Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells

by

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a satisfying, hearty, and comforting meal that combines the best of Italian and American cuisines, Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells should be on your radar. This recipe is a creative twist on the traditional stuffed shells and takes comfort food to the next level. The rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, paired with tender chicken, perfectly cooked broccoli, and melty cheeses, fills the large pasta shells with flavor and heartiness, making it an ideal choice for dinner.

The beauty of this dish lies in its balance—each stuffed shell offers a mouthful of savory goodness, with layers of textures. The chicken is shredded to perfection, complementing the soft broccoli and creamy ricotta filling, all enveloped in a silky Alfredo sauce and topped with a golden layer of mozzarella cheese. Plus, the addition of garlic powder and Italian seasoning adds an aromatic kick that will keep everyone coming back for more.

One of the best parts about this recipe is its versatility. It’s filling enough for a complete meal but can easily be customized to suit personal preferences. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a gathering, or preparing a weeknight dinner, Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells offer a fantastic way to bring comfort food to your table.

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells

What You’ll Need

To make Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a delicious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 20-25 large pasta shells (jumbo shells work best)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
  • 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients may look simple, but they come together to create a dish that’s anything but basic. The jumbo pasta shells serve as the perfect vessel for the creamy filling, while the chicken, broccoli, and cheese create the savory base. You can opt for homemade Alfredo sauce or store-bought for convenience—either way, the results will be delicious.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta Shells The first step in making this dish is to cook the pasta shells. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions, usually for about 8-10 minutes. Since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, it’s important to cook the shells al dente. Once cooked, drain the shells and set them aside to cool. If you’re worried about the shells sticking together, toss them with a little olive oil while they cool.
  2. Prepare the Chicken While the pasta shells are cooking, you can focus on the chicken. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook them until they’re no longer pink in the center, about 6-8 minutes per side. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Once it’s cool enough to handle, shred the chicken using two forks. Set the shredded chicken aside for later.
  3. Steam or Blanch the Broccoli Next, steam or blanch the broccoli florets. If you choose to steam, place the broccoli in a steam basket over simmering water for about 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green. Alternatively, you can blanch the broccoli by briefly boiling it for 1-2 minutes and then transferring it to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This method helps preserve the broccoli’s color and crunch. After draining, chop the broccoli into small pieces to make it easier to stuff inside the pasta shells.
  4. Prepare the Stuffed Shells Filling In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Add the shredded chicken and chopped broccoli to the mixture, then stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Taste the mixture and add salt and pepper as needed to season the filling. The ricotta will create a creamy texture, while the mozzarella and Parmesan will provide flavor and a gooey melt.
  5. Assemble the Stuffed Shells Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish (a 9×13-inch dish works well). This helps prevent the shells from sticking and adds extra flavor to the bottom layer. Carefully stuff each pasta shell with the chicken, broccoli, and cheese mixture. It’s helpful to use a spoon to pack the filling into each shell, but don’t overstuff them to the point where they break.
  6. Top with Alfredo Sauce and Cheese Once all the pasta shells are filled and placed in the baking dish, pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the top of the shells. Be sure to cover them completely to ensure the pasta absorbs all the creamy goodness. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top for a melty, golden finish. If you prefer a more decadent finish, you can add an extra layer of Parmesan cheese as well.
  7. Bake the Stuffed Shells Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly. Bake the stuffed shells in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and lightly golden on top. The stuffed shells should be heated through, with a crispy, cheesy top layer.
  8. Garnish and Serve Once the Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells are out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top to add a burst of color and a touch of freshness. This also enhances the visual appeal of the dish. Serve the stuffed shells hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success

  • Alfredo Sauce: If you’re using store-bought Alfredo sauce, be sure to pick a high-quality brand. Homemade Alfredo sauce, however, is always a great option and can be made in advance to save time. Use butter, heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese to create a rich and creamy sauce that complements the stuffed shells perfectly.
  • Avoid Overcooking the Pasta Shells: It’s crucial not to overcook the pasta shells before stuffing them, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Aim for al dente pasta shells that hold their shape but are still tender when you bite into them.
  • Chicken Shredding Tip: If you want to save time, consider using rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken to skip the cooking process. Just shred the chicken and use it in place of freshly cooked chicken breasts.
  • Customize the Filling: Feel free to experiment with the filling. You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor or swap out the ricotta for cottage cheese for a different texture.
  • Make It Ahead: You can prepare this dish ahead of time by assembling the stuffed shells in the baking dish and covering them with foil. Refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. When ready to bake, let the dish sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.

Variations to Try

  • Add Bacon: For a smoky, salty flavor, try adding crumbled cooked bacon to the filling. Bacon pairs wonderfully with the creamy Alfredo sauce and adds a savory element that complements the chicken and broccoli.
  • Vegetarian Option: To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables. Mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers would work well in place of the chicken.
  • Gluten-Free Version: If you need to make this dish gluten-free, swap out the regular pasta shells for gluten-free pasta shells. There are several options available in most grocery stores that will still hold up well when baked.
  • Spicy Variation: For a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling or sprinkle some spicy seasoning on top before baking.
  • Cheese Lovers Version: Increase the cheese factor by adding ricotta or mascarpone to the filling for a creamier texture. You could even try adding a blend of different cheeses, such as provolone or gouda, for a unique twist.

Storing and Reheating

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells make great leftovers. You can store any leftover portions in the refrigerator or freeze them for later.

  • Storing Leftovers: After the dish has cooled to room temperature, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven or microwave.
  • Freezing: If you’d like to make this dish in advance or store leftovers for later, you can freeze it. Assemble the stuffed shells in the baking dish but do not bake them. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and bake according to the instructions.
  • Reheating: To reheat, cover the stuffed shells with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, but the oven method will preserve the texture better.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, using pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken, is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken and add it to the filling mixture.
  2. Can I make these shells ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Assemble the shells, cover the baking dish with foil, and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. When ready to bake, let it sit for 15-20 minutes at room temperature and then bake as directed.
  3. Can I make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely! Just omit the chicken and increase the amount of broccoli or add other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach.
  4. Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce? Yes, homemade Alfredo sauce will give the dish a richer, creamier flavor. It’s an easy sauce to make with butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
  5. How can I make this dish spicier? To add some heat, include red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños in the filling or sprinkle some chili powder over the top before baking.

The Final Word

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a crowd-pleasing comfort food that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. It’s easy to prepare, adaptable to different tastes, and filled with rich, cheesy goodness that will leave everyone asking for seconds. The combination of creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and melted cheese creates a flavorful and satisfying meal. Whether you make it ahead of time or whip it up on a busy weeknight, Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a meal that everyone will love. Enjoy!

Sharing is caring!

Leave a Comment