If you love creamy, cheesy meals like I do, then Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells will quickly become your favorite dish! These giant shells are stuffed with tender chicken, rich ricotta, and delicious Alfredo sauce. You'll learn how to make this easy dish from start to finish, plus useful tips and tasty variations. Get ready to dive into a cheesy delight that’s perfect for dinner any night of the week!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food Classic: This dish is the epitome of comfort food, combining creamy alfredo sauce with tender chicken and pasta for a satisfying meal.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare these stuffed shells in advance and bake them when you're ready, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
- Kid Approved: Kids love the cheesy, creamy goodness of these stuffed shells, making it an easy choice for family dinners.
- Customizable: This recipe is versatile, allowing you to add vegetables, swap proteins, or use different cheeses according to your preferences.
Ingredients
To make Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, you need a mix of tasty items. Here’s what you will need:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Each ingredient plays a key role. The jumbo pasta shells hold the creamy filling. The cooked chicken adds protein and flavor. Ricotta cheese gives a rich, smooth texture. Alfredo sauce makes everything creamy and delicious. Shredded mozzarella and Parmesan add a lovely cheesy topping. Garlic and onion powder bring extra taste. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper! Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Together, these ingredients create a delightful dish that is perfect for any meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the Oven: First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps to get the dish hot and bubbly.
2. Cook the Pasta Shells: Next, boil a large pot of salted water. Add 20 jumbo pasta shells and cook them as per the package. Once they are tender, drain them and let them cool a bit.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a big bowl, mix 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, and 1 cup of alfredo sauce. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well blended.
4. Stuff the Shells: Take each cooked shell and spoon the chicken mixture inside. Fill them generously for a tasty bite.
5. Assemble the Dish: Spread 1 cup of alfredo sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in the dish, open side up. Pour the rest of the alfredo sauce over the shells.
6. Add Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust.
7. Bake the Dish: Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes, then take off the foil. Bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, let the dish cool for a few minutes. Then, sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. Enjoy your creamy and cheesy delight!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
- To cook the pasta shells perfectly, boil them in salted water for 8-10 minutes. Make sure they are al dente, as they will cook more in the oven.
- For shredding chicken, use two forks to pull the meat apart. You can also use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment for quick shredding.
- To stuff the shells without spilling, use a small spoon or a piping bag. This helps you fill each shell neatly without making a mess.
Flavor Enhancements
- For added flavor, try spices like Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or crushed red pepper. These can give your dish a nice kick.
- Using homemade alfredo sauce is great for fresh taste. Store-bought is fine too, but homemade can elevate your dish with rich flavor.
Pro Tips
- Tip Title: Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and quality cheeses to elevate the flavor of your stuffed shells.
- Tip Title: Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the chicken filling for added texture and nutrition.
- Tip Title: Make Ahead: You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.
- Tip Title: Leftover Sauce: Use any leftover alfredo sauce as a drizzle over the baked shells before serving for extra creaminess.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can change the cheese in the filling. Try using cottage cheese or goat cheese. Both add a unique taste. You can also mix cheeses for a richer flavor.
Adding vegetables is another great option. Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers work well. Just sauté them first so they soften up. Mix them into your chicken filling. This makes the dish even more tasty and colorful.
Dietary Modifications
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta shells. Many stores offer these now. They cook similarly to regular shells, so no need to worry.
If you want a vegetarian option, skip the chicken. Use extra ricotta and some chopped spinach instead. You can also add some cooked lentils for protein. This way, you keep the creamy taste without meat.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. Make sure to let the shells cool down before sealing. In the fridge, they last for about 3 to 5 days. If you notice any changes in smell or texture, it's best to throw them away.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing is a great option if you want to save some for later. To freeze the stuffed shells, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Cover them with plastic wrap and place them in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer the shells to a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
When you're ready to eat the frozen shells, thaw them overnight in the fridge. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes. Cover with foil to keep them moist. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to help the cheese melt and brown. Enjoy your creamy and cheesy delight!
FAQs
Can I make Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells in advance?
Yes, you can make Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells ahead of time. Prepare the dish up to the baking step. Cover it tightly and chill in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This helps the shells heat through well.
What can I serve with stuffed shells?
Stuffed shells pair well with many sides. A fresh green salad adds a nice crunch. Garlic bread brings warmth and flavor to the meal. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans are healthy options too. You can also serve it with a light tomato sauce for dipping.
How do I know when they are fully cooked?
Check the stuffed shells after baking for 35-40 minutes. The cheese should be bubbly and golden. You can also insert a knife into the middle of a shell. If it feels hot and the filling is warm, they are ready to eat.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use other pasta shapes. Manicotti or cannelloni are great alternatives. Just make sure they are big enough to hold the filling. You can also use small pasta, but the cooking time may change.
In this post, we explored making Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells. We covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and cooking tips. I shared ideas for variations and dietary modifications, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dish.
Remember, you can customize it with different cheeses or veggies. Proper storage helps keep leftovers fresh. Cooking should be fun and easy. Enjoy your cooking journey with this tasty recipe!
