Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells – 5-Star Recipe
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells/magicinkitchen.com
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells loaded with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and cheesy goodness. A quick, delicious dinner for the whole family.
Table of Contents
Introduction
If you’re craving a comforting, creamy dinner that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor, Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells is the ultimate choice. Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions, this dish combines tender pasta shells, juicy chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich Alfredo sauce. This recipe is easy to prepare, kid-friendly, and guaranteed to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 20 large pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 2 cups steamed broccoli, chopped
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly.
- Cook Pasta Shells: Boil pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
- Stuff Shells: Fill each cooked pasta shell with the chicken and broccoli mixture and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- Add Alfredo Sauce: Pour the Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh Caesar salad.
- Pair with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Why This Recipe Works Every Time
This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and creamy Alfredo sauce creates a harmonious blend of flavors. The addition of fresh broccoli adds not only a vibrant pop of color but also a nutritional boost, making it a well-balanced meal your family will love.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells
To ensure your stuffed shells turn out perfectly every time, make sure the pasta shells are cooked al dente—they should be soft but still hold their shape. Don’t overfill each shell; this helps keep them intact during baking. Using a mix of cheeses, including ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, provides a creamy, cheesy texture that melts beautifully in the oven.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking. You can swap chicken for turkey or even use sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Serve these stuffed shells with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete Italian-inspired dinner. For a little extra flavor, drizzle a bit of pesto or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A1: Yes, just thaw and steam it before adding it to the filling.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! Assemble the shells a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
Q3: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A3: Yes, provolone or fontina can be substituted for mozzarella for a slightly different flavor.
Conclusion & Call-to-Action
These Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with protein and veggies, they’re perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Try this recipe today and leave a comment letting us know how much your family loved it! For more delicious, easy, and family-friendly recipes, visit Magic in Kitchen.
