Savory Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe

October 20, 2025November 1, 2024 by Chef Evan

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 12 jumbo pasta shells

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 1 cup ricotta cheese

– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

– 2 cups homemade or store-bought Alfredo sauce

– 1 tablespoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

To make the Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, you need a few simple items. First, grab 12 jumbo pasta shells. These large shells hold the filling well.

Next, use 2 cups of cooked chicken. You can shred it yourself or buy pre-cooked chicken. It saves time!

For the cheeses, gather 1 cup of ricotta, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan. These cheeses create a creamy filling and add rich flavor.

Next, you need 2 cups of Alfredo sauce. You can use homemade sauce or store-bought for convenience.

For seasoning, you will need 1 tablespoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste. These spices enhance the dish.

Finally, chop some fresh parsley for garnish. It adds a nice pop of color and freshness when serving.

This list keeps the recipe simple yet delicious!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheating the oven

First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for even cooking.

2. Cooking the pasta shells

Boil salted water in a large pot. Add the jumbo pasta shells. Cook them until they are al dente, which means they should still have a slight bite. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool.

3. Mixing the filling ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and the Parmesan cheese. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until it is smooth and creamy.

Assembly Steps

1. Spreading the Alfredo sauce

Pour half of the Alfredo sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly. This sauce keeps the shells moist.

2. Stuffing the shells

Take each cooked pasta shell and fill it with the chicken and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells open side up in the baking dish. Make sure they are snug but not overcrowded.

3. Layering and baking instructions

Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the stuffed shells. Ensure all shells are well-coated. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top for that melty finish.

Final Cooking Steps

1. Covering and baking

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This helps the flavors blend.

2. Finishing touches and garnishing

After 25 minutes, remove the foil. Bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Once out of the oven, let it cool for a bit. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

To achieve perfect al dente pasta, follow these steps:

– Use plenty of water: Boil a large pot of salted water. The salt adds flavor.

– Timing is key: Check the package for cook time. Set a timer a minute early.

– Taste test: The pasta should be firm yet tender. If it’s soft, it’s overcooked.

For shredding chicken, here are some easy techniques:

– Use cooked chicken: Start with rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken.

– Two forks method: Hold one fork steady and use the second to pull the chicken apart.

– Stand mixer hack: Place chicken in a mixer with a paddle. Mix on low speed until shredded.

Serving Suggestions

For a great presentation, try these tips:

– Individual plates: Serve each stuffed shell on a plate. Drizzle extra Alfredo sauce on top.

– Garnish: Add a sprig of fresh parsley for color and freshness.

– Cheese sprinkle: A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan adds visual appeal.

The best side dishes to pair with Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells include:

– Garlic bread: It’s perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

– Caesar salad: The crisp greens balance the rich flavors.

– Steamed veggies: Broccoli or green beans add a healthy touch and color.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can change the cheese in the recipe to fit your taste. If you want a lighter option, try cottage cheese. It gives a nice texture without being too heavy. For a fun twist, use feta cheese. It adds a tangy flavor that works well with chicken.

Next, consider using different types of protein. You can swap out chicken for turkey or even shrimp. Both options bring a new flavor profile to the dish. If you want a vegetarian option, try using mushrooms or spinach. They add great taste and texture.

Flavor Variations

Adding vegetables can elevate your filling. You can mix in chopped spinach or bell peppers. They not only add color but also boost nutrition. Zucchini or mushrooms can also be great choices. Just sauté them lightly before mixing.

To spice up the Alfredo sauce, try adding some heat. A pinch of red pepper flakes can make a big difference. You can also mix in some herbs like basil or thyme. These will give the sauce a fresh, vibrant flavor. Experimenting with these ideas can make your Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells unique every time you make them.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells fresh, use airtight containers. Make sure to let them cool first. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. This way, they stay creamy and tasty. If you want to keep them longer, freezing works great too. To freeze, wrap the shells in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want to eat them, just take out what you need.

Reheating Instructions

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is key. Avoid the microwave if you can. Instead, use the oven for the best texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep moisture in. Heat them for about 20 minutes, or until they are warm. If you want to add a little more cheese, sprinkle some on top before reheating. This gives you that bubbly, cheesy goodness again.

FAQs

Common Questions

Can I make Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these stuffed shells ahead of time. Just prepare the dish, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I substitute for Alfredo sauce?

You can use a white sauce or a homemade cheese sauce. For a lighter option, try a creamy cauliflower sauce. This gives a nice flavor without the heaviness of Alfredo.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, skip the chicken and add more vegetables. Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini work great in the filling. You can also use a meat substitute if you prefer.

Cooking & Serving Questions

How long do I bake the stuffed shells?

Bake the stuffed shells for 25 minutes covered with foil. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes. This helps the cheese melt and brown nicely.

What’s the best way to reheat stuffed shells?

To reheat, place the shells in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This keeps them moist and warm.

Can I use regular pasta shells instead of jumbo?

Yes, you can use regular pasta shells. Just note that you will need to adjust the filling amount. Smaller shells may require less filling, so keep that in mind when stuffing them.

In this article, we explored how to make Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells. We covered ingredients, steps, tips, and variations. You learned how to prepare great flavors and textures, plus ways to store your dish. Remember, keeping it simple makes cooking fun. Enjoy making this tasty meal, and don’t be afraid to get creative. With these tips, you’ll impress everyone at the table. Happy cookin