Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells bring together the best of two comfort food classics pasta and creamy Alfredo sauce. Jumbo pasta shells are generously stuffed with a rich mixture of shredded chicken, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, then baked in a velvety Alfredo sauce until bubbly and golden. This dish is packed with cheesy goodness and perfect for a cozy family dinner or a meal to impress guests. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility you can easily prepare it ahead of time, customize the filling with extra veggies, or swap out the protein for a different twist. Whether you’re making this for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, these stuffed shells will become a favorite in your dinner rotation!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 20-25 large pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups prepared Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Pasta Shells: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions (about 9-11 minutes). Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stuff the Shells: Spoon the chicken mixture into each cooked pasta shell, being careful not to overfill them.
- Assemble the Dish: Spread 1 cup of Alfredo sauce across the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange stuffed shells seam-side down. Pour remaining Alfredo sauce over the shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy hot!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4-6 servings
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells: The Ultimate Comfort Food for Pasta Lovers
If you’re looking for a dish that combines creamy indulgence with a satisfying bite, Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells is the perfect choice. This recipe is a delightful fusion of two beloved Italian-American dishes chicken Alfredo and stuffed pasta shells resulting in a meal that’s rich, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a cozy date night, or a gathering with friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells isn’t just another pasta dish it’s a dish that delivers the ultimate comfort-food experience. Here are a few reasons why it’s a must-try:
1. Creamy and Cheesy Goodness
This dish is layered with creamy Alfredo sauce and a rich cheese blend that melts beautifully when baked. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a decadent filling, while the Alfredo sauce adds a velvety texture to every bite.
2. A Hearty, Protein-Packed Meal
With a generous amount of shredded chicken in the filling, this meal is both hearty and satisfying. It’s an excellent source of protein, making it a well-balanced option for lunch or dinner. If you’re looking to make it even healthier, you can swap out the traditional pasta shells for whole wheat versions or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the filling.
3. Perfect for Meal Prepping
One of the best things about this recipe is how well it holds up as a make-ahead meal. You can assemble the stuffed shells in advance, refrigerate them overnight, and bake them the next day. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you want a home-cooked meal without the hassle of cooking from scratch.
4. Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food
If you’re hosting a dinner party or a family gathering, Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells is a dish that’s sure to be a hit. It’s rich and indulgent enough for special occasions but easy enough to make for a casual meal at home. Pair it with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying dinner.
The Magic of Alfredo Sauce
One of the standout components of this dish is the Alfredo sauce. While store-bought versions are convenient, making your own Alfredo sauce from scratch elevates the dish to a whole new level. Traditional Alfredo sauce is made with butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, creating a thick and creamy texture that perfectly complements the stuffed shells. Some variations include garlic, nutmeg, or even a touch of white wine for extra depth of flavor.
If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use Greek yogurt for added protein. No matter how you prepare it, a good Alfredo sauce is what makes this dish rich and irresistible.
Variations and Customizations
One of the great things about Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells is that it’s highly adaptable. Whether you’re looking for a lighter version, a vegetarian option, or a way to add more veggies, here are some ideas to customize the dish to your liking:
1. Add Vegetables
For a healthier twist, incorporate vegetables into the filling. Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes add color, flavor, and nutrients. Simply sauté the vegetables before mixing them into the ricotta and chicken mixture for extra depth.
2. Swap the Protein
While shredded chicken is the classic choice, you can switch it up by using cooked ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even shrimp. If you prefer a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or a blend of ricotta and spinach for a meat-free alternative.
3. Try Different Cheeses
Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan are the classic trio, but you can experiment with different cheeses to enhance the flavor. Sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or smoked provolone add a unique twist to the filling and topping.
4. Make It Spicy
If you like a little heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce or mix some diced jalapeños into the filling. A drizzle of hot sauce on top before serving also adds a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: A side of warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the dish. Try a simple Caesar salad, arugula with balsamic dressing, or a Mediterranean-style salad with olives and feta cheese.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus adds color and texture to your meal. The slight char from roasting enhances their natural sweetness and provides a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, while a light red like Pinot Noir can also complement the dish without overpowering it.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, you’ll be happy to know that Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells store and reheat well.
Refrigeration:
Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a little extra Alfredo sauce to keep them from drying out.
Freezing:
This dish is freezer-friendly, making it a great option for meal prep. To freeze, assemble the stuffed shells in a baking dish, but don’t bake them. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.
Reheating:
To reheat, place the shells in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If using a microwave, heat individual portions on medium power to prevent overcooking the cheese.
Conclusion:
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells is a recipe that brings together comfort, flavor, and versatility in one delicious dish. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or a special occasion, this meal never fails to impress. With its creamy Alfredo sauce, cheesy stuffed shells, and endless customization options, it’s a dish that’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection.
So why not give it a try? Whether you stick to the classic version or add your own personal twist, this dish will quickly earn a spot on your list of favorite comfort foods. Serve it with your favorite sides, pour yourself a glass of wine, and enjoy the rich and satisfying flavors of homemade Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells.
