Imagine tender jumbo pasta shells, overflowing with a rich and creamy chicken alfredo filling, baked to golden perfection. This isn’t just dinner; it’s an experience. Our recipe makes this classic comfort food surprisingly easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Table of contents
Ingredients and Preparation
Essential Ingredients
- Jumbo Pasta Shells: 1 box (12 ounces). These large shells are the perfect vessel for our creamy, cheesy filling. Choose a high-quality brand for the best texture.
- Chicken Breast: 1.5 pounds, boneless and skinless. Cooked and shredded. Chicken provides the protein backbone of this dish. Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.
- Alfredo Sauce: 24 ounces, either homemade or store-bought. A creamy, cheesy Alfredo is essential. For a richer flavor, consider making your own with heavy cream, butter, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
- Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces, whole milk. Adds a creamy, slightly tangy element to the filling. Drain any excess liquid before using.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated. Provides a salty, nutty flavor and helps bind the filling together. Avoid pre-grated Parmesan, as it doesn’t melt as well.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded. Creates a gooey, cheesy topping. Low-moisture mozzarella is recommended to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
- Spinach: 5 ounces, fresh or frozen (thawed and squeezed dry). Adds a touch of green and some nutritional value. Be sure to remove as much moisture as possible.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Adds a pungent aroma and flavor to the filling.
- Egg: 1 large, lightly beaten. Acts as a binder for the filling.
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon. A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. Essential for seasoning both the filling and the pasta water.
Kitchen Tools & Equipment
- Large Pot: For cooking the pasta shells.
- Colander: For draining the cooked pasta.
- Large Bowl: For mixing the filling.
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: For baking the stuffed shells.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Cheese Grater: For grating Parmesan and Mozzarella cheese.
- Mixing Spoons or Spatula: For combining the ingredients.
Preparation Steps
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo shells and cook according to package directions, until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: If using raw chicken breast, cook it by baking, poaching, or grilling until cooked through. Shred the chicken using two forks or a stand mixer.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, spinach, garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease the 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
Cooking Instructions
Step-by-Step Process
- Fill the Shells: Using a spoon or your fingers, carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the chicken and ricotta mixture. Be generous with the filling.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Arrange the filled shells in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
- Pour Alfredo Sauce: Pour the Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring that they are well coated.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top of the Alfredo sauce.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the shells are heated through.
- Rest: Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Techniques
- Al Dente Pasta: Cooking the pasta al dente ensures that it holds its shape and doesn’t become mushy during baking.
- Even Filling Distribution: Make sure the chicken and spinach are evenly distributed throughout the ricotta cheese mixture for consistent flavor in each shell.
- Baking with Foil: Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking prevents the cheese from browning too quickly and allows the shells to heat through evenly.
Quality Indicators
- Pasta: The pasta shells should be tender but firm, not mushy.
- Filling: The filling should be moist and flavorful, with a good balance of chicken, cheese, and spinach.
- Cheese: The cheese topping should be melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 550 kcal | 28% |
| Total Fat | 30g | 38% |
| Saturated Fat | 18g | 90% |
| Cholesterol | 150mg | 50% |
| Sodium | 700mg | 30% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 40g | 15% |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g | 11% |
| Total Sugars | 5g | – |
| Protein | 30g | 60% |
| Vitamin C | 5mg | 6% |
| Calcium | 300mg | 23% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
*Based on a 2000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Serving & Variations
Best Serving Methods
Serve the Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells hot, directly from the baking dish. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat.
Flavor Variations
- Mushroom Alfredo: Add sautéed mushrooms to the Alfredo sauce for an earthy flavor.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: Swirl sun-dried tomato pesto into the ricotta filling for a burst of Mediterranean flavor.
- Spicy Alfredo: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions.
Pairing Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: A classic pairing for pasta dishes.
- Caesar Salad: A refreshing and crisp salad to balance the richness of the shells.
- Steamed Broccoli: A simple and healthy side dish.
- Italian Red Wine: A Chianti or Montepulciano pairs well with the flavors of the dish.
Pro Tip
For extra flavor, brown the shredded chicken in a skillet with a little butter and garlic before adding it to the ricotta mixture. This adds a layer of depth and richness to the filling.
FAQ
How long does it take to prepare Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells?
Preparation takes approximately 30-40 minutes, and cooking time is around 30-35 minutes. So, plan for about an hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.
Can I make Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What are the best substitutes for key ingredients?
- Ricotta Cheese: Cottage cheese (drained) can be used as a substitute, but it will have a slightly different texture.
- Alfredo Sauce: You can use a cream sauce made with heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese as a substitute.
- Jumbo Shells: Manicotti pasta can be used as an alternative, but it may require a slightly different cooking time.
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Tender jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich, creamy chicken and cheese mixture, topped with Alfredo sauce and baked to golden perfection. This comforting dish is ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, ricotta, 1/2 cup Parmesan, spinach, garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spoon the chicken mixture into each shell and arrange in the dish in a single layer.
- Pour Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Top with mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken to save time. For extra depth of flavor, sauté shredded chicken with garlic and butter before adding it to the filling. Drain spinach thoroughly to avoid watery shells.
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Conclusion
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a truly delicious and memorable dish. Buon appetito!
