When I think of comfort food, Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells immediately come to mind. There’s something magical about those jumbo pasta shells, generously filled with a creamy mixture of chicken and cheese. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. The kitchen filled with the rich aroma of Alfredo sauce, and I could hardly wait to dig in. As we gathered around the table, the anticipation was palpable. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors, with the creamy sauce perfectly complementing the tender chicken and cheesy filling.
What I love most about Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells is their versatility. You can whip them up for a cozy weeknight dinner or impress guests at a gathering. Plus, they’re a hit with both kids and adults alike! The combination of textures—the soft pasta, the gooey cheese, and the savory chicken—creates a dish that feels indulgent yet comforting. Whether you’re enjoying them on a chilly evening or celebrating a special occasion, these stuffed shells are sure to bring smiles to your table. So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe and make some memories together!
Ingredients List
12 jumbo pasta shells: These large shells are perfect for stuffing and hold the creamy filling beautifully.
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover chicken for a quick prep.
1 cup ricotta cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness and a smooth texture to the filling.
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: A must for that gooey, melty goodness on top and inside the shells.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This cheese brings a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
2 cups Alfredo sauce: Store-bought or homemade, this sauce is the star of the dish, adding creaminess.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: For a hint of garlic flavor that complements the chicken and cheese.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds depth and warmth to the filling.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the filling to your preference.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness when serving.
How to Prepare Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Cooking the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the 12 jumbo pasta shells. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 9-11 minutes, until they are al dente. You want them firm enough to hold the filling without breaking. After cooking, drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps prevent them from sticking together. Set them aside on a clean kitchen towel to cool slightly.
Preparing the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning for flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined. The filling should be creamy and flavorful, so don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. This step is crucial for ensuring every bite is delicious!
Assembling the Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take each cooked pasta shell and gently fill it with the chicken and cheese mixture. I like to use a spoon for this, but you can also use a piping bag for a neater approach. Place the filled shells in a greased baking dish, making sure they are snug but not overcrowded. Once all the shells are filled, pour the 2 cups of Alfredo sauce evenly over the top, ensuring each shell is well covered. Finally, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top for that irresistible cheesy crust.
Baking Instructions
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will give the cheese a chance to bubble and turn golden brown. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid over-browning. Once done, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of your Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells!
Nutritional Information
When indulging in Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, it’s good to know what you’re savoring. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per serving:
Calories: 600
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 40g
These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy your meal while keeping these numbers in mind, and remember that comfort food is all about balance!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners.
Comforting and Satisfying: The creamy Alfredo sauce and cheesy filling create a warm, indulgent experience.
Versatile: You can customize the filling with different proteins or veggies to suit your taste.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve, saving you time on busy nights.
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells truly combine convenience and flavor, making them a go-to recipe in my kitchen!
Tips for Success
To make your Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells truly shine, here are some pro tips that I’ve learned along the way:
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente shells. They’ll hold their shape better when stuffed and baked.
Season Generously: Taste your filling before stuffing the shells. Adjust the seasoning to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Use Quality Alfredo Sauce: Whether homemade or store-bought, a good Alfredo sauce makes a big difference in taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of nutmeg for a unique twist!
Layering is Key: When assembling, pour a little Alfredo sauce at the bottom of the baking dish before placing the shells. This prevents sticking and adds extra flavor.
Let it Rest: After baking, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes. This helps the filling set and makes serving easier.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells that will impress everyone at your table!
Variations
One of the best things about Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells is how easily you can customize them to suit your taste. Here are some fun variations to consider:
Cheese Swap: Try using different cheeses like gouda or fontina for a unique flavor profile. A blend of cheeses can add depth to the filling.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or spinach to the filling for a burst of freshness. You can also sprinkle some fresh thyme on top before baking.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini into the filling for added nutrition and flavor.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the filling.
Seafood Twist: Substitute the chicken with shrimp or crab for a delightful seafood version of this classic dish.
These variations can make your Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells even more exciting and tailored to your preferences!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftover Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells can be a lifesaver for busy days! To store them, let the dish cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer the shells to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If the shells are cold from the fridge, cover them with foil to prevent drying out and bake for about 20-25 minutes. If you want to reheat individual portions, a microwave works too! Just place a shell on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure it’s heated through. Enjoy your comforting leftovers!
FAQ Section
Here are some common questions I often hear about Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, along with my answers to help you out:
Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought Alfredo sauce is a great time-saver. Just make sure to choose a quality brand for the best flavor.
Can I make Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just cover them tightly and bake when you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for chicken?
If you want to switch things up, try using shredded turkey, cooked sausage, or even sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless!
How do I prevent the shells from sticking together?
Rinsing the cooked shells under cold water helps prevent sticking. Also, placing them on a clean kitchen towel can keep them separate while you prepare the filling.
Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled shells before baking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a cheesy and creamy comfort food that combines pasta, chicken, and Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
12 jumbo pasta shells
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups Alfredo sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take each cooked pasta shell and fill it generously with the chicken and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish.
Pour the Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Adjust seasoning to your taste.
Use leftover chicken for quicker preparation.
Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
