Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

I love making Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells because they combine everything I enjoy about comfort food into one satisfying dish. Tender pasta shells are filled with a creamy mixture of chicken and cheese, then baked in a rich Alfredo sauce until bubbly and golden. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever I want a hearty meal that feels both comforting and impressive.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor in every bite. The jumbo pasta shells make an elegant presentation while being surprisingly easy to prepare. I also appreciate that it can be made ahead of time, making dinner planning much easier. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and melted cheese creates a dish that is always a crowd favorite.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 24 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

For the Alfredo sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

For topping:

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. I cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package directions until al dente, then drain and allow them to cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, I combine the chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
4. I mix the filling until everything is evenly combined.
5. For the Alfredo sauce, I melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
6. I add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
7. I pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
8. I gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
9. I season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
10. I spread about half of the Alfredo sauce across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
11. I fill each pasta shell with the chicken mixture and arrange them in the baking dish.
12. I pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
13. I sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top.
14. I cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
15. I remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
16. I garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• I sometimes add cooked spinach to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
• I occasionally use rotisserie chicken to save preparation time.
• I like adding sautéed mushrooms for additional texture and richness.
• I sometimes substitute part of the mozzarella with provolone cheese for a different flavor profile.

storage/reheating

I store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. I can also microwave individual portions, although the oven helps maintain the best texture. For longer storage, I freeze the baked shells for up to 3 months and thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble the dish up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until I am ready to bake it.

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Yes, I can use a prepared Alfredo sauce when I need a quicker option, although homemade sauce provides the freshest flavor.

What type of chicken works best?

I like using shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken breast, or leftover roasted chicken for convenience and flavor.

Can I freeze the stuffed shells?

Yes, I can freeze them either before or after baking. I make sure they are tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

How do I keep the shells from tearing?

I cook the pasta just until al dente and handle the shells gently while filling them to help prevent tearing.

Conclusion

I find Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells to be a rich and comforting meal that combines creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy pasta into one delicious dish. The recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Whether I prepare it fresh or make it ahead of time, it is always a satisfying meal that everyone enjoys.

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