Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Recipe By:
jesseca
Updated:

Chicken Alfredo stuffed shells are a perfect weeknight meal that everyone loves! Picture this: tender jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy, cheesy chicken mixture, smothered in rich Alfredo sauce, and baked to golden perfection. It’s cozy, indulgent, and always a hit, whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or wowing your friends at a get-together. The great thing is, you don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip this up. It’s all about layering flavors and making your kitchen smell heavenly. Plus, the best part? You can customize the filling to fit your taste or diet. So grab your apron, and let’s get started. You’re just a few steps away from a delicious plate of chicken alfredo stuffed shells!

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Why This Recipe Works

Let’s talk about why this recipe is such a hit. First, the creamy texture of the Alfredo sauce blends beautifully with the cheesy filling, creating a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for seconds. It’s a comforting combination that warms your soul. Second, cooking the jumbo pasta shells al dente is crucial. This helps them hold their shape and texture during baking, ensuring you enjoy every bite without a mushy mess. Last but not least, the mix of various cheeses elevates the flavors in this dish and makes every bite a cheesy delight. Trust me—the rich taste is more than worth it!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

You’ll simply adore this chicken Alfredo stuffed shells dish! It’s comfort food taken to the next level with its indulgent, heartwarming flavors. The melty cheese and creamy sauce create a harmonious blend that’s undeniably satisfying. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Even though it looks impressive enough for entertaining, you can easily whip it up on a busy weeknight. And if you’re concerned about dietary preferences, worry not! You can customize it to fit everyone’s needs while still delivering the same delicious experience. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, and everyone will be asking for your secret recipe!

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Ingredients

To make chicken Alfredo stuffed shells, gather the following ingredients:

  • 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells (1 standard package)
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • ¾ cup shredded parmesan cheese, divided
  • ⅓ cup sour cream
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black ground pepper
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 15 ounces Alfredo sauce (1 standard jar)
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Making the Filling for Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Prepare the Oven and Pasta

First, preheat your oven to 375°F. As it warms up, lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray and set it aside. Now, in a pot, bring water to a boil and cook those jumbo pasta shells until they’re al dente. When they’re just right, drain the shells and turn them upside down on a baking sheet to dry. Let’s face it, nobody wants soggy shells!

Combine Ingredients for the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, mix together the beaten egg, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, ¼ cup of parmesan cheese, sour cream, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Take your time mixing until everything is well combined. Then, fold in the shredded chicken gently. This is the filling that will bring the delightful flavors you’re aiming for!

Stuff the Pasta Shells

Now comes the fun part—stuffing the pasta shells! Carefully fill each shell with the prepared filling, making sure the open side is facing up. Place them snugly in the prepared baking dish. It’s okay if a little filling spills out; it just adds to the yumminess!

Add Alfredo Sauce

Once all the shells are filled, it’s time to add the Alfredo sauce. Spread the sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, making sure each one is well-coated. To take it a step further, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheeses on top. This gives that extra cheesy finish you know you want!

Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with foil and pop it in the oven to bake for 25 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. If you’re like me and love a crisp top, turn on the broiler for 1-3 minutes at the end to get that perfect golden cheese finish. Once done, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. It’s time to enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Now that your chicken Alfredo stuffed shells are ready, think about how to serve them for that perfect meal experience. Here are a few ideas:

  • Pair with a side salad for a refreshing contrast that lightens up the dish.
  • Complement it with garlic bread, which is perfect for soaking up that delicious Alfredo sauce.
  • Enjoy with a light white wine like Chardonnay for that extra touch of elegance.

Tips for Success

To set this dish up for success, keep these useful tips in mind:

  • Make sure you don’t overcook the pasta shells. They should stay firm so they can hold the filling and sustain the baking process.
  • For a quicker prep time, consider using rotisserie chicken. It’ll save you extra cooking time!
  • After baking, let the shells sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to settle and makes it easier to serve.

Variations

Feel free to get a little creative with your dish! Here are some fun variations to try:

  • Add spinach or other vegetables to the filling for an extra nutrient boost.
  • Choose whole wheat or gluten-free pasta shells for a healthier spin.
  • Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Havarti for unique flavor twists. Who says you have to stick to the classics?

FAQs

1. Can I prepare Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare everything in advance. Just assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Easy peasy!

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat and enjoy!

3. Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked stuffed shells. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from frozen, adding a bit more time to the cooking process.

4. What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese works nicely as a substitute for ricotta. Just give it a quick blend for a smoother texture.

5. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Chicken Alfredo stuffed shells are perfect for meal prep, making reheating and serving a breeze throughout the week.

This comforting dish of chicken Alfredo stuffed shells promises to delight any pasta lover. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect family meal or a dish to impress guests. With a straightforward preparation process and plenty of options for personalization, you’ll want to keep this recipe handy for future gatherings. Enjoy exploring the nuances of cheesy goodness while creating delicious memories at your dining table!

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Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

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Chicken Alfredo stuffed shells are a delightful comfort food. They combine tender pasta with a creamy, cheesy filling, making it a crowd-pleaser for meals or gatherings.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells (1 standard package)
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • ¾ cup shredded parmesan cheese, divided
  • ⅓ cup sour cream
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black ground pepper
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 15 ounces Alfredo sauce (1 standard jar)
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F and prepare a baking dish.
  • Cook pasta shells until al dente, then drain and let dry.
  • Mix egg, ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, ¼ cup parmesan, sour cream, seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl, then fold in chicken.
  • Stuff each shell with the filling and place in the baking dish.
  • Spread Alfredo sauce over the shells and sprinkle remaining cheeses on top.
  • Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly. Optionally broil for a golden finish.
  • Garnish with parsley and serve.

Notes

Ensure the shells are not overcooked to maintain their shape.
Rotisserie chicken can be used for quicker preparation.
Let the dish sit for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.

  • Author: jesseca
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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