There’s something truly special about the warmth of a home-cooked meal, and my creamy chicken alfredo stuffed shells are a perfect example of that cozy comfort. Imagine this: you’ve had a long day, and the thought of a hearty dinner awaits you. These stuffed shells, filled with tender chicken and cheesy goodness, are just the ticket! The creamy texture of the alfredo sauce envelops each shell, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Plus, they’re so simple to prepare, making them a fantastic option for family dinners or when friends drop by unexpectedly. Trust me, once you try these chicken alfredo stuffed shells, you’ll be making them again and again!
Ingredients List
You’ll need a few simple ingredients to whip up these delicious chicken alfredo stuffed shells. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 large pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups alfredo sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients come together to create a creamy, cheesy filling that makes each bite absolutely heavenly! Adjust the cheeses or add your favorite seasonings if you want to get creative.
How to Prepare Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Getting these chicken alfredo stuffed shells ready is a breeze, and I promise they’ll be worth every minute of your time! Let’s dive right into the steps:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for getting that perfect bubbly finish!
- While the oven warms up, cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions. You want them al dente, so they hold up when stuffed.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, grated parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Now, it’s time to stuff each shell with that creamy chicken mixture. Don’t be shy—fill them up!
- Spread half of the alfredo sauce on the bottom of a baking dish to keep things from sticking. Place the stuffed shells in the dish and pour the remaining alfredo sauce over the top.
- Finally, sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top and pop the dish into the oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until everything is bubbly and golden. Wow, the smell will be incredible!
And there you have it! In just about 50 minutes, you’ll have a comforting dish that will make everyone at the table smile.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These chicken alfredo stuffed shells are a total game-changer for busy weeknights! Here’s why you’ll adore making them:
- Quick preparation time, so you can get dinner on the table fast.
- Deliciously creamy and cheesy, satisfying even the pickiest eaters.
- Versatile—feel free to add your favorite veggies or change up the cheeses!
- Perfect for meal prep; they reheat beautifully for lunch the next day.
- Impressive enough for guests, yet easy enough for a casual family dinner.
Trust me, once you try these stuffed shells, you’ll be hooked!
Tips for Success
To make sure your chicken alfredo stuffed shells turn out perfectly, here are some of my top tips! First, if you’re short on time, using rotisserie chicken is a game-changer—just shred it up and you’re good to go. Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasonings based on your taste; a little extra garlic or even some red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick!
Also, feel free to sneak in some veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. And remember, keeping an eye on the baking time is key! You want them bubbly and golden but not overcooked. Trust me, these little adjustments can elevate your dish to the next level!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. While I haven’t provided precise nutritional data, you can expect a hearty serving of flavor alongside a good balance of protein, carbs, and fats. It’s always a good idea to check the labels on your ingredients for the most accurate information!
FAQ Section
I know you might have a few questions about these chicken alfredo stuffed shells, so let’s tackle them together!
Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! While I love the classic ricotta and mozzarella combo, you can mix it up with cheeses like provolone or even a bit of goat cheese for a unique flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture might change slightly.
What if I don’t have cooked chicken? No problem! You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or even cook some chicken breasts in advance. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or spinach!
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave; just make sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Can I freeze these stuffed shells? Yes! They freeze well before baking. Just assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and pop it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Feel free to experiment with ingredients and make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers of your delicious chicken alfredo stuffed shells is super easy! Just place any uneaten shells in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to save them for later, you can also freeze them before baking. Just make sure to cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
When it’s time to reheat, the best method is to bake them in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil for about 20 minutes to keep them from drying out. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until they’re heated through and bubbly. Trust me, this way, they’ll taste just as good as when you first made them!
Serving Suggestions
To make your chicken alfredo stuffed shells meal even more delightful, consider pairing them with a fresh, crisp salad. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the stuffed shells perfectly! You could also serve some garlic bread on the side for that extra comfort factor—who doesn’t love a good piece of bread to soak up any leftover alfredo sauce?
If you’re feeling adventurous, a side of roasted vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, adds a nice pop of color and nutrition to the plate. Trust me, these sides will elevate your meal to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Print
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells: 5 Cozy Comfort Bites
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy chicken alfredo stuffed shells filled with tender chicken and cheese.
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups alfredo sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each shell with the chicken mixture.
- Spread half of the alfredo sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with remaining alfredo sauce.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: chicken alfredo stuffed shells, stuffed pasta, chicken pasta dish
