Oh, you’re in for a treat with these Coquilles de brocoli au poulet au fromag! Tender chicken mingles with vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s simply irresistible. Each bite is a warm hug, topped with a golden, crispy layer that adds just the right crunch. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing friends at a gathering, this dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors! Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be dreaming about it for days!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Table of Contents
- Trust me, you’re going to love this creamy, cheesy goodness!
- This one’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners.
- It’s packed with protein and veggies—guilt-free indulgence!
- Perfect for meal prep; just reheat and enjoy!
- Kids and adults alike will be asking for seconds!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | French |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 30 minutes |
| Total Time: | 45 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | Hot |
Ingredients
- Broccoli – a nutritious base that adds vibrant color and crunch.
- Chicken breast – lean protein that keeps the dish hearty and satisfying.
- Cream cheese – provides a creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Shredded cheese – enhances the cheesy goodness and creates a delicious topping.
- Garlic – adds aromatic depth and enhances overall flavor.
- Onion – brings sweetness and a savory base to the filling.
- Breadcrumbs – adds a crunchy topping for texture contrast.
- Olive oil – helps sauté the vegetables and adds healthy fats.
- Salt and pepper – essential seasonings to elevate the dish’s flavors.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to whip up some delicious Coquilles de brocoli au poulet au fromag! Follow these fun and easy steps.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This will ensure your dish bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets. Steam them for about 5 minutes until they are bright green and tender.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk until smooth. Add 1 cup of shredded cheese and stir until melted.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the steamed broccoli, cooked chicken, and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Fill the Shells
Carefully fill each pasta shell with the broccoli and chicken mixture. Place them in a greased baking dish.
Step 7: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle additional cheese on top of the filled shells for that extra cheesy goodness.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Enjoy the delightful aroma!
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Let the dish cool for a few minutes, then serve warm. Enjoy your Coquilles de brocoli au poulet au fromag with family and friends!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Use fresh broccoli for a vibrant color and crunch.
Opt for rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor.
Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist.
Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top for extra texture.
Serve with a side salad for a complete meal experience.
How to Serve
- Top with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
- Pair with quinoa or brown rice for a hearty meal.
- Offer a side of garlic bread for a comforting touch.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor.
- Accompany with steamed carrots or green beans for a veggie boost.
- Garnish with grated Parmesan for an extra cheesy finish.
- Serve in individual ramekins for a fun presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing leftovers is easy and ensures you can enjoy your Coquilles de brocoli au poulet au fromag later!
Storing Leftovers
• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
• Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top for expansion.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
• Stir occasionally for even heating.
• For microwave reheating, cover and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
Coquilles de brocoli au poulet au fromag
Equipment
- 1 Skillet For cooking the chicken.
- 1 Saucepan For making the cheese sauce.
- 1 Baking dish For baking the filled shells.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 head Broccoli Chopped into small florets.
- 1 lb Chicken breast Diced.
Dairy
- 8 oz Cream cheese For creamy texture.
- 1 cup Shredded cheese For topping.
Others
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced.
- 1 medium Onion Chopped.
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs For crunchy topping.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil For sautéing.
- to taste Salt and pepper Essential seasonings.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This will ensure your dish bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.
- Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets. Steam them for about 5 minutes until they are bright green and tender.
- In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk until smooth. Add 1 cup of shredded cheese and stir until melted.
- In a large bowl, mix the steamed broccoli, cooked chicken, and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Carefully fill each pasta shell with the broccoli and chicken mixture. Place them in a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle additional cheese on top of the filled shells for that extra cheesy goodness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Enjoy the delightful aroma!
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes, then serve warm. Enjoy your Coquilles de brocoli au poulet au fromag with family and friends!
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a great time-saver and works well in this dish. Just make sure to thaw and drain it properly to avoid excess moisture.
What can I substitute for chicken if I want a vegetarian option?
You can easily replace chicken with cooked chickpeas or tofu. Both options will absorb the flavors beautifully and provide a satisfying texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture. Adjust to your taste for the perfect kick!
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the dish a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. It makes for a convenient meal option!
Here are some common questions about making Coquilles de brocoli au poulet au fromag that can help you in the kitchen!
Final Thoughts
So there you have it—Coquilles de brocoli au poulet au fromag, a dish that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat! Picture yourself savoring each bite, the creamy cheese mingling with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Gather your loved ones, whip up this recipe, and enjoy the smiles around the table. Bon appétit, my friend!
Hungry for more delicious creations? Browse our site for (more recipes) and endless inspiration to spark your next culinary adventure!