Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy dish bubbling away in the oven, and these Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells fit the bill perfectly. Imagine tender jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy chicken and cheese mixture, all smothered in rich Alfredo sauce. This dish is not just easy to prepare, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that brings family and friends together. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these stuffed shells are bound to impress.

Top Reasons to Make Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

• Comfort Food at Its Best: The combination of creamy Alfredo sauce and cheesy goodness makes this dish irresistibly comforting.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily modify the filling to include your favorite vegetables or spices.
• Make Ahead: These shells can be prepared in advance, making them perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
• Perfect for Leftovers: They reheat beautifully, ensuring you can enjoy them more than once!

Gather These Ingredients

• 20 jumbo pasta shells: The perfect vessel for holding all that creamy goodness.
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Use rotisserie chicken for a quick option or cook your own.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy texture to the filling.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: For that melty, cheesy goodness.
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated: A touch of sharpness to elevate the flavor.
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce: Store-bought or homemade, this is the star of the show.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must for flavor enhancement.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend that brings warmth and earthiness to the dish.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing the flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Gear Checklist

• Large pot: For boiling the pasta shells.
• Baking dish: To hold the stuffed shells while they bake.
• Mixing bowl: For combining the filling ingredients.
• Fork or spoon: To help stuff the shells.
• Oven mitts: Safety first when handling hot dishes!

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, Made Easy

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the stuffed shells will bake evenly and come out perfectly bubbly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Carefully add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated and creamy.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

Using a spoon or a fork, take a generous amount of the filling and stuff each pasta shell. Place the filled shells in a greased baking dish, open side up.

Step 5: Add the Alfredo Sauce

Pour the Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, making sure they are well covered. This will keep them moist while baking.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving to add a touch of brightness and flavor.

Year-Round Variations

• Vegetable Medley: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the filling for a nutritious twist.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
• Different Cheeses: Try substituting gouda or cheddar cheese for a unique flavor profile.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a fresher taste.

Behind the Recipe

The inspiration for these Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells came from a love of classic Italian comfort food. Stuffed shells are versatile and allow for creativity in the kitchen. This particular combination of flavors—savory chicken, creamy cheeses, and rich Alfredo sauce—was designed to be a satisfying meal that everyone in the family would enjoy. Plus, who can resist cheesy pasta? It’s practically a universal favorite!

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prepare these stuffed shells a day in advance. Simply assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick meal!

Popular Questions

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought Alfredo sauce saves time and still tastes delicious. Just make sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.

What other proteins can I use in the filling?

Besides chicken, you can use cooked turkey, shrimp, or even a meat substitute for a different flavor profile.

Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled but unbaked shells. Just cover them tightly with foil, and they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding extra time to the cooking time.

How do I know when they are done baking?

The stuffed shells are done when the cheese is melted, and the edges of the sauce are bubbling. A golden-brown crust on top is a good indicator that they are ready to be enjoyed!

Weekend Projects

• Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast – A delightful breakfast treat to start your weekend.
• Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars – A perfect dessert for any gathering.
• Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies – An indulgent chocolate fix for your sweet tooth.

Wrap-Up

These Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a fantastic way to bring a touch of Italian comfort to your dining table. They are rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion. With their easy preparation and versatility, you can customize them to suit your taste and impress anyone you serve them to. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night at home, these stuffed shells are sure to be a hit!

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