Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells: A Creamy, Cheesy Family Favorite

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells is a perfect combination of comfort food, cheesy goodness, and creamy indulgence that will leave your taste buds singing. If you love creamy pasta dishes, then this recipe is right up your alley. Stuffed shells, usually a favorite pasta dish, are elevated to a whole new level when combined with a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce and tender chicken. These delicious stuffed pasta shells are a hit for family dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep days. It’s a delightful dish that brings all the cheese lovers and pasta enthusiasts together. Let’s dive into the recipe that guarantees a comforting meal everyone will adore.

What Are Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells?

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy mixture of shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, all combined with a flavorful blend of seasonings. These stuffed shells are then topped with Alfredo sauce and baked until bubbly and golden brown. The result is a mouth-watering, cheesy dish that’s a perfect blend of comforting pasta and rich sauce. Whether you’re a fan of chicken alfredo or just love cheesy stuffed pasta, this recipe delivers everything you crave.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Comforting: The richness of the Alfredo sauce and creamy cheese filling makes this a cozy, indulgent dish for any day of the week.
• Family-Friendly: It’s easy to make and loved by people of all ages—making it an excellent choice for family dinner nights.
• Versatile: You can swap out the chicken for other proteins or veggies if you prefer, creating a customizable dish that suits all tastes.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish can be prepped ahead of time, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients for Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

To prepare Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.

For the Pasta Shells:

• 20 Jumbo Pasta Shells – These large pasta shells provide the perfect vessel for stuffing the cheesy chicken mixture.

For the Chicken Alfredo Filling:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped) – Using cooked chicken ensures that you save time and add a hearty protein to the dish.
• 2 cups ricotta cheese – This creamy cheese binds the filling together and adds richness to the overall dish.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping) – Mozzarella adds a gooey and melty texture that everyone loves.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Parmesan enhances the flavor with its sharp, nutty taste.
• 1 egg – Helps bind the filling ingredients together.
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder – Garlic powder infuses the filling with savory depth and flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – This blend of herbs adds a classic Italian touch to the dish.
• Salt and pepper to taste – These simple seasonings help bring the flavors of the filling together.

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 2 cups Alfredo sauce – You can use store-bought or homemade sauce for this dish.

For Garnish (optional):

• Chopped parsley – Adds a fresh, green contrast to the creamy, cheesy dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Cook the Shells

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package directions until al dente—about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the shells and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the shells aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the shells are cooking, it’s time to prepare the creamy chicken filling. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg. Add the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. The filling should be thick and creamy—perfect for stuffing into the pasta shells.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread 1 cup of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Carefully stuff each pasta shell with about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture and arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish. Be sure to pack them snugly but without overcrowding.

Step 4: Add the Sauce and Cheese

Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, making sure they are well-coated. For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese over the top.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake the stuffed shells for about 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

Once your Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve the stuffed shells hot. Pair them with a side salad or some garlic bread for the ultimate meal!

Tips for Perfect Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

• Use leftover chicken: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, it’s a great time-saver and adds extra flavor to the dish.
• Make it creamy: If you want an extra creamy texture, add more Alfredo sauce, or even a bit of heavy cream to the filling.
• Vegetarian version: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a vegetarian version of these stuffed shells.
• Freezer-friendly: You can assemble the dish ahead of time, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze it. When ready to serve, bake it from frozen, but extend the baking time by 10–15 minutes.

Why Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Are the Ultimate Comfort Food

Stuffed shells are a classic comfort food, and when combined with creamy Alfredo sauce and tender chicken, they become the ultimate cozy dish. The layers of cheese and rich sauce create an indulgent experience, perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering. It’s easy to see why this recipe has become a favorite in many households. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a special celebration, Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are guaranteed to please the whole family.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the assembled shells for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just increase the baking time to ensure the dish is heated through.

2. Can I use a different sauce for this recipe?
While Alfredo sauce is traditional, you can substitute with other creamy sauces like a white sauce or béchamel for a lighter version. You can also opt for marinara or pesto if you want to add a twist.

3. Can I add vegetables to Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells?
Absolutely! Feel free to add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the filling to make the dish more hearty and nutritious.

4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, by replacing the chicken with your favorite vegetables, such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even roasted butternut squash, you can easily turn this dish into a satisfying vegetarian meal.

5. How can I make Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the filling or Alfredo sauce to give it some extra kick.

Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells is a comforting, indulgent, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you simply want a satisfying meal. The combination of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and Alfredo sauce makes for a winning recipe that will soon become a household favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a cozy weeknight meal, Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are guaranteed to please every palate. With a few simple ingredients and a little time in the oven, you’ll have a dish that’s not only filling but also full of flavor. Enjoy!

With Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, you’re bringing together creamy, cheesy pasta in the most comforting way possible. Try this recipe today and treat yourself and your family to a delicious meal that’s as easy to make as it is enjoyable to eat.

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