Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells

This comforting and creamy dish combines the best of Italian flavors with a hearty, filling twist. Jumbo pasta shells are stuffed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich Alfredo sauce, making it a perfect dinner for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it to family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy: The Alfredo sauce adds a luscious, indulgent texture to the dish.
• Hearty and filling: Packed with chicken, broccoli, and cheese, these stuffed shells make a satisfying meal.
• Kid-friendly: A hit with the whole family, including picky eaters.
• Make-ahead friendly: Assemble the dish ahead of time for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Easy to customize with different proteins, vegetables, or cheeses.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Jumbo pasta shells
• Cooked, shredded chicken
• Fresh broccoli, chopped
• Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Ricotta cheese
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the pasta shells: Boil the jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper). Stir until well combined.
3. Stuff the shells: Fill each cooked pasta shell with the prepared chicken and broccoli mixture.
4. Assemble the dish: Spread a layer of Alfredo sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, open side up.
5. Top with sauce and cheese: Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the shells, ensuring they are evenly coated. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Protein options: Swap the chicken for cooked ground beef, turkey, or shrimp.
• Vegetable swaps: Substitute broccoli with spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Sauce options: Use marinara sauce or a pesto Alfredo blend for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese varieties: Try adding gouda, cheddar, or provolone for extra richness.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the fully assembled dish (before baking) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the filling.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the stuffed shells and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. What type of Alfredo sauce is best?

You can use store-bought Alfredo sauce or make a homemade version using butter, cream, garlic, and Parmesan.

4. Can I use gluten-free pasta shells?

Yes, gluten-free jumbo shells are a great alternative for this recipe.

5. How do I prevent the shells from sticking together?

Add a bit of olive oil to the pasta water and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option for this dish.

7. What can I serve with this dish?

Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

8. Can I add mushrooms to the filling?

Certainly! Sautéed mushrooms make an excellent addition to the filling.

9. How can I make it lighter?

Use low-fat cheeses and a lighter Alfredo sauce to reduce the calorie content.

10. Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the filling for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a delightful and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. With a creamy, cheesy filling and a versatile recipe that’s easy to customize, it’s a dish your family will request again and again. Prepare it ahead of time or enjoy the process of assembling it fresh—either way, it’s guaranteed to please!

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