Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe

Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a comforting and delicious dish that combines creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli, all stuffed inside large, jumbo pasta shells. This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with something flavorful and satisfying.

The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese creates a creamy, cheesy filling that is perfectly complemented by the shredded chicken and broccoli. With the rich Alfredo sauce, this dish offers the ideal balance of flavors. Whether you’re looking for a filling dinner or a comforting casserole-style dish, these stuffed shells hit the spot.

These stuffed shells are not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients, making them a great choice for both kids and adults alike. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a meal everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells bring all your favorite comfort food flavors into one dish. The combination of juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and creamy cheese filling inside large pasta shells is simply irresistible. Each bite is creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, making it the perfect dinner for any night of the week.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can make it ahead of time and bake it later, or even freeze it for a future meal. The addition of broccoli not only adds a pop of color but also a healthy vegetable to balance out the richness of the Alfredo sauce and cheese. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a special occasion, these stuffed shells are sure to please everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

For the Stuffed Shells:

• Jumbo pasta shells
• Cooked shredded chicken
• Fresh broccoli (chopped)
• Ricotta cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Egg
• Alfredo sauce
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Variations

While this Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells recipe is delicious as written, there are several ways you can customize it to fit your tastes:

• Swap the Chicken for Turkey: Ground turkey or turkey breast can be used instead of chicken for a lighter option.
• Add More Vegetables: Add other veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients.
• Spicy Option: For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free jumbo shells and gluten-free Alfredo sauce to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Jumbo Shells

Start by boiling the jumbo pasta shells in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions. Once cooked al dente, drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli

In a medium-sized pan, lightly steam or sauté the chopped broccoli until it’s tender but still bright green. You can either steam it on the stovetop or microwave it for a couple of minutes. Set it aside to cool.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, ½ cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the mixture is well combined. Then, add the shredded chicken and chopped broccoli, mixing until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a small amount of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken and broccoli mixture, making sure to pack the filling tightly. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in the baking dish.

Step 5: Bake the Dish

Once all the shells are stuffed and arranged in the baking dish, pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the top. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the shells are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown slightly. Once baked, garnish with fresh parsley (if desired) and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t overcook the shells: Cook the pasta shells until they are al dente so they hold their shape when stuffed. Overcooking can make them too soft to stuff properly.
• Cool the filling slightly: Let the chicken and broccoli filling cool slightly before stuffing it into the shells to avoid melting the cheese too quickly.
• Use homemade Alfredo sauce: While store-bought Alfredo sauce is convenient, homemade sauce can elevate the flavor of this dish. If you have the time, try making a simple homemade Alfredo sauce.
• Bake covered first: Covering the dish with foil while baking helps trap moisture and ensures that the stuffed shells stay moist. Uncover towards the end to allow the cheese to brown.

How to Serve

These Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells are rich and hearty, making them the perfect main dish. Serve them with:

• A side salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the creamy richness of the stuffed shells.
• Garlic bread: A slice of garlic bread pairs perfectly with the creamy Alfredo sauce and adds a crispy element to the meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Serve alongside some roasted carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through.

Freezing

These stuffed shells freeze well, making them a great option for meal prep. To freeze, assemble the dish up until the baking step. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To bake, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. If baking from frozen, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To reheat, place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes, you can use different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or Gouda to add more flavor or richness to the filling.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the filling to avoid excess moisture.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

4. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken will save you time and still provide great flavor.

5. Can I bake the shells without covering them with foil?

While you can bake the shells uncovered, covering them with foil helps them retain moisture, preventing the shells from drying out during baking.

6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells and gluten-free Alfredo sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.

7. How can I make this recipe spicier?

For a spicier twist, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the filling or Alfredo sauce, or use a spicy Alfredo sauce.

8. Can I freeze this dish after baking?

Yes, you can freeze the fully baked Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container.

9. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

10. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the chicken and substitute it with more vegetables or a plant-based protein like tofu to make the dish vegetarian.

Conclusion

Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a rich and comforting meal that combines all the flavors you love—cheesy, creamy, and savory. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a hearty meal with your family. With tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a creamy cheese filling all wrapped in pasta shells, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether served fresh out of the oven or made ahead of time, these stuffed shells are a satisfying and delicious dinner option.

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