Description
Chicken and Broccoli Stuffed Shells
Ingredients:
10 jumbo shells
2 cups cooked chicken, diced
1½ cups steamed broccoli
1 cup sour cream
½ cup grated mozzarella
1 tsp garlic powder
2 cups marinara sauce
Steps:
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Cook shells and set aside.
Mix chicken, broccoli, sour cream, mozzarella, and garlic powder.
Stuff shells with the mixture and layer in a baking dish.
Pour marinara sauce over the shells and bake for 25 minutes.
Would you choose marinara for a tangy twist? Let us know!
#ChickenStuffedShells
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect stuffed shells every time.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the 10 jumbo pasta shells according to package directions for al dente, usually 9-11 minutes. Drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process. Arrange them on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- While the shells cook, prepare your filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of diced cooked chicken, 1½ cups of finely chopped steamed broccoli, 1 cup sour cream, ½ cup grated mozzarella, and 1 tsp garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed and cohesive.
- Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked shell with the chicken and broccoli mixture. Be generous but avoid overstuffing, which can cause shells to tear.
- Place the stuffed shells in a single layer in your prepared baking dish.
- Pour 2 cups of your favorite marinara sauce evenly over the top of the arranged shells, ensuring each one gets coated.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese in the filling is melted.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed shells are a complete meal on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a heartier dinner, add a slice of warm, crusty garlic bread. Garnish the finished dish with fresh chopped parsley or basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
How-to Summary
Cook shells, mix chicken, broccoli, sour cream, mozzarella, and garlic powder for the filling. Stuff the mixture into the cooled shells, place in a dish, top with marinara sauce, and bake covered at 375°F for 25 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, but cooked ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even canned tuna are excellent substitutes.
How can I make this dish ahead of time? Assemble the stuffed shells with sauce in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time.
Can I freeze Chicken and Broccoli Stuffed Shells? Yes. Assemble the dish but do not bake. Wrap it well and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
What can I use instead of sour cream? Ricotta cheese is a classic and delicious alternative. For a lighter option, try plain Greek yogurt, but be aware it may separate slightly.
My shells are tearing when I stuff them. What did I do wrong? This usually means the shells were overcooked. Ensure you cook them only to al dente and handle them gently after rinsing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Mushy shells are difficult to stuff and hold their shape. Always aim for al dente.
- Using Wet Fillings: Ensure your steamed broccoli is well-drained and your cooked chicken isn’t watery. Excess moisture can make the filling runny.
- Skipping the Cover: Baking covered with foil for the first part is crucial. It traps steam to heat the filling through without drying out the shells.
- Not Seasoning the Filling: Taste your filling mixture before stuffing. You may want to add salt, pepper, or Italian herbs to boost the flavor.
Conclusion
Chicken and Broccoli Stuffed Shells are a comforting, family-friendly meal that cleverly combines classic flavors in a fun pasta package. They are versatile for make-ahead dinners and freezer meals, ensuring a delicious solution is always on hand. Experiment with the fillings and sauces to make this recipe your own, and don’t forget to share your tasty creations!