A comforting and creamy twist on classic pasta, Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are packed with juicy chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and gooey cheese. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish brings hearty flavors and satisfying textures to the table.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread 1 cup of Alfredo sauce over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Stuff each cooked shell with the chicken mixture and arrange them in the baking dish.
6. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
7. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese over the top.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 420 per serving
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 750mg

Why Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Are a Family Favorite

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are beloved for their rich, creamy flavor and satisfying texture. The combination of tender chicken, creamy ricotta, savory Parmesan, and buttery Alfredo sauce creates a hearty and comforting meal perfect for all ages.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers

This recipe is excellent for meal prepping. You can easily assemble the shells ahead of time, refrigerate them, and then bake when ready. They also reheat wonderfully, making them ideal for leftovers throughout the week.

Customizing the Filling

While the traditional filling features chicken, ricotta, and mozzarella, you can customize it to suit your preferences. Add spinach, mushrooms, or even swap the chicken for turkey or ham for a unique twist on the classic.

Choosing the Best Pasta Shells

When making Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, selecting quality jumbo pasta shells is key. Look for shells that are sturdy and hold their shape well after boiling to ensure they are easy to stuff without tearing.

Homemade vs Store-Bought Alfredo Sauce

You can use either homemade or store-bought Alfredo sauce for this recipe. Homemade sauce offers a fresher flavor, while high-quality store-bought versions save time without sacrificing taste.

Best Cheeses for Ultimate Flavor

While mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional choices, experimenting with other cheeses like Asiago, Fontina, or Romano can add deeper, more complex flavors to the dish, enhancing its overall richness.

Adding Vegetables for Extra Nutrition

Incorporating vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or zucchini into the filling is a great way to boost the nutritional value of the meal without compromising its creamy, indulgent texture.

Making It Ahead for Special Occasions

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells can be prepared a day or two in advance, making them a stress-free option for holiday dinners, birthdays, or potluck gatherings. Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate until you are ready to bake.

Freezing Instructions for Long-Term Storage

To freeze, assemble the shells in a freezer-safe dish without baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Tips for Preventing Dry Shells

To ensure the stuffed shells stay moist during baking, cover the dish with foil for most of the baking time. Removing the foil for the last few minutes allows the cheese to brown beautifully without drying out the pasta.

Serving Suggestions

Pair Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that balances richness with fresh, light flavors.

Perfect for Picky Eaters

Because of the familiar flavors of chicken, cheese, and creamy sauce, Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a hit with even the pickiest eaters, making it a dependable choice for family dinners.

Using Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience

Rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut when preparing this recipe. It saves time and adds a seasoned, tender quality to the filling that elevates the dish effortlessly.

Portion Control Tips

If you are serving a crowd or trying to manage portions, consider baking the shells in individual ramekins or muffin tins. This allows for perfect, mess-free serving sizes every time.

Making It Lighter

For a lighter version, you can substitute low-fat ricotta, reduced-fat mozzarella, and use a lighter Alfredo sauce made with milk instead of heavy cream. These small swaps can cut calories and fat without sacrificing flavor.

Elevating the Flavor with Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme sprinkled over the finished dish add a burst of freshness and color, enhancing both the presentation and flavor profile of the stuffed shells.

How to Reheat for Best Results

To reheat, cover the shells with foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can cause the pasta to dry out or become rubbery.

Pairing with Wine

For an adult dinner party, Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells pair beautifully with a light white wine such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, balancing the creamy richness with crisp, refreshing notes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcooking the pasta shells, making them too soft and hard to stuff. Aim to cook the shells al dente, so they are firm enough to hold the filling without tearing apart.

Making It Gluten-Free

For those with dietary restrictions, this dish can easily be adapted to be gluten-free. Simply substitute the jumbo pasta shells with gluten-free pasta shells and ensure that your Alfredo sauce is gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors of Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells without worrying about gluten.

Serving as a One-Pot Meal

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells can also be turned into a one-pot meal by baking the shells in a deep dish with a little extra Alfredo sauce and some broth to create a creamy, casserole-like consistency. This method allows the sauce to soak into the shells, making them even more flavorful and ensuring every bite is coated in creamy goodness.

Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that brings creamy, cheesy comfort to the dinner table. Whether you customize the filling, make them ahead, or serve them for a special gathering, this recipe guarantees a warm, satisfying meal that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow techniques, it’s a go-to dish you’ll turn to again and again.