If you're searching for a delicious, family-friendly recipe that fits seamlessly into your weekly meal plan, look no further than Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells. This hearty and satisfying dish is a perfect blend of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and wholesome broccoli—all tucked into jumbo pasta shells and baked to golden perfection.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or planning a cozy dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes for flavor, nutrition, and convenience.
Why Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells Belong in Your Meal Plan
When it comes to smart meal planning, versatility and nutrition are key. Here's why this recipe is a game-changer for your weekly meal plan:
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High in Protein: Lean chicken breast provides a great source of protein to keep you full and energized.
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Loaded with Veggies: Broccoli adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals—plus a fresh contrast to the rich cheese sauce.
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Easy to Reheat: This dish stores well in the fridge and can be frozen, making it ideal for batch cooking and busy nights.
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Customizable: Swap in whole wheat shells, use low-fat cheeses, or add extra veggies to fit your dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this crowd-pleasing dish, gather the following ingredients:
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20 jumbo pasta shells
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2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
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1 ½ cups steamed broccoli, chopped
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1 cup ricotta cheese
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1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 egg
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 jar (24 oz) Alfredo sauce or homemade white sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta:
Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Make the Filling:
In a large bowl, mix the chicken, broccoli, ricotta, 1 ½ cups mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and seasonings.
3. Stuff the Shells:
Fill each shell with a generous spoonful of the mixture.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Spread half of the Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells over the sauce. Pour the remaining sauce on top and sprinkle with extra mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake:
Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
How to Include This Dish in Your Meal Plan
Adding Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells to your meal plan is simple:
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Meal Prep Sunday: Make a double batch and store half in the freezer for another week.
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Lunch Portions: Pack into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
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Family Dinner: Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a balanced evening meal.
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Mix & Match: Alternate with other planned meals like chili, stir-fry, or soup for variety.
Tips for Making It Healthier
If you’re working with a specific dietary goal, consider these easy swaps:
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Use whole wheat pasta shells for extra fiber.
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Go light on the cheese or use part-skim options.
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Add spinach or mushrooms to boost veggie content.
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Try Greek yogurt in place of ricotta for added protein.
Final Thoughts
If you’re tired of boring dinners and want to spice up your meal plan, Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Stuffed Shells is a comforting, crave-worthy option that delivers both taste and nutrition. It’s easy to make, freezer-friendly, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.
Make it once, and you’ll want to add it to your weekly meal plan rotation again and again.
Keyword Focus: meal plan
Additional Tags: cheesy stuffed shells, easy chicken recipes, meal prep dinners, comfort food, broccoli recipes
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