Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe

If you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinner game, the Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe is pure comfort in every bite. Imagine tender jumbo pasta shells brimming with juicy chicken breast, creamy Alfredo sauce, bright green broccoli, and oozy cheddar cheese, all nestled in a tangy layer of spaghetti sauce. This is the kind of meal that brings people together around the table, combining classic Italian flavors with a family-friendly twist. Whether you’re entertaining or simply indulging, this delightful casserole promises satisfaction all around.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe so fantastic is how each ingredient brings something essential to the table — from the heartiness of the chicken to the creaminess of the sauce. Get ready for a dish where every component has its own spotlight!

• Jumbo Shells Pasta: About 20 sturdy, generously sized shells are perfect for holding all that savory, cheesy filling.
• Shredded Cooked Chicken Breast (2 cups): Use rotisserie or leftover chicken for ease and extra flavor.
• Alfredo Sauce (1 jar, 16oz): Silky and rich, this is the base that brings creamy comfort to every bite.
• Steamed Broccoli (2 cups): Fresh, vibrant florets sneak in some green goodness and pair perfectly with the Alfredo.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Sharp cheddar melts beautifully, giving our filling a gooey, irresistible texture.
• Cooking Spray: Keeps those shells from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Spaghetti Sauce (2 cups): Adds a tangy, saucy layer beneath the shells for a little unexpected depth.

How to Make Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before anything else, set yourself up for success by prepping all the filling ingredients. Cook and shred your chicken breast if it’s not already done, steam the broccoli just until tender and bright green, and make sure your cheddar cheese is shredded and ready to go. Having everything on hand makes assembling the Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe a total snap.

Step 2: Cook the Jumbo Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook your jumbo shells according to the package instructions, but subtract one minute from the recommended time for the perfect al dente bite. Once cooked, immediately rinse them under cool water and drain thoroughly — this keeps them from sticking and makes them easier to handle while filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish

Give your baking dish a quick spritz with cooking spray, or brush with a little olive oil for extra flavor. Next, spread the spaghetti sauce evenly across the bottom of the dish. This tangy tomato layer not only prevents sticking, but it also adds a delicious Italian twist that complements the Alfredo filling beautifully.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, bring together the Alfredo sauce, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is evenly coated and combined, ensuring every bite of your Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe is packed with savory filling and gooey cheese.

Step 5: Fill and Arrange the Shells

Using a small spoon, fill each of the cooked jumbo shells with a generous scoop of the chicken and broccoli Alfredo mixture. Carefully arrange the stuffed shells filling-side up in your prepared baking dish, nestling them close together over the bed of spaghetti sauce. This not only looks beautiful but makes serving a breeze.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide your baking dish into a preheated oven at 350°F. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the filling is bubbling and piping hot, and the flavors have had a chance to meld together. Let the Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe cool for just a few minutes after baking so the filling sets up and is easy to serve.

How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe

Garnishes

Give your finished dish a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and brightness. Some extra shredded Parmesan on top never hurts, adding another layer of cheesy goodness that complements every forkful.

Side Dishes

Pair your Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe with a big green salad tossed in a zippy vinaigrette to balance out the creaminess of the casserole. Add some classic garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up all those luscious sauces left on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the shells individually on wide shallow bowls, spooning extra sauce from the baking dish over each portion. For a family-style approach, bring the entire bubbling casserole straight to the table for everyone to dig in — it’s guaranteed to get some “wows.” For a party, try arranging the filled shells in small ramekins for personalized, charming servings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe cool completely, then transfer them into airtight containers. They’ll keep perfectly in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them a tasty and convenient follow-up meal.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this dish either before or after baking. Just wrap the baking dish tightly with foil and freeze for up to two months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers, simply reheat the shells in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to prevent drying out, until they’re heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick, comforting lunch or dinner.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

While jumbo shells are ideal for stuffing, you could also use manicotti tubes or even layer the filling between cooked lasagna noodles for a similar effect.

What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?

Feel free to swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey jack, or an Italian cheese blend — all will give you fantastic melt and flavor.

Can I make the Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free jumbo shells and check both your Alfredo and spaghetti sauces to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.

Is there a way to add more vegetables?

Yes! Chopped spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted red peppers are all delicious additions to the filling and sneak in even more veggies.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You certainly can; assemble everything up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake — just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if starting super cold.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about gathering loved ones over a bubbling casserole of Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe. This dish is simple to prepare, endlessly comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and watch it become one of your go-to favorites, too!

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