Luscious Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe

Comfort meets elegance in these delightful chicken broccoli alfredo stuffed shells that promise a restaurant-worthy experience right at your dinner table.

Tender pasta shells cradle a rich, creamy mixture of shredded chicken and vibrant broccoli florets.

The homemade alfredo sauce adds a luxurious touch to every single bite.

Cheese melts into every crevice, creating pockets of pure deliciousness that will make your taste buds dance.

Each shell bursts with flavor, combining classic Italian-inspired ingredients in a hearty, satisfying dish.

This recipe transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal that feels both familiar and exciting.

Prepare to savor every decadent, cheesy forkful of this irresistible pasta creation.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works perfectly. Just thaw and drain it well before chopping and adding to the shells to prevent excess moisture.

• What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation or shredded chicken thighs for more flavor.

• How can I make this recipe lighter?

Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Use low-fat mozzarella and reduce the amount of parmesan cheese to cut down on calories and fat.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. They also freeze well for future meals, making them perfect for busy weeknights.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Calories: 660 kcal

Servings: 4

Chicken Alfredo Shells Ingredient List

• Jumbo Shells: Provide sturdy vessel for delectable stuffing, choose thick-walled shells for maximum filling capacity.

• Chicken Breasts, Chicken Tenders: Lean protein that creates tender, succulent core of dish, select fresh, high-quality cuts.
• Broccoli Florets: Adds nutritious green crunch, pick vibrant green, firm florets without yellow spots.

• Butter: Creates silky sauce foundation, select unsalted for precise flavor control.
• Heavy Cream: Delivers luxurious richness and smooth texture, choose full-fat version for best results.
• Parmesan Cheese: Provides sharp, nutty depth, opt for freshly grated block cheese over pre-shredded.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Generates irresistible melty stretch, select low-moisture variety for optimal melting.
• Garlic: Infuses aromatic warmth, choose fresh cloves for most intense flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning enhancers, use freshly ground black pepper for maximum zest.

Kitchen Tools for Stuffed Pasta Night

• Large Pot: Essential for boiling jumbo pasta shells in salted water.
• Colander: Needed to drain cooked pasta shells and remove excess water.
• Skillet or Grill Pan: Perfect for cooking and shredding chicken breasts.
• Steamer Basket: Helps steam broccoli florets to tender-crisp perfection.
• Large Saucepan: Used for creating creamy alfredo sauce with butter and cream.
• Baking Dish: Provides the perfect vessel for assembling and baking stuffed shells.
• Cheese Grater: Helps grate fresh parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
• Mixing Spoon or Spatula: Useful for stirring sauce and mixing filling ingredients.
• Foil: Covers the dish during initial baking to prevent excessive browning.

Fill and Bake Chicken Alfredo Shells with Ease

• Boil Pasta Shells

Grab large pasta shells and cook them in salted water until they’re soft but not mushy. Drain and let them cool down.

• Prepare Protein and Veggies

Cook chicken thoroughly and slice into bite-sized pieces. Steam broccoli until tender but still bright green, then chop into small chunks.

• Whip Up Creamy Sauce

Melt butter in a pan, add minced garlic, and pour in heavy cream. Sprinkle parmesan cheese, stirring until the mixture becomes smooth and thick. Season with salt and pepper.

• Create Stuffed Shells

Warm up the oven to 375F. Spread a thin layer of sauce in a baking dish. Fill each shell with chicken, broccoli, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Arrange shells neatly in the dish.

• Bake and Finish

Pour remaining sauce over the shells. Top with extra cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 5-10 minutes until cheese turns golden.

• Serve Deliciously

Let the dish rest for a few minutes. Plate up and enjoy with a side of crispy garlic bread or fresh salad.

Boost Alfredo Flavor with These Shell Tips

• Adjust your Alfredo sauce consistency by simmering longer for a thicker texture or adding a splash of pasta water to thin it out if needed.
• Replace chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken, ground turkey, or plant-based protein crumbles for diverse meal options.
• Substitute pasta shells with large roasted zucchini boats or blanched cabbage leaves for a lower-carbohydrate alternative that's equally delicious.
• Prepare the entire dish ahead, wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator and reheat at 350F until warmed through and bubbly.
• Use cashew cream instead of heavy cream, nutritional yeast in place of parmesan, and dairy-free mozzarella to create a completely lactose-free version that doesn't compromise on creamy richness.

Serve Alfredo Shells Creamy and Hot

• Perfect Dinner Companions: Crisp Side Salad: Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a light vinaigrette to balance the rich, creamy pasta dish. The fresh, zesty salad cuts through the heaviness of the alfredo.
• Garlic Bread Bliss: Warm, crusty garlic bread makes an incredible sidekick. Slice a baguette, brush with garlic butter, sprinkle with parsley, and toast until golden brown for a delicious accompaniment that soaks up extra sauce.
• Wine Pairing Perfection: Choose a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. These lighter wines complement the creamy chicken and cheese without overwhelming the delicate flavors of the stuffed shells.
• Quick Veggie Boost: Roast some asparagus or green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a quick, nutritious side that adds color and nutrients to your meal. These simple vegetables provide a nice contrast to the rich pasta.

Store Stuffed Shells for Quick Reheats

• Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Seal tightly to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss, keeping the pasta's texture and flavor intact.
• Prepare an extra batch and freeze unbaked shells for convenient future meals. Wrap the dish securely with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. These shells can be frozen for 2-3 months, providing a quick dinner option.
• Restore the delicious flavor and texture by warming refrigerated shells in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out, ensuring the Alfredo sauce remains creamy and shells stay tender.
• Portion individual shells into separate containers for easy grab-and-go lunches. This method helps control portions and makes meal prep a breeze for busy weekdays, keeping your chicken broccoli alfredo stuffed shells fresh and delectable.

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe

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4.9 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Scrumptious chicken broccoli alfredo stuffed shells bring Italian comfort to dinner tables. Rich pasta pockets pack creamy cheese, tender chicken, and garden-fresh broccoli into one satisfying meal you’ll savor with delight.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups (250 g) cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 ½ cups (150 g) steamed broccoli, chopped
• 1 cup (100 g) ricotta cheese
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese (for Alfredo sauce)
• ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
• ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
• 2 cups (480 ml / 16 fl oz) heavy cream
• 4 tbsps (60 g) unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Shell Preparation: Boil jumbo pasta shells in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Protein and Vegetable Preparation: Cook chicken breasts until fully done, then shred or dice. Steam broccoli florets briefly, maintaining their vibrant color and slight crunch, then chop into small, uniform pieces.
3. Alfredo Sauce Creation: In a large saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, allowing it to simmer gently. Whisk in parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper until the sauce transforms into a smooth, thick consistency.
4. Shell Assembly: Preheat oven to 375F (190C). Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce in the baking dish. Stuff each shell with a mixture of shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, and mozzarella cheese, arranging them carefully in the dish.
5. Baking Process: Pour remaining Alfredo sauce over the stuffed shells. Generously sprinkle additional mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbling. Remove foil and continue baking 5-10 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy cheese crust.
6. Serving: Let the dish rest briefly after removing from the oven. Serve hot with complementary sides like garlic bread or a crisp salad to complete the meal.

Notes

Optimize Shell Preparation: Select jumbo shells carefully, avoiding overcooking. Slightly undercook them to prevent tearing during stuffing and maintain structural integrity during baking.

Manage Moisture Control: Pat chicken and broccoli thoroughly after cooking to eliminate excess liquid. Preventing unnecessary moisture ensures a rich, creamy filling without waterlogged shells.

Enhance Flavor Layering: Mix a portion of cheese directly into the chicken-broccoli filling for deeper taste integration. Consider adding herbs like basil or parsley to elevate the overall flavor profile.

Adapt for Dietary Needs: Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for lighter versions. Replace chicken with plant-based protein like tofu or shredded jackfruit for vegetarian alternatives. Use gluten-free pasta shells for those with wheat sensitivities.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 40 g
• Saturated Fat: 24 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg