Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells recipe

Introduction

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a delightful combination of jumbo pasta shells filled with tender chicken and steamed broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy Alfredo sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners and is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying textures.

Ingredients

18 to 20 jumbo pasta shells
1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
15-30 oz Alfredo sauce (1-2 jars)
½ teaspoon coarse black pepper
2 cups cooked, chopped chicken
2 cups steamed, chopped broccoli
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup grated mozzarella cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook Pasta: Boil the jumbo pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In a large pot, heat the Alfredo sauce. Season with black pepper, then stir in the grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and well combined.
4. Add Chicken & Broccoli: Stir the cooked, chopped chicken and steamed broccoli into the Alfredo sauce, heating the mixture until warm.
5. Stuff the Shells: Spoon the chicken, broccoli, and sauce mixture into each cooked pasta shell.
6. Serve or Bake: To serve immediately, place the stuffed shells on a serving dish and top with additional Alfredo sauce if desired. To bake, place the stuffed shells in a baking dish over a layer of extra Alfredo sauce. Cover and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit chicken and add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
• Different Sauce: Use a homemade Alfredo sauce for a fresher taste.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like fontina or gouda for unique flavors.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells and refrigerate them before baking.
2. Can I freeze Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells? Yes, assemble the dish and freeze it before baking. Bake from frozen, adding extra time.
3. What can I serve with this dish? A simple side salad or garlic bread complements this dish well.
4. Can I use different types of pasta? Jumbo shells work best, but you can use manicotti or even cannelloni.
5. Is this dish kid-friendly? Yes, kids often enjoy the cheesy, creamy flavors!
6. What type of chicken should I use? Cooked, shredded or chopped chicken breast works best.
7. How do I make my own Alfredo sauce? Combine butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese over low heat until melted and smooth.
8. Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
9. What can I do with leftover Alfredo sauce? Use it for pasta, as a pizza sauce, or in casseroles.
10. How can I make this dish healthier? Use whole wheat pasta, low-fat cheese, and add more vegetables.

Conclusion

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells offer a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please. Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated as leftovers, this dish is a great addition to your family dinner rotation. Enjoy the creamy goodness and the delightful combination of chicken and broccoli in every bite!

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