Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells

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Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells offer a rich and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy Alfredo sauce, all stuffed into jumbo pasta shells and baked until golden. The result is a hearty, cheesy meal with layers of flavor. Whether you are an experienced home cook or just starting, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers restaurant-quality results.

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Stuffed shells are a classic Italian-American comfort food, traditionally filled with ricotta and tomato sauce. This variation replaces the usual filling with a creamy chicken and broccoli mixture, making it a more protein-rich and indulgent dish. The homemade Alfredo sauce enhances the flavors with its buttery, garlicky richness. By following this guide, you will learn how to make each component from scratch while also picking up tips to customize the dish to your taste.

This recipe is perfect for meal prep, as the shells can be made in advance and stored for later use. It is also a great way to use up leftover chicken. Whether served as a main course for a family dinner or a dish for gatherings, these stuffed shells will impress with their creamy texture and bold flavors.

Ingredients and Preparation

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for marinating and cooking)
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning
• 1 tablespoon Sazon seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Shells and Filling:

• 1 box jumbo pasta shells
• 1 cup broccoli florets, cooked and chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 1 stick unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 16 ounces heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 block cream cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful, cheesy, and creamy dish. While the ingredient list may seem long, each element is crucial in building the dish’s rich flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by dicing the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken with olive oil, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, Creole seasoning, Sazon, and smoked paprika. Mix well, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Broccoli

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes until they become tender but still vibrant in color. Drain the broccoli, chop it into small pieces, and set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and add the cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture becomes smooth.

Add grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and reaches a smooth consistency. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the shells aside to cool slightly.

Step 5: Assemble the Stuffed Shells

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, chopped broccoli, shredded Parmesan, grated Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese. Pour in a portion of the Alfredo sauce and mix well to create a creamy filling.

Take each cooked pasta shell and spoon the filling into it. Place the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish, arranging them in a single layer. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the shells, ensuring they are evenly coated. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese and a dash of Italian seasoning on top.

Step 6: Bake the Stuffed Shells

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese on top becomes golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the stuffed shells are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, shred it and use it instead of cooking fresh chicken. This can save time and reduce prep work.
• Do Not Overcook Pasta Shells: Boil the shells until just al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked shells may fall apart while stuffing.
• Adjust the Alfredo Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water or a little extra cream to loosen it.
• Make It Ahead: The stuffed shells can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
• Customize the Filling: While this recipe includes chicken and broccoli, you can experiment with other ingredients such as spinach, mushrooms, or even ground beef for a variation in flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• With Garlic Bread: Serve the stuffed shells with warm garlic bread to soak up the extra Alfredo sauce.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the dish.
• Steamed Vegetables: Additional steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans make a nutritious complement.
• Grilled Chicken or Steak: If serving for a larger gathering, pair the stuffed shells with grilled chicken or steak for a heartier meal.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the creamy Alfredo sauce.

Engagement Features

• Make It Your Own: Experiment with different cheeses, add a bit of spice with red pepper flakes, or try using whole wheat pasta shells for a healthier twist.
• Family-Friendly Cooking: This is a great recipe to make with family members, as stuffing the shells can be a fun and engaging activity for kids and adults alike.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare a double batch and freeze one for later. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake until warmed through.
• Interactive Cooking Night: Invite friends over for a “stuff-your-own-shells” night where everyone can customize their filling and toppings.

This Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells recipe brings together comforting flavors in a creamy, cheesy dish that is easy to make and sure to impress. With step-by-step guidance and helpful tips, even beginners can create a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home. Whether served for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, these stuffed shells are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.