Recipes

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Ingredients:

  • 24 jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 2 cups steamed broccoli florets
  • 15 oz jar Alfredo sauce
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the Pasta Shells:
    • Prepare the pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Filling:
    • In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, 1/2 cup Alfredo sauce, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined.
  4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
    • Spread 1/2 cup of Alfredo sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
  5. Stuff the Shells:
    • Fill each cooked shell with the chicken and broccoli mixture and arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
  6. Top the Shells:
    • Drizzle the remaining Alfredo sauce over the stuffed shells and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
  7. Bake:
    • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Garnish and Serve:
    • Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
Servings: 6

Achieving the Perfect Delightful Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells : 30 Secrets to Master the Recipe

Quality Pasta Shells: Use good quality jumbo pasta shells to avoid breakage during cooking.

    • Proper Chicken Preparation: Use freshly cooked, well-seasoned chicken for the filling. Rotisserie chicken works great.
    • Fresh Broccoli: Steam the broccoli just until tender to maintain a slight crunch.
    • Homemade Alfredo Sauce: For a richer taste, consider making homemade Alfredo sauce.
  2. Mixing Tips:
    • Cool Ingredients: Let the chicken and broccoli cool slightly before mixing with the cheeses and spices to avoid melting the cheese prematurely.
    • Even Distribution: Mix the filling ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
  3. Pasta Preparation:
    • Cook Shells Al Dente: Cook the pasta shells al dente according to package instructions to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
    • Drain and Cool: Drain the cooked shells and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process and make them easier to handle.
  4. Assembly and Baking:
    • Layering: Spread half a cup of Alfredo sauce at the bottom of the baking dish to prevent the shells from sticking.
    • Stuff Shells Generously: Fill each cooked shell with the chicken and broccoli mixture, ensuring they are generously stuffed.
    • Even Sauce Distribution: Drizzle the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
    • Cheese Topping: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top for a golden, bubbly crust.
  5. Flavor Enhancements:
    • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
    • Herb Addition: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be added to the filling for extra flavor.
    • Extra Veggies: Add diced bell peppers or spinach for more vegetables.
  6. Baking Tips:
    • Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
    • Uncover for Crispiness: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
  7. Cooling and Serving:
    • Rest Before Serving: Let the stuffed shells cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
    • Garnish: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
  8. Presentation:
    • Serve Hot: Serve the stuffed shells while they’re still warm for the best flavor and texture.
    • Accompaniments: Pair with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
  9. Storage and Reheating:
    • Store Properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
    • Reheat Correctly: Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave until thoroughly heated.
  10. Customizations:
    • Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or fontina for varied flavors.
    • Alternative Meats: Substitute chicken with turkey or ham if preferred.
    • Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add more veggies and beans for a vegetarian version.
  11. Dietary Adjustments:
    • Low-Fat Option: Use low-fat cheese and sauce to reduce calories.
    • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta shells if needed.
    • Dairy-Free: Substitute cheese and Alfredo sauce with dairy-free alternatives.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
Servings: 6

Top 20 Questions Related to Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells:

  1. Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce?
    • Yes, homemade Alfredo sauce can be used for a fresher taste.
  2. What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
    • Rotisserie chicken or any cooked, shredded chicken works well.
  3. Can I substitute the broccoli with another vegetable?
    • Yes, spinach or cauliflower are good substitutes.
  4. Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
    • Use gluten-free pasta shells and ensure the Alfredo sauce is gluten-free.
  5. How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
    • Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
  6. Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
    • Yes, assemble the dish and freeze before baking. Thaw before baking or add extra baking time if baking from frozen.
  7. What other cheese can I use instead of ricotta?
    • Cottage cheese or a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream can be used.
  8. How do I prevent the shells from sticking together?
    • Drizzle the cooked shells with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
  9. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
    • Yes, use 2-3 cloves of minced garlic.
  10. How do I store leftovers?
    • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  11. Can I reheat this dish?
    • Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual servings.
  12. What can I serve with this dish?
    • Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
  13. How can I make this dish spicier?
    • Add red pepper flakes to the filling or top with a spicy marinara sauce.
  14. Can I use a different type of pasta?
    • Manicotti or cannelloni can be used as an alternative to jumbo shells.
  15. How do I make the dish creamier?
    • Add extra Alfredo sauce or a bit of heavy cream to the filling.
  16. Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
    • Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and a dairy-free Alfredo sauce.
  17. Can I add other herbs to the filling?
    • Yes, fresh basil or oregano can add extra flavor.
  18. What’s the best way to chop the broccoli?
    • Steam the broccoli first and then chop into small, bite-sized pieces.
  19. Can I use a different meat?
    • Yes, cooked turkey or ham can be used instead of chicken.
  20. How do I ensure the pasta shells don’t tear?
    • Cook the shells al dente and handle them gently during filling.

By following these steps and tips, you’ll master the art of making Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells and delight everyone with this delicious and hearty dish!