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+ servings

Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Shells

A creamy and cheesy pasta dish featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and large pasta shells, perfect for a comforting meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Chicken
  • 12 oz large pasta shells uncooked
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tbsp butter unsalted
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk whole or 2%
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup cream cheese softened
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper to taste
Topping
  • 0.5 cup bread crumbs optional
  • 0.25 cup parmesan cheese grated

Method
 

Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
  2. Reduce heat to low, then add the cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine and Bake
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, chicken, and cheese sauce. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
  2. Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish. If desired, sprinkle bread crumbs and parmesan cheese on top.
  3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For added flavor, consider mixing in some cooked bacon or using different types of cheese.

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