Irresistible Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of chicken alfredo stuffed shells that are simply unforgettable. Picture this: large pasta shells generously filled with a luscious blend of tender chicken, rich alfredo sauce, and a sprinkle of cheese that melts like a dream. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table in eager anticipation.

I remember the first time I made these delightful stuffed shells for a family gathering. As soon as they hit the table, my cousin declared them “life-changing,” and let me tell you, he’s not one to hand out compliments lightly! Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, chicken alfredo stuffed shells are nothing short of magical.

Sharing that moment still brings a smile to my face as I think about how much joy those stuffed shells brought everyone around the table.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Large Pasta Shells: Look for sturdy shells that can hold all that creamy goodness without breaking apart.

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work perfectly; feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.

• Alfredo Sauce: Use store-bought for convenience or homemade for an extra touch of love.

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Always choose fresh mozzarella; it melts beautifully and adds that gooey stretch we all adore.

• Parmesan Cheese: A hint of freshly grated parmesan elevates the flavor and gives a gourmet twist.

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds freshness and color right before serving.

• Garlic Powder: This little gem boosts flavor without overwhelming the dish; it’s an absolute must-have!

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the alfredo sauce to perfection.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta Shells: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt generously before tossing in those large pasta shells. Cook until al dente according to package instructions—about 8-10 minutes should do it.

Prepare the Chicken: While pasta cooks, season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Sear each breast for 5-7 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

Create the Filling: Once cooked, let your chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding it into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with half of your alfredo sauce and half of the mozzarella cheese. This mixture should feel rich and creamy—trust me!

Stuff Those Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab those drained pasta shells and start stuffing them generously with your delightful chicken mixture using a spoon or piping bag if you’re feeling fancy.

Add Sauce & Cheese: Spread some remaining alfredo sauce on the bottom of a baking dish before placing stuffed shells on top. Drizzle more sauce over them and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese—let’s get cheesy!

Bake to Perfection: Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 20 minutes until everything is heated through. Remove foil for the last 10 minutes so that cheese gets bubbly and golden brown.

Enjoy every bite while savoring memories made around this delightful meal!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta shells until al dente, then prepare your chicken and sauce simultaneously for maximum efficiency. This ensures everything is hot and ready at the same time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian version. Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Creating Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells reminds me of my first dinner party where friends marveled at my culinary skills, which were mostly due to this dish!

FAQ

Can I use store-bought alfredo sauce?

Yes, store-bought alfredo sauce saves time and still tastes delicious.

What can I serve with stuffed shells?

Garlic bread and a fresh salad make excellent side dishes for stuffed shells.

Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells?

Absolutely! Freeze them before baking for up to three months, then bake directly from frozen.