If you’re in the mood for a comforting pasta dish that combines tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and fresh broccoli all wrapped up in jumbo shells, look no further! These Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells are packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Get ready to indulge in this cheesy, saucy masterpiece!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This stuffed shell recipe takes the classic flavors of Alfredo, chicken, and broccoli and elevates them by wrapping everything in perfectly cooked pasta shells. The result is a hearty, satisfying dish that’s both indulgent and versatile. Plus, it can be customized with extra veggies, spices, or even different cheeses to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Filling:
- 1 lb jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast (you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
- 2 cups chopped fresh broccoli florets , steamed until tender
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese , divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Red pepper flakes for heat
- Extra Parmesan or mozzarella for extra cheesiness
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk , continuing to stir until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream , Parmesan cheese , basil , and oregano . Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep the sauce warm while preparing the filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken , steamed broccoli , mozzarella cheese (reserve 1 cup for topping), and garlic powder .
- Pour about half of the Alfredo sauce into the bowl and mix gently until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Fill each cooked pasta shell with the chicken-broccoli mixture, placing them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they’re lightly coated.
Step 5: Bake the Stuffed Shells
- Sprinkle the reserved mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the shells.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes .
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes , or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Let the stuffed shells rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve hot alongside garlic bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Making Perfect Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells
- Customize the Veggies : Swap out or add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for variety.
- Make Ahead : Prepare the shells up to a day in advance, refrigerate them, and bake when ready. Simply increase the baking time by 10–15 minutes if starting from cold.
- Freeze for Later : Portion out the unbaked stuffed shells, freeze them, and bake directly from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
- Go Lighter : Use part-skim mozzarella and reduced-fat Alfredo ingredients to keep things healthier without sacrificing flavor.
- Add Protein : Toss in some cooked shrimp or sausage for an extra boost of protein.
Final Thoughts
These Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells bring together the best of comfort food—creamy Alfredo sauce, juicy chicken, and fresh broccoli—all nestled in perfectly stuffed pasta shells. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with a side of crusty bread, these shells are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!
If you loved this recipe, explore more delicious pasta dishes on our website. From lasagnas to ziti, we’ve got everything you need to keep your meals exciting and flavorful. Happy cooking! 🍴✨
