Description: Bring comfort to your table with rich Alfredo Stuffed Shells filled with tender chicken and creamy sauce. Inspired by classic Chicken Alfredo Recipes and perfect for weeknights or gatherings, this Stuffed Shells Recipe delivers flavor and ease—no ricotta needed. Discover the details.
Comfort on a Plate: The Story Behind Creamy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
From Family Favorite to Cozy Dinner Tradition
There’s something about creamy, garlicky pasta bubbling away in the oven that instantly feels like home. I first stumbled on the idea of Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells during a busy weeknight when I wanted something comforting yet simple to prepare. The kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of buttery garlic and Parmesan as the sauce simmered gently on the stove. The first bite—soft pasta shells stuffed with tender chicken and smothered in rich Alfredo sauce—was pure nostalgia and joy in one dish.
It didn’t take long for this Stuffed Shells Recipe to become a family favorite, the kind of meal everyone asks for seconds of. Whether shared on a crisp fall evening or served at a weekend gathering, Alfredo Stuffed Shells bring warmth and connection to the table. It’s a delicious twist on classic Chicken Alfredo Recipes, merging creamy comfort with the fun of baked pasta shells. There’s no complicated layering or fancy ingredients—just hearty flavors that check every box for satisfaction. Simple, filling, and totally cozy, this recipe has anchored many happy dinners in my kitchen.
What I love most about these Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells is how approachable they are. Forget about ricotta or complicated sauces—this version keeps things creamy, delicious, and fuss-free. The Alfredo sauce plays the starring role, wrapping every shell in velvety smoothness while the chicken adds satisfying texture and heartiness. A sprinkle of herbs brings brightness to balance the richness, making every bite perfectly seasoned.
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Creamy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This baked pasta dish features jumbo shells filled with shredded chicken and a rich, homemade Alfredo sauce, topped with mozzarella and Parmesan. It’s a cozy, family-friendly meal ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Boil jumbo pasta shells in salted water until just al dente, drain, drizzle with olive oil, and let cool.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer, then whisk in Parmesan until smooth. Season with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss shredded chicken with 1 cup of the Alfredo sauce and half the mozzarella until well coated.
6. Fill each cooled shell with the chicken mixture and place open side up in the baking dish.
7. Spread remaining Alfredo sauce over shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and extra Parmesan.
8. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes, remove foil and bake 5 more minutes until golden and bubbly.
9. Let rest 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: main course
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: italian-american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 shells
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 700
- Fat: 40
- Saturated Fat: 20
- Unsaturated Fat: 15
- Trans Fat: 0.5
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 30
- Cholesterol: 120
Keywords: alfredo stuffed shells, chicken alfredo stuffed shells, stuffed shells recipe, chicken alfredo recipes, stuffed chicken alfredo shells, creamy chicken pasta, baked stuffed shells
This dish is as practical as it is comforting. Busy weeknight? You can prep the filling in advance or even use leftover rotisserie chicken. Hosting a get-together? These Stuffed Chicken Alfredo Shells Recipes bake beautifully and serve a crowd without extra effort. The combination of everyday ingredients and classic flavors makes it a winning recipe for nearly any occasion.
Whether you’re an Alfredo enthusiast or just searching for a new Stuffed Shells Recipe to add to your rotation, this one promises creamy success every time. The result? Golden-baked shells bubbling over with cheesy goodness and a dish that’s as cozy and reliable as your favorite sweater.
Building the Flavor: Ingredients for Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
The Creamy Core: What You’ll Need for the Sauce and Filling
When it comes to Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, every rich, cozy bite starts with the right ingredients. You don’t need anything fancy—just a combination of pantry staples and a few fresh items to bring that classic Alfredo flavor to life. The buttery garlic base pairs perfectly with shredded chicken and a blend of cheeses that melt into irresistible creaminess.
Here’s exactly what you’ll need to make this Stuffed Shells Recipe shine:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked chicken breast | 2 cups | Shredded |
| Jumbo pasta shells | 18–20 | Cooked to al dente |
| Butter | 4 tbsp | Unsalted |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Heavy cream | 2 cups | Or half-and-half |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup | Grated |
| Mozzarella | 1 cup | Shredded |
| Italian herbs | 1 tsp | Dried or fresh |
| Salt & Pepper | to taste | Adjust to liking |
Each ingredient brings its own touch: creamy butter and garlic make the base of the Alfredo sauce, while heavy cream and Parmesan create that signature richness. The mozzarella adds a gooey, golden top layer once baked, giving your Alfredo Stuffed Shells that perfect pull-apart texture.
If you’re short on time, this Stuffed Chicken Alfredo Shells Recipe is forgiving—use rotisserie chicken for easy prep or swap heavy cream for light cream or half-and-half. Want to refresh the flavor? Toss in a handful of chopped parsley, or add a pinch of nutmeg to warm up the sauce. With these adaptable ingredients, your Chicken Alfredo Recipes stay flavorful yet flexible for any day of the week.
Tools to Make Your Alfredo Stuffed Shells a Breeze
The beauty of this Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells recipe is that it doesn’t demand a crowded countertop of gadgets—just a few reliable tools to make things run smoothly. Here’s what will help bring it all together:
- Large pot: For boiling the jumbo pasta shells until just tender.
- Saucepan: To prepare the creamy Alfredo sauce with butter, garlic, and cream.
- Mixing bowls: One for the chicken and filling mixture, another for tossing the sauce.
- Baking dish (9×13): The perfect size for layering the shells without overcrowding.
- Whisk: Ensures the cream and cheese blend into a smooth, velvety sauce.
- Spatula or large spoon: For mixing and stuffing the shells easily.
Pro tips for easy cooking and cleanup: Before you get started, fill your sink with warm soapy water—quick rinses between steps prevent sticky dishes from piling up. When boiling pasta, add a little olive oil to the water; it keeps the shells from sticking together and makes filling them later a breeze.
Investing in a sturdy whisk and a quality baking dish makes a difference in achieving that luscious consistency this Stuffed Shells Recipe is known for. By the time the golden cheese starts bubbling in the oven, you’ll know the extra care was worth it.
With these simple tools and staple ingredients, you’re all set to move from preparation to baking—the step where magic truly happens in these creamy Alfredo Stuffed Shells.
Bringing It Together: Step-by-Step Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Now that your ingredients and tools are ready, it’s time to turn them into a delicious pan of Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells. This part of the process is as comforting as the first bite itself—each step brings the flavors together, creating that golden, creamy masterpiece you’ll want to make again and again.
- Boil the Jumbo Shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your jumbo pasta shells and cook them until just al dente, usually 9–10 minutes (check the package instructions). Drain carefully and drizzle a touch of olive oil to prevent them from sticking. Lay them out on a baking sheet or parchment paper to cool while you prep the filling. - Prepare the Creamy Alfredo Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—don’t let it brown. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir often, allowing it to thicken slightly over 4–5 minutes. Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to taste. The result should be rich and silky, coating the back of your spoon perfectly. - Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with about 1 cup of the prepared Alfredo sauce and half the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until well-coated and creamy—this becomes your stuffed shell filling. - Stuff the Shells
Using a spoon or small scoop, gently fill each cooled pasta shell with the chicken mixture. They should be snugly full but not overstuffed. - Assemble and Layer
Spread about ½ cup of the remaining Alfredo sauce on the bottom of your greased baking dish (9×13 inches works beautifully). Arrange the stuffed shells neatly in the dish, open side up. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the top, then sprinkle on the rest of the mozzarella and an extra dusting of Parmesan for that irresistible golden crust. - Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish loosely with foil to keep it from drying out, then bake for 25–30 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes for a lightly browned and golden finish.
Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cools, making every forkful perfectly creamy.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Every Time
- Add veggies for color and flavor. Stir in chopped spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted red peppers to the filling for extra freshness and balance.
- Save time with rotisserie chicken. Shredded rotisserie chicken works beautifully for quick preparation.
- Go for the golden top. Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan before baking for an added crunch and gorgeous color.
- Make-ahead magic. Assemble earlier, refrigerate, and bake later—just increase baking time slightly if chilled.
- Storage and reheating. Keeps well up to three days in the fridge; reheat in a 350°F oven, covering with foil and adding a splash of milk or cream.
- Customize your flavor. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or garlic powder to deepen the flavor.
Your kitchen will smell incredible the moment these Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells start to bubble in the oven. When you take that first creamy, cheesy bite, you’ll see why this Stuffed Chicken Alfredo Shells Recipe wins hearts at both family dinners and friendly potlucks. Simple to prep, rich with flavor, and endlessly comforting—this is one Stuffed Shells Recipe that proves cozy dinners don’t have to be complicated.
Your Questions About Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Answered
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Alfredo Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Stuffed Shells Recipe can be fully assembled in advance, tightly covered, and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5–10 extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge. - What can I serve with Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells?
Pair with Caesar salad, green salad with lemon vinaigrette, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini. - Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Definitely! Warm it with garlic, butter, and herbs for a richer, homemade taste. - How do I make it lighter?
Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or stir in Greek yogurt for creaminess with less fat. - How long do leftovers last?
Store up to three days in the refrigerator or freeze individual portions for a month. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.
Cozy Dinners Made Easy: Final Thoughts
When it comes to comfort food, Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells check every box—creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. From the first bite of tender chicken wrapped in silky Alfredo sauce to the golden, bubbling mozzarella on top, this Stuffed Shells Recipe brings familiar warmth to any dinner table.
It’s the kind of recipe that works for anything from a relaxed weeknight meal to a weekend get-together. With simple ingredients, rich flavor, and fuss-free preparation, these Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a keeper for both beginners and seasoned home cooks.
Next time you crave cozy food that feels special but stays easy, try this Stuffed Chicken Alfredo Shells Recipe. Serve it hot, watch it disappear, and create new memories around every creamy, comforting bite.
