👉 Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Description:
These Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a comforting and delicious dish that combines creamy Alfredo sauce, tender shredded chicken, and vibrant broccoli all stuffed into large pasta shells. Baked until golden and bubbly, each bite is a delightful mix of cheesy, creamy goodness with a satisfying bite from the broccoli and chicken. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, these stuffed shells are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a hearty and flavorful meal that everyone will love!

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Storage: Store any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual shells in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Add a splash of milk or extra Alfredo sauce if needed to keep the dish creamy.

Ingredients:

1 lb jumbo pasta shells
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2 cups steamed broccoli, chopped
2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta shells: Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Stuff the shells: Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken and broccoli mixture, ensuring they are packed well. Arrange the stuffed shells in a lightly greased baking dish.
Top with sauce and cheese: Pour any remaining Alfredo sauce over the shells and sprinkle with extra mozzarella cheese.
Bake the shells: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Serve: Let the shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

20 FAQs About Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells:

Can I use any type of pasta shells?
Jumbo pasta shells are ideal for stuffing, but you can use other large pasta varieties like manicotti if you prefer.
Can I make the Alfredo sauce from scratch?
Yes, you can make homemade Alfredo sauce with butter, heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe and saves time.
How can I make the dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of hot sauce to the filling or sauce.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells and freeze them before baking. Wrap the dish tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat frozen stuffed shells?
To reheat frozen stuffed shells, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-50 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I substitute the broccoli?
Yes, spinach, kale, or peas could be used instead of broccoli for a different flavor.
Can I use a different cheese?
You can use other cheeses like provolone, gouda, or fontina for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this dish without meat?
Yes, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for a vegetarian option.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, you can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions to the filling for more flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have mozzarella?
You can substitute with any melty cheese like Monterey Jack or even cheddar.
How do I prevent the shells from breaking?
Be gentle when handling the cooked pasta shells, and allow them to cool slightly before stuffing them to avoid breaking.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used—just be sure to steam and drain it well before using.
Can I add garlic to the filling?
Yes, adding minced garlic to the chicken and broccoli mixture will enhance the flavor.
Can I make the shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can stuff the shells a day in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to bake.
Can I use a different type of sauce?
If you prefer, you can use a white sauce or even a marinara sauce for a different twist on the classic recipe.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a bit of cream cheese or a flour roux to the Alfredo sauce.
Can I serve this dish with a side?
A side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables would pair perfectly with these stuffed shells.
How many stuffed shells should I serve per person?
Depending on the size of the shells, 3-4 stuffed shells per person is usually a good serving size.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta shells and ensure your Alfredo sauce is gluten-free to make this dish gluten-free.

20 Best Tips for Making Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells:

Cook the pasta shells al dente to avoid them becoming too soft when baked.
Use fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture in the filling.
Ensure the broccoli is well-drained to prevent excess moisture from making the filling too watery.
Add garlic to the Alfredo sauce for extra flavor.
Mix the cheeses well in the filling to ensure a smooth, cheesy texture.
Don’t overstuff the shells—fill them generously, but don’t force too much filling inside.
Use a shallow baking dish so that the sauce and cheese cover the shells evenly as they bake.
Top the shells with extra cheese before baking for a bubbly, golden finish.
Cover the dish with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking to keep the stuffed shells moist.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to settle before serving.
Use homemade Alfredo sauce for a richer, more personalized flavor.
Grate your own Parmesan cheese for better texture and flavor in the sauce and filling.
Season the filling well with salt and pepper, and consider adding Italian seasoning or fresh herbs.
Make sure the filling is cool enough before stuffing the shells to prevent them from becoming too soft.
Toast the cheese on top by removing the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
Make sure the shells are arranged neatly in the baking dish to ensure even cooking.
Add some fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top before serving for extra flavor and color.
Use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for a perfect blend of creamy and savory flavors.
Make it a one-pan meal by adding more veggies like mushrooms or spinach to the filling.
For extra richness, add a dollop of cream cheese to the Alfredo sauce for a creamy texture.