Ah, Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells – the dish that makes me feel like a kitchen superstar! If you’ve ever had one of those days where all you want is comfort food, this recipe is your best friend. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with chicken and veggies. Not only does it taste incredible, but it also looks fantastic when plated—a true crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!
I remember the first time I made this dish. It was on a chilly Sunday afternoon, perfect for staying in and whipping up something special. My friends came over, and their eyes lit up as I pulled the bubbly, golden shells out of the oven. Fast forward to today, and this dish is a staple in my kitchen. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a weeknight dinner, these stuffed shells never disappoint!
What’s in Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells?
Let’s break down the star ingredients that will make your kitchen smell heavenly:
Jumbo Pasta Shells: These big guys are perfect for stuffing! They hold all that gooey goodness inside, turning every bite into a delightful experience.
Cooked Chicken, Shredded: The main protein in our dish. I typically use rotisserie chicken for ease and flavor, but any leftover cooked chicken will do just fine.
Broccoli Florets: A classic pairing with chicken and Alfredo, broccoli adds color and crunch. Don’t worry if you’re not a fan of fresh; steamed frozen works just as well.
Alfredo Sauce: The creamy element that ties everything together! You can use store-bought for convenience or whip up a homemade batch if you’re feeling adventurous.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese contributes to the rich texture of the filling. It’s like the secret weapon of cheesy goodness!
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Who doesn’t love that melty, stretchy cheese? It’s a must-have for topping our stuffed shells.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: This adds a salty, nutty depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These two spices bring out hearty flavors in our stuffing.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing everything together in perfect harmony.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of this vibrant herb on top adds a lovely touch and freshness to your dish!
Is Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about health. It’s always a good idea to consider the nutritional value of our meals, right?
Chicken: Packed with protein, chicken is excellent for muscle repair and keeps you feeling full.
Broccoli: This powerhouse veggie is loaded with vitamins C and K and is a great source of fiber—so feel free to load up on those florets!
Alfredo Sauce: This is where things get creamy and comforting, but keep in mind it can be high in calories, especially if making it from scratch. A light version can be an option!
Cheese: While cheese is delicious, it also adds to the calorie count and fat content, so moderation is key if you’re watching your intake.
Serving up these stuffed shells is a wonderful way to balance comfort food with nutrient-rich ingredients.
Ingredients List
– 12-16 jumbo pasta shells
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed and chopped
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This recipe serves about 4-6 hungry individuals, depending on how many shells you each want!
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells?
Ready to dive into this recipe? Let’s do it!
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The smell of baking is unbeatable!
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. (Trust me, nobody likes a mushy shell!)
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined. I feel like a chef every time I do this!
4. Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. This helps prevent sticking and adds flavor to the bottom!
5. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken and broccoli mixture and place them in the baking dish. Fill them generously—you know you want to!
6. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure they’re all covered in that luscious sauce.
7. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. More cheese is always a good idea!
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. This stage keeps everything nice and moist.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Ah, that golden crust is what I live for!
10. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
And voilà! You’ve made a beautiful, delectable dish.
Creative Serving Suggestions for a Delectable Meal
Here are some fun tips to enhance your stuffed shell experience:
– Pair it with a light salad sprinkled with lemon vinaigrette to balance the comfort of the shells.
– For a bit of kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes sprinkled on top before serving!
– Leftovers (if there are any) reheat beautifully in the microwave—make sure to cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture!
I can’t wait for you to try these Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells! They’re a magical combination of creamy goodness, and I promise you, your friends and family will be raving about them long after the meal is over. I’d love to hear how they turn out for you, and maybe share a few stories while you’re at it! Happy cooking!
