Description of this recipe: Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells is a heartwarming and satisfying dish that combines the comforting flavors of cheesy pasta with the nutritional benefits of chicken and broccoli. This recipe elevates the classic mac and cheese, offering a complete and balanced meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. It’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
Why you will love this recipe: You’ll adore this Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells recipe because it’s incredibly easy to make, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers a rich, comforting flavor that’s hard to resist. The combination of tender pasta shells, savory chicken, and slightly sweet broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you feeling completely satisfied. Moreover, this recipe is easily customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences by adding different cheeses, vegetables, or spices. It’s a one-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor, making it a winning choice for busy weeknights. The baked finish adds a touch of elegance, making it suitable for both casual meals and special occasions.
Introduction
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells is more than just a simple pasta dish; it’s a celebration of comfort food with a healthy twist. The recipe starts with perfectly cooked pasta shells, which act as little vessels to capture the creamy, cheesy goodness. Tender, diced chicken provides a hearty protein boost, while steamed broccoli florets introduce a touch of freshness and essential nutrients. The real star of the show, however, is the luscious cheese sauce, made from a combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, creating a complex and irresistible flavor profile.
This recipe is designed to be approachable for cooks of all skill levels. It relies on simple techniques and readily available ingredients, ensuring that anyone can create a restaurant-worthy dish in their own kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, you’ll find this recipe to be both rewarding and satisfying. The result is a cheesy, creamy, and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal or a potluck gathering.
The baking step elevates the dish to another level, melding the flavors together and creating a bubbly, golden-brown crust that’s simply irresistible. This final touch adds a touch of elegance, making it suitable for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz large pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it allows the dish to bake evenly and develop a beautiful, golden-brown crust. Ensure that your oven is properly preheated before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2: Cook Pasta
In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package directions. Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it thoroughly and set it aside. Avoid rinsing the pasta, as the starch on the surface will help the sauce adhere to the shells.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until translucent and softened. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can impart a bitter flavor to the dish. The sautéing process infuses the oil with the flavors of the onion and garlic, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
Step 4: Make Roux
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir constantly with a whisk for 1-2 minutes, until the flour is lightly golden. This step is crucial for creating a smooth and lump-free sauce. The roux (a mixture of flour and fat) acts as a thickening agent, giving the sauce its creamy consistency. Make sure to cook the flour thoroughly to eliminate any raw flour taste.
Step 5: Create Sauce
Gradually add the milk to the skillet, whisking constantly to remove any lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Stir frequently to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the skillet. The simmering process allows the starch in the flour to swell and thicken the sauce.
Step 6: Melt Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until they are completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. The cheddar cheese provides a sharp, tangy flavor, while the Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty note. Stir continuously to prevent the cheese from scorching. This step is where the sauce transforms into the rich, cheesy delight that is the heart of the dish.
Step 7: Add Chicken & Broccoli
Add the diced cooked chicken and steamed broccoli florets to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine, ensuring that the chicken and broccoli are evenly coated in the sauce. The chicken adds protein and a savory element, while the broccoli provides a healthy dose of vitamins and a touch of freshness.
Step 8: Combine with Pasta
Gently fold in the cooked pasta shells until they are evenly coated in the cheesy chicken and broccoli mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the pasta to break. The pasta shells should be fully immersed in the sauce, allowing them to absorb the flavors.
Step 9: Bake
Transfer the Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells to a greased baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and lightly golden on top. The baking process allows the flavors to meld together and creates a warm, comforting aroma.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease: Easy
- Time: Moderate
- Flavor: High
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot, directly from the oven.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Accompany with garlic bread or crusty rolls for dipping in the cheesy sauce.
- Pairs well with a light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk or cream instead of low-fat milk.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a subtle warmth.
- Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack, to customize the flavor.
- Add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach, for added nutrition and flavor.
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can use rotisserie chicken or canned chicken.
- To prevent the pasta from sticking together, toss it with a little olive oil after draining.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Per Serving, estimated)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 500mg
Conclusion
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, uses readily available ingredients, and can be customized to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a comforting meal for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to please. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a cheesy, creamy, and flavorful dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the dish is cold.
Q2: Can I freeze this recipe?
A: Yes, you can freeze Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells. However, the texture of the pasta and sauce may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. You may need to add a little extra milk or cream to the sauce to restore its creamy consistency.
Q3: I don’t have large pasta shells. Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Of course! You can substitute large pasta shells with other pasta shapes, such as macaroni, penne, rotini, or farfalle. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions. The key is to choose a pasta shape that has ridges or crevices to capture the cheese sauce.
Q4: I don’t like broccoli. Can I substitute it with a different vegetable?
A: Certainly! You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables, such as cauliflower, carrots, peas, or spinach. Choose vegetables that complement the flavors of the cheese sauce and chicken. If using spinach, add it towards the end of the cooking process to prevent it from wilting too much.
Q5: Can I add a breadcrumb topping to this dish?
A: Definitely! A breadcrumb topping adds a nice crunch and texture to the Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells. To make a breadcrumb topping, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and seasonings. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the pasta before baking.
