Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Easy and Tasty Recipe

If you're craving a comforting meal that's both easy and delicious, you must try Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells! This dish combines tender jumbo pasta shells, creamy Alfredo sauce, and juicy chicken for a flavor explosion. I’ll guide you through each step in making this hearty dish your family will love. Let’s get cooking and fill those shells with happiness!

Ingredients

List of Required 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 teaspoon garlic powder

- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Gather these ingredients before you start. Jumbo pasta shells are the star of this dish. They hold the creamy filling well. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for ease. Ricotta cheese adds creaminess, while mozzarella gives that gooey texture we love. Parmesan cheese brings a sharp flavor. The Alfredo sauce ties everything together with its rich taste.

Don’t forget the garlic powder and Italian seasoning. They add depth to the filling. Salt and pepper enhance the flavors. Finally, fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds a pop of color. With these ingredients, you’re set to make a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of the Pasta

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step helps the dish cook evenly. Next, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package. Aim for al dente, which means they should be firm but not hard. After cooking, drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.

Preparing the Filling

In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken and cheeses. You'll need ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture well. This filling should be creamy and tasty.

Assembling the Dish

Now, it's time to stuff the shells. Carefully fill each shell with the chicken and cheese mix. Place them seam-side up in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Once all shells are filled, pour the Alfredo sauce evenly over them. Make sure each shell is covered in sauce. Then, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan on top.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

- Achieving the perfect al dente pasta: First, read the package instructions. Cook the jumbo shells for 1-2 minutes less than stated. This keeps them firm. After cooking, drain and lightly rinse with cold water. This helps stop the cooking process and keeps them from becoming mushy.

- Preventing shells from breaking: Use a large pot for boiling. Make sure to add salt to the water. This adds flavor and helps keep the shells intact. When draining, be gentle. Avoid tossing them too hard, as they can crack easily.

Flavor Enhancements

- Suggestions for additional spices: You can add more garlic powder or some crushed red pepper. A pinch of nutmeg adds warmth too. Experiment with smoked paprika for a unique twist. These spices will boost the flavor of your filling.

- Using different cheeses: You can switch out mozzarella for provolone or gouda. Adding a bit of cream cheese can make the filling creamier. Feel free to mix cheeses to create your favorite blend.

Presentation Suggestions

- Plating tips and garnishes: Serve the stuffed shells on a big plate. Drizzle extra Alfredo sauce around them for a nice look. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for color and freshness.

- Serving ideas with other dishes: Pair these shells with a side salad or garlic bread. A light tomato salad works well too. These sides balance the rich flavors of the Alfredo sauce.

Variations

Alternative Proteins

You can switch chicken for turkey or shrimp. Both options taste great. Turkey offers a leaner choice. Shrimp adds a nice seafood twist. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, use spinach as your main filling. Mix cooked spinach with ricotta for a creamy texture. This keeps the dish rich and satisfying.

Sauce Variations

While store-bought Alfredo sauce is quick, homemade sauce shines too. You can make it with butter, cream, and parmesan for a richer flavor. If you want to try something new, consider marinara or pesto sauce. Marinara gives a fresh taste, while pesto adds a herby note to the shells.

Add-Ins

Want to boost flavor? Add more veggies to your filling. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini work well. Herbs like basil or thyme can also elevate the dish. For those who enjoy heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. This adds a spicy kick that balances the creaminess of the sauce.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

After you enjoy your Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, store leftovers in a good container. Use an airtight container to keep them fresh. Glass or plastic containers work well. Let the shells cool to room temperature before sealing. This helps prevent condensation and sogginess. Store the leftovers in the fridge. They stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days.

Reheating Instructions

You can reheat your stuffed shells in two ways: the microwave or the oven. Each method has its perks. For the microwave, place a shell on a plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel. This keeps the moisture in, so it won’t dry out. Heat in 30-second bursts until warm.

For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the shells in a baking dish. Add a bit of Alfredo sauce on top to keep them creamy. Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes. This method keeps the texture nice and the flavors intact.

Freezing Options

You can freeze Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells before or after baking. If you freeze them before baking, stuff the shells and place them in a container. Cover tightly and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, bake as usual.

If you freeze them after baking, let the dish cool completely. Cover it well with foil or plastic wrap. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge first. Then follow the oven method to warm them back up.

FAQs

How long do stuffed shells take to cook?

Stuffed shells take about 30 to 35 minutes to cook in the oven. First, you bake them covered for 20 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an extra 10 to 15 minutes. This ensures the cheese melts and gets bubbly.

Can I prepare them ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells ahead of time. Stuff the shells and place them in the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, just bake them longer since they are cold.

What's the best way to reheat Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells?

The best way to reheat stuffed shells is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shells in a baking dish and cover them with foil. Heat for about 20 to 25 minutes. This keeps them moist and tasty.

Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap the dish tightly. When you're ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, then cook as usual.

What can I serve with Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells?

These stuffed shells go well with a fresh salad or garlic bread. You can also serve them with steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I add more cheese?

Yes! Feel free to add more mozzarella or even cheddar for extra flavor. Cheese lovers will appreciate the extra gooeyness.

Can I use store-bought sauces?

Definitely! Store-bought Alfredo sauce saves time and still tastes great. Just make sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best results.

This recipe for Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells is simple and tasty. You learned about the key ingredients and step-by-step instructions. I shared useful tips to cook pasta perfectly and make your dish shine. You also saw various ways to change the flavors and store leftovers.

Now, you can impress your friends and family with this comforting meal. Get cooking and enjoy every bite of your delicious stuffed shells!