If you’re craving a rich, satisfying meal that wraps creamy, cheesy goodness inside tender pasta shells, then you’ve hit culinary gold with the Baked Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells: The Cheesy, Comforting Dinner Everyone Craves Recipe. This dish is the ultimate cozy dinner that combines the smooth decadence of Alfredo sauce, the hearty flavor of shredded chicken, and a blend of cheeses baked to bubbling perfection. Whether you’re feeding a family or impressing guests, it brings that perfect blend of comfort and elegance to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but bring incredible layers of flavor, texture, and a touch of classic Italian flair to your baked masterpiece. Each component plays an essential role, balancing creaminess, seasoning, and a luscious cheese pull that makes every bite unforgettable.
- 20 jumbo pasta shells: Perfect for stuffing, these hold all the delicious filling without falling apart.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Adds hearty protein and a mild flavor that lets the cheeses shine.
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese: Brings a creamy, slightly tangy texture that blends beautifully with the chicken.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella: Adds gooey, stretchy cheese inside the filling for extra indulgence.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan: Offers a sharp, nutty flavor to elevate the cheesy mix.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a savory warmth that’s essential in Alfredo dishes.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Deepens the flavor base subtly without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A classic herb blend that transports you straight to the Mediterranean.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the overall dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just enough heat and peppery bite.
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce: The silky coating that ties everything together with creamy richness.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley: Adds a fresh burst of color and a hint of brightness as a finishing touch.
- 1 cup mozzarella for topping: Melts over the shells, creating a golden, bubbly crust.
How to Make Baked Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells: The Cheesy, Comforting Dinner Everyone Craves Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F for that perfect baking temperature. Boil the jumbo pasta shells until they’re al dente—still firm to the bite but tender enough to stuff without breaking apart. Drain and set them aside to cool slightly; this step ensures they hold their shape while filled.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesy Chicken Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly so the cheeses and spices evenly coat the chicken. This mixture becomes the luscious heart of your shells packed with flavor and texture.
Step 3: Layer the Alfredo Sauce
Spread 1 cup of Alfredo sauce evenly over the bottom of a baking dish. This creamy base keeps the stuffed shells moist during baking and infuses them with that signature Alfredo richness.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells
Carefully spoon the chicken and cheese filling into each jumbo shell, filling it generously but not overstuffing. Place the filled shells neatly in a single layer atop the Alfredo sauce in the baking dish, making sure they’re snug but not crowded.
Step 5: Top with More Sauce and Cheese
Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the arranged stuffed shells, coating them completely. Then sprinkle the 1 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly on top to create a golden, bubbly cheese crust that everyone adores.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. This initial baking warms the filling through and allows the flavors to meld. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes so the mozzarella topping can brown beautifully and develop that irresistible stretchiness.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish by sprinkling the chopped parsley over the hot dish to add a pop of fresh green color and subtle herbal brightness. Serve the Baked Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells: The Cheesy, Comforting Dinner Everyone Craves Recipe warm and watch everyone dive in with delight.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells: The Cheesy, Comforting Dinner Everyone Craves Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic, but you can also add a grating of extra Parmesan or a few crackles of red pepper flakes for heat. For a fresh contrast, a wedge of lemon on the side brightens the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with crisp green salads dressed in vinaigrettes or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, which add texture and lighten the meal. Garlic bread or warm focaccia are perfect for sopping up any extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, plate individual servings in shallow soup bowls to catch every cheesy bite of sauce. Alternatively, spoon some Alfredo sauce on the plate first, then arrange the shells artistically on top for that professional touch that impresses without stress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the stuffed shells tightly with foil or transfer them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, so leftovers are often even better.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled but unbaked dish. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and foil or place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen with an extra 15-20 minutes, covered initially to thaw and heat through.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers in the oven at 350°F covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until heated through. For quicker meals, microwave individual portions covered for 2 to 3 minutes but expect less of that fresh-baked texture.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds great flavor to the filling. Just shred it well before mixing with the cheese and seasonings.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes, you can swap out the chicken for sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even roasted butternut squash to keep it hearty and delicious while catering to vegetarians.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells and ensure your Alfredo sauce doesn’t contain gluten. Most shredded cheeses are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check to be safe.
How do I prevent the stuffed shells from drying out?
Be generous with the Alfredo sauce both beneath and on top of the shells, and covering the dish during most of the baking keeps the moisture locked in perfectly.
Can I prepare the shells the day before baking?
Yes! You can assemble the stuffed shells, cover them, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, just proceed with baking as directed—adding a few extra minutes since the dish will be chilled.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells: The Cheesy, Comforting Dinner Everyone Craves Recipe truly takes comfort food to the next level with every creamy, cheesy bite. It’s so rewarding to prepare something that feels indulgent but is straightforward enough to make any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it, share it, and enjoy the smiles around your dinner table!
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Baked Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells: The Cheesy, Comforting Dinner Everyone Craves Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Delicious baked chicken Alfredo stuffed shells combine tender jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a creamy mixture of shredded chicken, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasonings, baked in a rich Alfredo sauce and topped with melted mozzarella for a comforting and cheesy dinner everyone will love.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
Filling
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce & Topping
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Shells: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, cook the jumbo pasta shells in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain carefully and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Assemble the Base: Spread 1 cup of Alfredo sauce evenly in the bottom of a large baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Stuff the Shells: Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the chicken and cheese mixture, using a spoon. Place the stuffed shells evenly arranged in the baking dish over the Alfredo sauce layer.
- Add Sauce on Top: Pour the remaining 1 cup of Alfredo sauce generously over the stuffed shells, ensuring each shell is covered.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauced shells to create a bubbly, cheesy crust.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish. Serve the stuffed shells warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Be sure not to overcook the pasta shells initially, as they will continue to cook during baking.
- You can use store-bought Alfredo sauce or make your own for an extra personal touch.
- If preferred, substitute shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add spinach or mushrooms to the cheese mixture.
