If you’re looking for a comforting, indulgent dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are exactly what you need. This dish combines tender jumbo pasta shells filled with a luscious mixture of shredded chicken, ricotta, and mozzarella cheeses, all smothered in a rich Alfredo sauce. It’s a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors that come together to create a meal that’s both elegant and approachable. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just craving some cozy Italian-inspired comfort food, these stuffed shells deliver every time.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

There’s a reason Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a hit everywhere – they blend familiar flavors with a little bit of wow factor. The jumbo pasta shells make for a fun and visually appealing presentation, while the creamy filling is delightfully satisfying. Plus, this dish is incredibly versatile; it can be made ahead of time, baked to golden perfection, and garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. The combination of tender chicken and three kinds of cheese in a garlicky Alfredo sauce is a surefire way to win hearts at your dinner table.

Ingredient Checklist

12 large jumbo pasta shells
1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
2 cups Alfredo sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Tools & Equipment Needed

Large pot – to boil the jumbo shells
Colander – for draining pasta
Mixing bowl – to combine the filling ingredients
Baking dish (9×13 inch works well) – for baking the stuffed shells
Aluminum foil – to cover the dish while baking
Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts
Spoon or spatula – for mixing and filling the shells

Build Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Step by Step

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente, about 12 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as the shells will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken breast, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, half of the grated parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked shell with a generous amount of the chicken and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells seam side up in a greased baking dish.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring each shell is covered with sauce. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown slightly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, let the dish cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Swap Guide

Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken if you want to save time.
Cheeses: Substitute part of the mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different cheesy flavor.
Alfredo Sauce: Use a store-bought Alfredo sauce for convenience or make your own for a richer taste.
Pasta Shells: If jumbo shells are unavailable, large manicotti tubes can be a great alternative (try this recipe for Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Manicotti).
Herbs: Swap parsley for fresh basil or oregano to add a different herbal note.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

Overcooking the pasta shells: They should be al dente as they will cook further in the oven.
Not seasoning the filling enough: The chicken and cheese mixture needs proper seasoning with salt, pepper, and spices to avoid blandness.
Skipping the cover during baking: Covering the dish traps moisture and prevents the shells from drying out.
Using cold Alfredo sauce straight from the fridge: Warm the sauce slightly before pouring it over the shells to ensure even baking.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells make excellent leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual servings. This dish also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For meal prep, you can assemble the stuffed shells a day ahead, cover with sauce, and refrigerate. Bake fresh when ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.

Common Questions

Can I use fresh pasta shells for this recipe?

Fresh pasta shells can be used, but they cook much faster than dried pasta. You’ll only need to boil them for a minute or two before stuffing. Be gentle during handling to avoid tearing.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses with dairy-free alternatives, and use a dairy-free Alfredo sauce. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will be different but still delicious.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely. Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers work wonderfully mixed into the chicken and cheese filling. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture from vegetables to avoid a watery filling.

What’s the best way to shred cooked chicken breast?

The easiest way is to use two forks to pull the chicken apart into thin strands. Alternatively, pulse cooked chicken in a food processor briefly for a quick shred.

Cook This Next

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Supreme – a luscious pasta dish with creamy Alfredo and tender chicken.
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Manicotti – a similar recipe with manicotti tubes for a different twist.
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Alfredo Bake – adds earthy mushrooms to the classic chicken Alfredo bake.

Time to Try It

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells fresh from the oven. The creamy, cheesy filling paired with tender chicken and rich Alfredo sauce creates a meal that satisfies both the eyes and the palate. Whether for a casual weeknight supper or a special gathering, this recipe brings a touch of Italian-inspired elegance without any fuss. So gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as delicious as it is heartwarming. Your dinner table will thank you!

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