Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells No One Can Resist!

Introduction

There’s something irresistible about Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells—a perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness packed inside tender pasta shells. This dish brings together the comforting flavors of homemade Alfredo sauce, juicy chicken, and a rich cheese filling, making it a must-try for pasta lovers.

If you love classic chicken Alfredo but want a fun twist, this recipe is the answer. The jumbo shells hold a creamy, flavorful mixture of chicken, ricotta (or cream cheese), and mozzarella, all topped with a luscious garlic-Parmesan Alfredo sauce. Baked until bubbly and golden, this dish is pure comfort food.

Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner, a special family meal, or prepping for a potluck gathering, these stuffed shells will be a hit. The best part? You can customize the recipe with different cheeses, seasonings, or even a touch of spice for a Cajun Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells variation.

Let’s dive into this easy, delicious, and restaurant-quality meal that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Key Benefits

1. Ultimate Comfort Food
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells combine the rich, creamy flavors of Alfredo sauce with the heartiness of stuffed pasta shells. Every bite is packed with juicy chicken, melted cheese, and a velvety sauce, making it the perfect meal when you’re craving something warm and satisfying.

2. Easy to Make
Despite its restaurant-quality taste, this recipe is surprisingly simple. You can use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken to cut down on prep time. Plus, if you’re short on time, a high-quality jar of Alfredo sauce works just as well as homemade.

3. Customizable to Your Taste
This recipe is highly adaptable—swap ricotta for cream cheese, add broccoli for extra nutrition, or spice it up for a Cajun Chicken Alfredo twist. Whether you prefer a mild, cheesy filling or a bold, garlicky kick, you can adjust the flavors to suit your preferences.

4. Great for Meal Prep & Leftovers
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells store well in the fridge and freezer, making them a great make-ahead meal. You can prepare the dish in advance, refrigerate it overnight, and bake when ready. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making for an easy, delicious lunch or dinner.

5. Crowd-Pleasing Dish
Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or potlucks, this dish is a guaranteed hit. The combination of cheesy stuffed shells and creamy Alfredo sauce is something everyone—from kids to adults—will love. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad, and you’ve got a complete meal.

Ingredients

To make these Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Below is a breakdown of what you’ll need for the stuffed shells, Alfredo sauce, and toppings.

For the Stuffed Shells:

• Jumbo pasta shells – 20-25 shells, cooked al dente
• Cooked chicken breast – 2 cups, shredded or finely chopped (rotisserie chicken works great)
• Ricotta cheese – 1 cup (or substitute with cream cheese for a creamier texture)
• Mozzarella cheese – 1 ½ cups, shredded
• Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, freshly grated
• Egg – 1 large, to help bind the filling
• Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon, for extra flavor
• Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon, for a classic Italian touch
• Salt and black pepper – to taste

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• Butter – 4 tablespoons, unsalted
• Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
• Heavy cream – 1 ½ cups (or substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version)
• Parmesan cheese – 1 cup, freshly grated
• Salt and black pepper – to taste
• Nutmeg – ¼ teaspoon, optional, adds depth of flavor

For Topping & Garnish:

• Mozzarella cheese – ½ cup, shredded (for a golden, cheesy crust)
• Parsley – Freshly chopped, for garnish
• Crushed red pepper flakes – Optional, for a spicy kick

Optional Additions & Substitutions:

• Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells with Broccoli: Add 1 cup of finely chopped steamed broccoli to the filling.
• Cajun Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells: Add 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning to the filling and a pinch to the Alfredo sauce.
• Using Jar Sauce: If short on time, substitute homemade Alfredo with 2 cups of a high-quality jarred Alfredo sauce.

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for assembling and baking these delicious Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells with a creamy, cheesy filling and a rich Alfredo sauce.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions (they should be al dente to hold their shape).
3. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
   • Shredded cooked chicken
   • Ricotta cheese (or cream cheese)
   • Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese
   • Egg (helps bind the mixture)
   • Garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
2. Mix everything until well combined. The filling should be creamy but firm enough to hold its shape inside the shells.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously. Bring to a light simmer.
4. Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (optional). Remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Shells

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread ½ cup of Alfredo sauce on the bottom.
3. Fill each cooked pasta shell with the prepared chicken mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
4. Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish in a single layer.
5. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the shells.
6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top for a melty, golden finish.

Step 5: Bake the Stuffed Shells

1. Cover the baking dish loosely with foil (to prevent drying out).
2. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
3. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

1. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes for a little heat.
2. Serve hot with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Now that your Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are perfectly baked, let’s explore some pro tips and variations to customize this dish even further!

Pro Tips and Variations

Take your Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells to the next level with these expert tips and delicious variations.

Pro Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells

Cook Shells Al Dente – Slightly undercooking the pasta prevents them from becoming too soft or breaking apart while baking.

Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience – Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, which is flavorful and shreds easily.

Mix Ricotta with Cream Cheese for Extra Creaminess – If you prefer a richer filling, use a 50/50 mix of ricotta and cream cheese.

Freshly Grate Parmesan for Best Flavor – Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly. Always use freshly grated Parmesan for a silky Alfredo sauce.

Cover While Baking – Baking with foil for the first 20 minutes ensures the shells don’t dry out. Removing the foil for the last 10 minutes allows the cheese to turn golden brown.

Let the Dish Rest Before Serving – Giving the shells 5 minutes to cool after baking helps the flavors meld together and prevents a runny sauce.

Tasty Variations to Try

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells with Broccoli – Add 1 cup of finely chopped steamed broccoli to the chicken mixture for extra nutrients and texture.

Cajun Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells – Mix 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning into both the filling and sauce for a spicy, bold flavor.

Extra Cheesy Version – Swap out ricotta for cream cheese and add an extra ½ cup of mozzarella for the ultimate cheesy experience.

Veggie-Packed Alfredo Shells – Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a flavorful, veggie-packed twist.

Garlic Parmesan Alfredo – Double the garlic in the sauce for an intense garlic-Parmesan flavor.

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells with Marinara – Layer half Alfredo and half marinara sauce for a creamy, tangy fusion.

Make It a One-Pan Meal – Arrange the stuffed shells on top of a bed of sautéed spinach or roasted tomatoes before baking. The vegetables will soak up the flavors as they cook!

Now that you know how to personalize this dish, let’s talk about the best ways to serve these Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells for a complete and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells with the right sides and accompaniments can turn this dish into a restaurant-quality meal. Here are some of the best ways to serve this creamy, cheesy pasta dish.

Best Side Dishes

Garlic Bread or Breadsticks – A crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect side to soak up the extra Alfredo sauce. Try homemade cheesy breadsticks for even more indulgence.

Fresh Garden Salad – Balance out the richness of the dish with a light, crisp salad. A simple Caesar salad, Italian salad, or mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette pairs beautifully.

Roasted or Steamed Vegetables – Serve with roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or steamed broccoli to add a nutritious touch. The garlic-Parmesan Alfredo sauce complements greens perfectly.

Bruschetta or Caprese Salad – A fresh tomato-based appetizer like bruschetta or a Caprese salad (mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze) adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.

Sautéed Mushrooms or Zucchini – Garlic butter mushrooms or zucchini slices sautéed in olive oil are light yet flavorful and pair well with Alfredo flavors.

Wine & Drink Pairings

White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Grigio complements the richness of the Alfredo sauce.

Mocktails & Refreshing Drinks: A lemon basil spritzer, sparkling lemonade, or iced tea keeps the meal light and refreshing.

Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells bring together the best of two Italian-American favorites—tender pasta shells, creamy Alfredo sauce, and a cheesy, flavorful chicken filling. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner, meal prepping, or even impressing guests with minimal effort.

With its rich, creamy texture and customizable variations, this recipe is adaptable to different tastes. Whether you prefer a classic version with ricotta, a Cajun twist with spice, or a veggie-packed option with broccoli, there’s a way to make it your own.

Plus, it pairs beautifully with garlic bread, fresh salads, and roasted vegetables, creating a balanced, satisfying meal. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, covering everything from side dishes to storage tips.

What to serve with chicken Alfredo stuffed shells?

This dish pairs well with garlic bread, a fresh Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. For a heartier meal, try serving it with a light tomato bruschetta or sautéed mushrooms.

What makes chicken Alfredo taste better?

The key to a rich, flavorful Alfredo sauce is using fresh garlic, high-quality Parmesan, and a touch of nutmeg. Letting the sauce simmer allows the flavors to meld. Adding a pinch of Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, or extra garlic can also enhance the taste.

What’s the difference between chicken Alfredo and carbonara?

While both are creamy pasta dishes, Alfredo is made with butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan, whereas carbonara uses egg yolks, Parmesan, pancetta, and black pepper. Alfredo has a silky, buttery texture, while carbonara has a richer, egg-based sauce.

What ingredients do you need for chicken Alfredo?

The classic Chicken Alfredo recipe includes butter, garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and chicken. Some variations add cream cheese or milk for extra creaminess. If making stuffed shells, you’ll also need pasta shells and a cheese mixture for the filling.

What goes good with stuffed shells?

Besides garlic bread and salad, other great sides include roasted Brussels sprouts, sautéed spinach, or cheesy breadsticks. If you want a contrasting sauce, serve with a side of marinara or pesto for dipping.

Is chicken Alfredo good as leftovers?

Yes! Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells reheat well. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce.

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe Recap

Short Description

Indulge in these creamy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, filled with a rich blend of shredded chicken, ricotta, and mozzarella, then baked in a velvety Alfredo sauce for the ultimate comfort meal.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~580 per serving

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 580
• Total Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Cholesterol: 125mg
• Sodium: 820mg
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Protein: 36g

Recipe Category & Tags

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Diet: High-Protein
Method: Baked
Keyword: Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, cheesy stuffed shells, chicken pasta bake
Skill Level: Easy to Intermediate

This Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells recipe is easy to customize and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Let me know if you’d like any changes!

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells No One Can Resist!

Recipe by meatworksrecipesCourse: Chicken

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

580

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Stuffed Shells

• 20 jumbo pasta shells (cooked al dente)

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

• 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese as an alternative)

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• 1 large egg (for binding the filling)

• 2 teaspoons garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• For the Alfredo Sauce

• 2 cups heavy cream

• ½ cup butter (1 stick)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1½ cups Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra depth)

• For Topping & Garnish

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (for baking)

• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

• Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain, rinse with cold water to prevent sticking, and set aside.
• Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling
• In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
• Mix well until the filling is evenly combined.
• Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
• In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
• Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly.
• Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce thickens.
• Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Remove from heat.
• Step 4: Assemble the Dish
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken mixture and arrange them in the baking dish.
• Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the shells.
• Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
• Step 5: Bake to Perfection
• Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
• Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
• Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

• Pasta Tip: Cook shells al dente to prevent them from breaking when stuffing.
  Chicken Options: Use rotisserie chicken, grilled, or leftover shredded chicken.
  Cheese Variations: Swap ricotta with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a different texture.
  Sauce Shortcut: Store-bought Alfredo works if you’re short on time.
  Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
  Freezing Instructions: Freeze unbaked shells for up to 3 months; bake from frozen at 375°F for 45 minutes.
  Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F or microwave in short bursts for best results.