If you have ever wanted a comforting yet elegant dish that brings creamy, cheesy goodness and tender chicken together, you are in for a treat. This Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe is pure comfort food, featuring jumbo pasta shells generously filled with a luscious mixture of ricotta, chicken, and Italian seasonings, all baked under a blanket of rich Alfredo sauce and melty cheese. It is the perfect dish to impress your loved ones or to enjoy a cozy night in with great flavor and satisfying textures in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together this Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe is straightforward with simple, but carefully chosen ingredients that each contribute to its irresistible taste, texture, and color.
- 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells: These large shells hold just the right amount of filling and become perfectly tender when cooked al dente.
- 1 egg (lightly beaten): Acts as a binder to keep the filling creamy and well-set during baking.
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese: Adds a smooth, mild creaminess that balances the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided): Brings gooey meltiness and mild flavor, sprinkled inside and on top.
- ¾ cup shredded parmesan cheese (divided): Offers a nutty, sharp bite that enhances the depth of the dish.
- â…“ cup sour cream: Gives a subtle tang and extra creaminess to the filling.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Provides a fragrant blend of herbs that lift the flavors beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Perfectly seasons the filling without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon black ground pepper: Adds a gentle peppery bite for balance.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded): The protein star that keeps the dish hearty and satisfying.
- 15 ounces Alfredo sauce: The creamy sauce that blankets the shells, tying all the flavors together.
- Chopped fresh parsley: A bright, fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and herbaceous lift.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This simple prep step ensures your stuffed shells won’t stick and your oven will be ready to bake your masterpiece.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells
Boil a large pot of water and cook the jumbo pasta shells until just al dente. Draining and placing them upside down on a baking sheet helps them dry and prevents sticking, making stuffing each shell easier later on.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the beaten egg, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, ¼ cup parmesan, sour cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix these creamy ingredients together thoroughly to create a smooth, flavorful base. Then gently fold in the shredded cooked chicken, distributing it evenly for every bite.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells
Grab each pasta shell and generously fill it with the chicken and cheese mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells open side up in the prepared baking dish, nestling them closely so they bake evenly and hold their shape.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese
Pour the Alfredo sauce evenly over the shells, making sure each one is coated with that luscious creaminess. Then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheeses on top to form a golden, bubbly crust once baked.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes to let the flavors meld and the shells heat through. Remove the foil and bake another 10 minutes for that perfect bubbly finish. For an extra golden top, broil for 1 to 3 minutes, watching carefully so the cheese doesn’t burn.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh, colorful touch. Serve warm and delight in the rich, comforting flavors of your homemade Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is classic, but you can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a gentle spice kick or a dash of lemon zest to brighten the creamy dish. A little extra grated parmesan at the table invites guests to personalize their servings.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add a wonderful textural contrast and a healthy component to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, serve individual portions on elegant plates garnished with sprigs of fresh herbs. Alternatively, offer a communal baked dish for a cozy family-style meal where everyone can scoop out these cheesy, chicken-filled shells straight from the dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe should be cooled to room temperature, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making great next-day lunches or light dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze the stuffed shells before baking by arranging them in a freezer-safe dish and covering tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months, then bake from frozen with a slightly longer cooking time.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the shells with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. To maintain their creamy texture, avoid microwaving for extended periods as it can dry them out.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for this Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe and adds a wonderful flavor without extra prep.
Is it necessary to boil the pasta shells fully before stuffing?
Yes, cooking the shells until al dente is important so they are pliable enough to stuff but not mushy after baking.
Can I make the filling dairy-free?
While traditional ricotta and parmesan give authentic creaminess, there are dairy-free alternatives you can substitute to accommodate dietary needs, but expect slight texture differences.
Can I substitute Alfredo sauce with homemade sauce?
Definitely! A homemade Alfredo sauce made with butter, cream, and parmesan will elevate the dish even more with a fresh, rich flavor.
How do I avoid the shells sticking to each other?
Placing cooked shells on a baking sheet upside down to dry, as well as spacing the stuffed shells closely but not touching in the baking dish, helps prevent sticking.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe is a total winner for anyone seeking a deliciously creamy, cheesy, and comforting meal that feels special but comes together effortlessly. I can’t wait for you to try it out and share it with your favorite people — it’s one of those recipes that’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
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Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Delicious Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells combine jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, sour cream, and tender shredded chicken, all baked in a rich Alfredo sauce until bubbly and golden. This hearty Italian-American casserole is perfect for a family dinner or gathering, offering a comforting and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Pasta Shells
- 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells (1 standard package)
Cheese and Dairy Mixture
- 1 egg (lightly beaten)
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ¾ cup shredded parmesan cheese (divided)
- â…“ cup sour cream
Seasonings and Extras
- 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: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray and set it aside to prepare for assembling the stuffed shells.
- Cook Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over the stovetop. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente, following package instructions (usually about 9-12 minutes). Drain well, then arrange the shells upside down on a baking sheet to dry and cool slightly.
- Prepare Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lightly beaten egg, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, sour cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well combined. Gently fold in the shredded cooked chicken to evenly distribute it in the mixture.
- Stuff Shells: Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the prepared cheese and chicken filling. Place the stuffed shells side by side with the open end facing up in the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour and spread the Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese on top to create a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden. For a beautifully browned top, broil for 1 to 3 minutes watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and added flavor. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting and cheesy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add minced garlic or onion powder to the cheese filling.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add depth of flavor.
- If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt can be substituted for a tangy twist.
- Make sure not to overcook pasta shells to avoid them breaking when stuffed.
- This dish can be prepared ahead by assembling it and refrigerating for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Use gluten-free pasta shells to make this recipe gluten-free.
