Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells

This recipe combines Connor's favorite foods - chicken, pasta, cheese, and broccoli - and he LOVED it! (Recipe adapted from here.)

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Shells

8 oz. pasta shells

{source}

12 oz. broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
1 lb. chicken breast, in bite-sized pieces
2 Tbsp. butter
1/4 c. flour
2 c. milk
2 c. grated sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
salt and pepper to taste

In a large pot bring water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to package directions.
While the pasta is cooking, sauté the chicken; set aside.
The broccoli - if fresh, add it to the boiling pasta the last 3 minutes of cooking; drain and set aside... - if frozen, microwave steam and set aside.

Drain pasta and set aside in colander.
In the same pasta pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute, creating a roux. Over medium-high heat, slowly whisk in the milk and cheese and bring to a boil, until it starts to thicken.
Add in pasta, broccoli, and chicken and toss to coat in the sauce. Serve immediately.