Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells

by

Looking for a scrumptious yet easy-to-make meal to delight your taste buds? Look no further than these Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells! Packed with the goodness of tender chicken, wholesome broccoli, and creamy alfredo sauce, this dish is a surefire way to please everyone at the dinner table. Follow this simple recipe to create a comforting masterpiece that will have your family coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:

  • 1 jar (16 oz) of alfredo sauce
  • 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken
  • 2 cups of cooked broccoli, finely chopped
  • 1 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup of shredded parmesan cheese
  • 21 jumbo pasta shells, cooked
  • 1 ½ – 2 cups of spaghetti sauce (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it’s ready to bake your delicious stuffed shells to perfection.

2. Prepare the Filling: In a spacious bowl, combine the alfredo sauce, shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, and shredded parmesan. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated, creating a rich and creamy filling.

3. Fill the Pasta Shells: Carefully spoon the prepared mixture into each cooked jumbo pasta shell, ensuring they are evenly filled with the delightful combination of flavors.

4. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. For an extra burst of flavor, spread a layer of spaghetti sauce evenly on the bottom of the dish.

5. Arrange the Stuffed Shells: Place the filled pasta shells in a single layer within the prepared baking dish, arranging them neatly to fit snugly.

6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Allow the stuffed shells to bake for approximately 35 minutes or until heated through, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

7. Serve: Once baked to perfection, remove the foil from the baking dish and serve your Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells hot and garnished with additional shredded cheese if desired.

Nutritional Information:

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Suggestions:

  • Pair these delectable Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells with a fresh garden salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a well-balanced meal.
  • Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil to add a pop of color and freshness.
  • Serve alongside some warm garlic breadsticks or crusty Italian bread for dipping into the creamy alfredo sauce.

Storage Guidelines:

  • If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • To reheat, simply place the stuffed shells in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high in 30-second intervals until heated through.
  • Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, covered with foil, for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed to your liking.

Freezing Instructions:

  • If you want to freeze the stuffed shells for later use, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and flash freeze for about an hour.
  • Once frozen, transfer the shells to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
  • They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
  • When ready to enjoy, thaw the stuffed shells overnight in the refrigerator before reheating according to the above instructions.

Make-Ahead Tip:

  • Save time on busy weeknights by preparing the stuffed shells in advance and refrigerating them until ready to bake.
  • Simply follow the recipe up to the point of baking, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
  • When ready to serve, remove the dish from the refrigerator, uncover, and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy the deliciousness of Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells whenever the craving strikes, whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend feast!

Variations:

  1. Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, omit the chicken and add extra broccoli or your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the filling mixture.
  2. Seafood Twist: Incorporate cooked shrimp or crab meat into the filling mixture for a delightful seafood twist. You can also use a seafood alfredo sauce for added flavor.
  3. Spicy Kick: Add a touch of heat by mixing in diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the filling mixture. You can also drizzle some sriracha sauce over the stuffed shells before serving for an extra kick.
  4. Italian Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor profile by adding a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or dried herbs such as basil, oregano, and thyme to the filling mixture.
  5. Cheese Lover’s Delight: Experiment with different types of cheeses such as fontina, gouda, or asiago for a unique and indulgent twist. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking for a gooey, cheesy finish.
  6. Alfredo Spinach Artichoke: Transform this dish into an Alfredo Spinach Artichoke version by incorporating chopped spinach and marinated artichoke hearts into the filling mixture. The creamy spinach and artichoke combination adds a delicious depth of flavor.
  7. Pesto Infusion: Add a dollop of pesto sauce to the filling mixture for a burst of fresh herb flavor. The vibrant green color and aromatic basil will elevate the dish to new heights.
  8. Mushroom Medley: Saute a mix of assorted mushrooms such as cremini, shiitake, and portobello before adding them to the filling mixture. The earthy richness of the mushrooms pairs beautifully with the creamy alfredo sauce.
  9. Greek Inspired: Incorporate Mediterranean flavors by adding chopped kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese to the filling mixture. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce for a Greek-inspired twist.
  10. Tex-Mex Fusion: Give this dish a Tex-Mex flair by replacing the alfredo sauce with a creamy chipotle sauce and adding ingredients like black beans, corn, and diced green chilies to the filling mixture. Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

FAQs :

  1. Can I use fresh pasta shells instead of jumbo pasta shells? Fresh pasta shells can be used, but ensure they are cooked al dente before filling to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.
  2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just remember to increase the baking time slightly if baking from cold.
  3. Can I freeze the stuffed shells? Absolutely! Follow the freezing instructions provided in the storage tips section, and you can enjoy these stuffed shells at a later time.
  4. What can I serve with Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells? These stuffed shells pair well with a variety of sides such as garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
  5. Can I use homemade alfredo sauce instead of store-bought? Yes, homemade alfredo sauce can be used for a fresher taste. Just make sure it’s a creamy and well-seasoned sauce.
  6. Can I make this dish gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
  7. How do I know when the stuffed shells are done baking? The stuffed shells are done baking when the filling is heated through, and the cheese is melted and bubbly on top.
  8. Can I add extra vegetables to the filling? Absolutely! Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or peas.
  9. Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken? Yes, you can substitute the chicken with cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage for a different flavor profile.
  10. Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes, you can use dairy-free alternatives for the cheeses and alfredo sauce to make this dish dairy-free. Just ensure the substitutes melt well and have a creamy texture.

With its creamy alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli, these Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this dish is sure to leave everyone satisfied and craving more. So, roll up your sleeves and indulge in the comforting goodness of this irresistible recipe!