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Easy Cheesy Chicken Shells

These Cheesy Chicken Shells are a warm and comforting dish filled with creamy cheese, shredded chicken, and chopped broccoli, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 480 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients

  • 12 oz jumbo pasta shells Medium shells can be used if jumbo is not available.
  • 3 cup cooked chicken, shredded Rotisserie or leftover chicken works well.
  • 1 cup broccoli, chopped Steamed or cooked briefly if frozen.
  • 8 oz cream cheese Use full-fat for best flavor.
  • 2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Low-moisture part-skim for better melting.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Freshly grated is recommended.
  • 3 clove garlic, minced Enhances flavor significantly.
  • to taste salt & pepper Season as needed.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil For sautéing garlic.
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme.
  • 2 cup marinara sauce Quality store-bought or homemade.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with marinara.
  • Cook the pasta shells in salted boiling water according to package instructions; drain and set aside.

Cooking

  • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
  • Add shredded chicken and chopped broccoli to the skillet and mix to warm through.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, half of the mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Assembly

  • Fill each pasta shell with chicken and broccoli mixture, then top with cream cheese mixture.
  • Spread a layer of marinara in the baking dish, place stuffed shells in the dish, and cover with remaining marinara.
  • Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.

Baking

  • Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden, optionally broiling for 1-2 minutes for extra browning.

Serving

  • Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 32gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 840mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6g
Keyword Cheesy Chicken Shells, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Family Dinner, Meal Prep
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