off, they’re ultra kid-friendly — the rich, cheesy filling is so irresistible that even picky eaters won’t mind the broccoli hiding inside. Adults love them just as much for their indulgent texture and flavorful punch.
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are also a breeze to put together. You’ll appreciate the simplicity of combining a few pantry and freezer staples into a meal that looks and tastes gourmet. And better yet, these shells freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests.
In the mood for something similar but with a BBQ twist? Give our crispy chicken nuggets with smoky BBQ sauce a try. Or explore another creamy comfort classic like our chicken gnocchi with garlic butter sauce.
Print
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
Description
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Stuffed Shells – pasta shells filled with chicken, broccoli, cheese, and alfredo sauce! The whole family is going to love this easy dinner recipe!
Ingredients
- 24 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 (15 ounce) jar alfredo sauce, divided
- 2 cups diced cooked chicken
- 2 cups diced frozen broccoli, thawed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with oil.
- Cook shells according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water; set aside.
- Set aside ½ cup of alfredo sauce.
- Stir together remaining alfredo sauce, chicken, broccoli, ¾ cup cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
- Divide filling among the cooked pasta shells and place in prepared baking dish.
- Drizzle remaining alfredo sauce on top. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes, until filling is bubbly and cheese is melted.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 686
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 243mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 101g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 57mg
Keywords: cheesy chicken broccoli stuffed shells, pasta, chicken, alfredo, easy dinner
If you made this recipe, please leave a rating at the bottom of the page! Your feedback is valuable to me and other readers. For more delicious homemade recipes, subscribe to my Newsletter and join me on Pinterest, Facebook, and X!
Ingredients with Quantity for Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells require simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Each component contributes to that perfect blend of texture, flavor, and comfort:
- 24 jumbo pasta shells (cooked al dente)
- 2 cups diced cooked chicken (rotisserie is perfect!)
- 2 cups frozen broccoli, thawed and chopped
- 1 (15 oz) jar Alfredo sauce (or homemade if preferred)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, black pepper, garlic powder (to taste)
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells shine when you use quality ingredients, especially in the sauce and cheeses. Want to explore more cheesy favorites? Try pairing this recipe with our chicken gnocchi in garlic butter sauce or even serve it with crispy BBQ chicken nuggets as a bold side.
Essential Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells Tools for Baking
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells come together more efficiently when you have the right tools at your side. Luckily, you don’t need any fancy kitchen gadgets — just a few basics that make the process seamless.
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells require a large 9×13-inch baking dish to hold all the stuffed pasta neatly. A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining your chicken, broccoli, cheese, and sauce. Don’t forget a spoon or spatula for stuffing the shells — silicone versions work great here. You’ll also need a cheese grater if using fresh cheese and a saucepan if you’re opting to make your own Alfredo.
Looking to build your recipe collection with easy dinners? Try our chicken gnocchi with garlic butter sauce or these crunchy, crispy chicken nuggets with smoky BBQ sauce for more low-effort, tools-required meals.
How to Make the Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are incredibly easy to make, which is why they’re perfect for busy evenings. To start, cook your jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions — but make sure not to overcook them since they’ll continue baking in the oven.
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells filling comes together by mixing the chicken, broccoli, ¾ of the cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and most of the Alfredo sauce. Spoon the mixture into each shell and line them in your greased baking dish. Then, drizzle the remaining sauce and sprinkle with the last bit of cheddar. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling.
Want more recipes that follow this simple prep-bake-serve method? You’ll love our crispy BBQ chicken nuggets or even the indulgent chicken gnocchi with garlic butter sauce.
Swaps and Substitutions for Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for a wide range of dietary needs and flavor preferences. Whether you’re dairy-free, gluten-sensitive, or just want to experiment, there are plenty of options.
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free-certified pasta shells and Alfredo sauce. Dairy-free cheese and coconut cream-based Alfredo work great if you’re avoiding lactose. Not a fan of broccoli? Swap it out with spinach, zucchini, or even finely chopped cauliflower. You can also replace chicken with turkey, ground beef, or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.
Craving more creative variations? Check out our flavorful crispy chicken nuggets with smoky BBQ sauce or the buttery twist of chicken gnocchi with garlic butter sauce.
What to Serve with the Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are hearty on their own, but the right side dish can elevate your meal from satisfying to unforgettable. Since the shells are rich and creamy, pairing them with something crisp or light adds a nice balance.
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells go beautifully with a fresh green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread or buttery rolls are great for soaking up extra Alfredo sauce. You could also add a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or carrots, for extra nutrients and color on your plate.
Want more well-rounded meal ideas? Try serving these shells with our tangy crispy chicken nuggets with smoky BBQ sauce as an appetizer, or alongside chicken gnocchi in garlic butter sauce for a pasta night feast.
Conclusion
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells deliver everything you want in a cozy dinner: creamy cheese, tender chicken, hidden veggies, and easy prep. Whether you’re feeding picky kids, hosting a casual dinner, or freezing meals ahead, this recipe ticks all the boxes.
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are adaptable, freezable, and comforting — exactly the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with a smile. So next time you’re craving something indulgent yet simple, remember this dish is just a few ingredients and one oven away.
Looking for more comforting dinners? Don’t miss our crowd-pleasing crispy BBQ chicken nuggets and flavor-packed chicken gnocchi with garlic butter sauce.
FAQs About the Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells
What do you eat stuffed shells with?
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells pair wonderfully with crusty garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving them alongside crispy chicken nuggets with smoky BBQ sauce for a kid-friendly combo. A light soup or steamed asparagus can also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
How many calories are in chicken, broccoli, and cheese?
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells average around 680–700 calories per serving, depending on portion size and sauce. This includes protein from chicken, nutrients from broccoli, and fats from cheese and Alfredo. If you’re looking to lighten it up, try reducing cheese or opting for a lighter sauce. For a lower-carb variation, serve it alongside a lighter dish like our chicken gnocchi with garlic butter sauce.
How far ahead can you make stuffed shells?
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells can be made up to 24 hours in advance before baking. Simply assemble them, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. If baking straight from the fridge, add 5–10 extra minutes to your bake time to ensure everything heats evenly.
How long to microwave stuffed shells?
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells can be microwaved for 2 to 3 minutes per serving, depending on your microwave wattage. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel or a microwave-safe lid to avoid drying them out. For better results, use a combination of microwave and oven reheating when possible.
Why do stuffed shells get watery?
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells may become watery if the broccoli isn’t fully drained or if the sauce is too thin. To prevent this, be sure to thaw and pat dry your frozen broccoli thoroughly and use a thick, high-quality Alfredo sauce. Also, don’t overbake — that can cause moisture to release from the ingredients.
What is the best way to reheat stuffed shells?
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells are best reheated in the oven at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes, covered with foil. This preserves texture and prevents drying. For quicker reheating, use the microwave in 1-minute intervals, but expect a softer shell texture. Pair reheated shells with a fresh side like crispy chicken nuggets with smoky BBQ sauce for a full meal.
