Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe – Creamy, Cheesy, and Easy to Make

Imagine the perfect balance between creamy, cheesy Alfredo sauce and tender pasta filled with juicy shredded chicken. Chicken Alfredo stuffed shells bring comfort food to a whole new level. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish delivers both flavor and presentation. It’s hearty, indulgent, and surprisingly easy to make from scratch. The blend of Italian-inspired flavors and textures makes it a winner on any dinner table.

Stuffed shells are a popular Italian-American dish, but when you add creamy Alfredo sauce and shredded chicken into the mix, it transforms into something truly special. The best part? You don’t need to be a professional chef to master this recipe. With a bit of prep and a few fresh ingredients, you can turn a weeknight dinner into a meal worth savoring.

Comfort food often gets a bad rap for being too rich or time-consuming, but this version of chicken Alfredo stuffed shells strikes the perfect balance. It’s creamy without being too heavy, flavorful without needing fancy ingredients, and versatile enough to suit many dietary preferences.

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Ingredients Needed

To make this crowd-pleasing dish, gather the ingredients listed below. Each one plays an important role in bringing out the best flavors and textures.

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories (approx.)
Jumbo pasta shells	20 shells	300
Cooked chicken (shredded)	2 cups	400
Alfredo sauce	2 cups	500
Ricotta cheese	1 cup	300
Mozzarella cheese (shredded)	1 ½ cups	480
Parmesan cheese (grated)	½ cup	215
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves	10
Fresh parsley (chopped)	2 tablespoons	5
Italian seasoning	1 teaspoon	5
Salt	To taste	0
Black pepper	To taste	0
Olive oil	1 tablespoon	120

Total estimated calories for the entire recipe: 2,335 (based on average brand values)

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making chicken Alfredo stuffed shells is simple if you follow the process step by step. The recipe serves four to six people, depending on portion size.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente, usually around 9 to 11 minutes. Avoid overcooking as the shells will continue to bake in the oven. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.You’ll also want to try Stuffed Shells Ricotta_ for another tasty option.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until fully combined. You can use store-bought rotisserie chicken or any leftover chicken you have on hand.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Gently open each shell and fill it with the chicken and cheese mixture. Use a spoon to help guide the filling inside. Don’t overstuff them to avoid tearing the shells.

Step 4: Layer the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a baking dish, spread about half a cup of Alfredo sauce on the bottom. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the top, ensuring every shell is covered.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and a bit more Parmesan over the top for that irresistible cheesy crust.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan for added flavor and a pop of color.

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Tips for Customizing the Recipe

One of the reasons this dish is a favorite in so many households is how easily it can be adapted. Here are some ways to make it your own:

• Add Vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or even broccoli can be added to the filling or layered in the dish for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Use a Different Sauce: Swap Alfredo for a pink sauce (half Alfredo, half marinara) for a different twist.
• Go Spicy: Mix a pinch of red pepper flakes into the filling or sauce for a subtle heat.
• Make It Lighter: Use part-skim cheeses and a lighter Alfredo sauce or Greek yogurt to cut down on calories.
• Change the Protein: Substitute shredded turkey or even cooked shrimp for the chicken if you’re feeling adventurous.

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Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings total):

These values may vary depending on brands and substitutions used, so it’s always a good idea to calculate based on your exact ingredients if you’re following a specific diet.

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Serving Suggestions

Chicken Alfredo stuffed shells are quite rich, so pairing them with lighter sides works beautifully. A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette balances the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or roasted vegetables also complement the dish nicely. For a refreshing drink, try iced tea with lemon or a glass of chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio.

If you’re serving a crowd, double the recipe and use a larger baking dish. These stuffed shells also reheat well, making them a great option for meal prep or next-day leftovers.

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FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time.

Can I freeze chicken Alfredo stuffed shells?
Absolutely. Assemble the dish, but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

What kind of chicken works best?
Any cooked chicken will do. Rotisserie chicken saves time, but you can also use grilled, baked, or even leftover chicken breast or thighs.

Is store-bought Alfredo sauce okay?
Yes, store-bought sauce works fine for convenience. If you want a richer flavor, try making your own with butter, cream, garlic, and Parmesan.

How do I prevent the shells from breaking?
Cook them just until al dente and handle gently during stuffing. Rinsing them with cold water after boiling also helps keep them intact.

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Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo stuffed shells are the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with eager appetites. It’s a dish that looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to prepare. With creamy cheese, tender pasta, and rich Alfredo sauce in every bite, it’s a guaranteed hit for both casual dinners and special occasions.