Creamy, cheesy, and packed with feel-good flavor—cheesy chicken broccoli stuffed shells have always taken me back to Sunday nights cooking with my mom. We’d prep the shells together, sneak bits of mozzarella, and turn a simple dinner into something special. Now, I recreate this dish for strong, health-conscious women who crave cozy, protein-rich meals without the fuss. These shells are filled with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy blend—then baked to golden, bubbly perfection. Let’s dive into a comforting classic that fits your goals and your schedule.
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The Heart of the Dish – What Makes Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Stuffed Shells So Special
Creamy Comfort with a Protein Punch
There’s something deeply satisfying about digging into a dish that’s both hearty and nourishing. These cheesy chicken and broccoli stuffed shells deliver on that front with lean chicken breast, high-fiber broccoli, and gooey mozzarella cheese, all wrapped in perfectly cooked pasta shells. It’s a blend that hits that nostalgic note while fueling your body with over 25g of protein per serving. The creamy, savory sauce made from half-and-half, Parmesan, and a hint of chicken bouillon creates a luscious backdrop that holds everything together.
Each shell is packed with a combination of tender chopped chicken and broccoli, a creamy base of sour cream and egg, and that irresistible cheese pull from melted mozzarella. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping weekday meals, this baked pasta dish is as functional as it is flavorful.
Clean Ingredients, Cozy Flavor
You won’t find canned soups or artificial shortcuts in this version. Everything is made from real, clean ingredients. The base uses butter, flour, and milk to create a homemade roux that’s both healthier and tastier than processed alternatives. The result? A naturally rich sauce that coats each shell beautifully without weighing it down. Broccoli and chicken are a classic pair, but inside jumbo pasta shells and baked under a blanket of cheese, they become something truly extraordinary.
And if you’re looking to stay aligned with your macros, this dish fits right in. You can even swap in light mozzarella or Greek yogurt for the sour cream. For a similar dish, check out our creamy smothered chicken over rice or keep it fun with cheddar-stuffed BBQ bacon bombs—both flavorful and macro-balanced options to add variety to your weekly menu.
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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Stuffed Shells – Creamy, Freezer-Friendly Favorite
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy stuffed pasta shells filled with chicken, broccoli, and cheese, baked to perfection for a hearty, freezer-friendly meal.
Ingredients
1 (16 oz) box jumbo pasta shells
2 tablespoons butter
3/4 cup chopped onion
2 (10 oz) bags frozen broccoli, thawed and well-drained
1 1/2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
1 cup light cream or half-and-half
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1 egg, slightly beaten
1/4 cup butter
1 1/2 teaspoons instant chicken bouillon
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup flour
1 cup milk
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook pasta shells as directed and cool in cold water.
3. Sauté onion in 2 tablespoons butter until soft.
4. Mix broccoli, onion, chicken, mozzarella, sour cream, and egg.
5. Melt 1/4 cup butter, stir in flour, bouillon, and pepper.
6. Add milk and cream, cook until thickened.
7. Layer sauce in baking dish, fill shells with broccoli mix.
8. Place shells in dish and top with remaining sauce and parmesan.
9. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Notes
You can prepare this dish ahead of time and bake when needed. Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a higher protein version. Freezes well either before or after baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 shells
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Easy Prep & Make-Ahead Magic with Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Stuffed Shells
A Perfect Make-Ahead Meal
One of the best things about cheesy chicken and broccoli stuffed shells is how wonderfully they adapt to your schedule. Whether you’re juggling work, workouts, or feeding a full family, this dish fits right in. You can assemble the entire recipe a day ahead, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake as directed—no extra steps required. It’s the kind of creamy stuffed shells dish that tastes even better after the flavors meld in the fridge.
Busy week ahead? Freeze individual portions after baking for a quick high-protein lunch. Or, prep everything raw, freeze it unbaked, and pop it in the oven straight from the freezer with a little extra baking time. It’s flexible, freezable, and fabulous for anyone who likes batch cooking. Plus, using cooked chicken (like rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken) saves you even more prep time.
This meal-prep-friendly feature makes it ideal for Sunday planning. Pair it with something bright like our garlic butter salmon with spinach and mushrooms for balance throughout the week.
Ingredient Hacks That Simplify and Satisfy
Got frozen broccoli on hand? Perfect. This recipe was designed with convenience in mind, using simple, accessible ingredients without sacrificing flavor. Don’t want to boil fresh florets? Thawed frozen broccoli works just fine—just be sure to drain it well to avoid watery filling. Even the jumbo shells can be boiled in advance and stored in a little oil to keep them from sticking.
And if you’re wondering whether you can swap the dairy, yes! Greek yogurt or cottage cheese can replace sour cream for an extra protein boost. With all this flexibility, you can make a wholesome broccoli chicken dinner that works with your routine, not against it.
For more freezer-friendly recipes, check out keto carnivore pizza muffins or our ultra-comforting mexican white trash casserole.
Baking It to Perfection – Cheese Choices and Golden Bubbles
Choosing the Right Cheese for the Creamiest Result
When it comes to this baked pasta dish, cheese does a lot of heavy lifting—flavor, texture, and that signature gooey finish. The base recipe uses mozzarella for its mild creaminess and great melt, but you can easily switch it up. A combo of mozzarella and sharp cheddar gives a rich, cheesy bite while still letting the broccoli and chicken shine through. Want a gourmet twist? Add a little Gruyère or fontina for depth. If you’re dairy-sensitive, lactose-free mozzarella-style shreds or a light goat cheese also melt beautifully.
Parmesan is a must for that golden, salty finish on top. Sprinkle generously before baking and you’ll get that crave-worthy crust. No matter your combo, make sure your cheese is shredded fresh for the best melt—you’ll avoid the anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
Looking for other cheesy recipes with a twist? Our melted mozzarella and ranch chicken bombs offer gooey satisfaction in every bite, while crispy cheddar corn potato fritters bring a different kind of crunch and creaminess.
The Secret to a Bubbly, Crisp Top
To get that picture-perfect finish, bake your shells uncovered in the center of a preheated oven at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes. The sauce should bubble around the edges and the cheese should be melted and slightly golden. For extra crispiness, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes—just watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
Want even more texture? Add a layer of breadcrumbs or crushed whole-grain crackers mixed with olive oil on top before baking. It adds crunch and balances the creaminess of the mozzarella stuffed pasta beautifully. When it comes out of the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes so the filling sets and every shell stays perfectly intact.
Healthier Twists & Serving Ideas for a Balanced Plate
Lighter, Smarter Ingredient Swaps
While cheesy chicken broccoli stuffed shells are naturally comforting, there are a few easy ways to lighten it up without losing the soul of the dish. First, swap out the half-and-half for unsweetened almond milk or evaporated skim milk. You’ll keep that creamy consistency with fewer calories and less fat.
Replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt—it boosts protein and adds a tangy balance. Want even more fiber? Add finely chopped cauliflower or spinach to the filling alongside broccoli for extra greens. Using whole wheat jumbo shells or high-protein pasta options gives the dish more staying power with complex carbs.
Chicken breast is already a lean protein, but for a lower-fat option, shredded turkey works great, especially post-holidays. And if you’re dairy-free, plant-based cheeses melt surprisingly well now—just pick versions labeled for baking.
Looking for lighter meal ideas with similar cozy vibes? You’ll love our street corn chicken rice bowls or veggie-loaded chinese ground beef and cabbage stir fry.
Serve It Like a Pro
For a balanced plate, serve these creamy stuffed shells with a crisp side salad—think lemon vinaigrette with arugula, or shaved fennel for crunch. Roasted carrots, asparagus, or green beans also make beautiful partners that don’t compete with the rich pasta.
Hosting a dinner? Garnish with fresh parsley or basil just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness. For extra presentation points, serve them in a ceramic baking dish straight from oven to table.
Whether you’re meal-prepping or feeding a crowd, this broccoli chicken dinner always impresses—and it’s simple enough to make on a weeknight.
FAQs About Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Stuffed Shells
Can I make cheesy chicken broccoli stuffed shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for prepping in advance. You can stuff the shells and assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes while the oven preheats. Then bake as usual until hot and bubbly.
What cheese is best for cheesy chicken broccoli stuffed shells?
Mozzarella is the classic choice for its smooth melt and mild flavor. For more depth, combine it with cheddar or Parmesan. Fontina and Gruyère are also excellent melty options. Always shred your cheese fresh for the best texture and taste.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken works beautifully in this recipe. It saves time and adds delicious roasted flavor. Just remove the skin, chop the meat finely, and mix it into the filling with broccoli, sour cream, and cheese.
Do I need to cook the broccoli before stuffing the shells?
If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s fully thawed and well-drained. You don’t need to cook it further. For fresh broccoli, a quick steam or blanch ensures it’s tender enough to blend smoothly with the filling.
What type of pasta shells should I use?
Jumbo pasta shells are essential for stuffing. They’re large enough to hold the creamy chicken and broccoli mixture and bake evenly. Be sure not to overcook them—they should be al dente to avoid tearing during assembly.
Can I freeze cheesy chicken broccoli stuffed shells?
Yes, these freeze exceptionally well. Assemble the dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze before baking. When ready, bake straight from the freezer, adding 10–15 extra minutes of cooking time. You can also freeze baked leftovers in single portions for quick meals.
Are there healthier versions of this dish?
Definitely! Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt, use low-fat cheese, and try whole wheat pasta shells. Add extra veggies like spinach or use light cream alternatives. These small changes keep the dish nutritious while maintaining the creamy, cheesy comfort.
Conclusion
Cheesy chicken broccoli stuffed shells are the perfect blend of creamy comfort and practical nutrition—everything you need for a satisfying dinner that doesn’t derail your health goals. With their make-ahead ease, family-friendly flavor, and balanced macros, they’ve earned a top spot in my weekly meal prep rotation.
If this recipe brought some joy and ease to your kitchen, I’d love to hear about it! You can tag me and share your creation over on Facebook for a chance to be featured, or save and pin your favorite dishes to your boards via Pinterest—perfect for planning your next meal.
And don’t forget, I’m always adding more high-protein, feel-good recipes for women who want flavor without compromise. So follow, pin, and cook along with me at usahomerecipes.com—where wellness and comfort are always on the same plate.
