Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a dreamy, delicious dish that combines creamy Alfredo sauce with savory chicken and cheesy goodness. This comforting recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even meal prepping for the week. Each stuffed shell is filled to the brim with a luscious mixture that’s both satisfying and bursting with flavor, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Why Make This Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
If you’re looking for a meal that impresses without requiring too much time or culinary skill, this is it! These stuffed shells are not only easy to make, but they also offer a rich, comforting taste profile that is so satisfying. The blend of creamy ricotta, tangy Parmesan, and melty mozzarella creates a flavor explosion in every bite, while the tender chicken adds heartiness to the dish. This recipe allows you to take basic ingredients, elevate them, and serve a crowd-pleasing meal that feels indulgent and special.
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Making Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. From boiling the pasta to baking the filled shells, you’ll love how simple it is to bring this dish together. With just a few easy steps, you will create a fantastic meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Olive oil
Directions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo shells until al dente, making sure not to overcook them, or they will tear during stuffing.
- Drain the shells, rinse them with cool water, and toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread 1 cup of Alfredo sauce in the bottom to prevent sticking.
- Fill each shell with the chicken mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Arrange the shells open-side up in the baking dish for even coverage with sauce.
- Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the filled shells and sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese on top for that melty finish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells offers:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
This nutritional breakdown is a general estimate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
These stuffed shells are perfect for serving family-style. Set the baking dish right on the table and let everyone dig in! Pair them with a simple green salad tossed with olive oil and lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish. Warm garlic bread on the side brings an extra crunch that everyone will enjoy.
How to Store Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely since they are so delicious), store the stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the shells in a baking dish, add a splash of milk or extra Alfredo sauce to keep them moist, and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
- Cooking the Shells: Don’t overcook the pasta! Al dente is the way to go; they will finish cooking in the oven.
- Meal Prep: You can make these shells ahead of time. Assemble them and store them, covered tightly with foil, in the fridge for up to one day before baking.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to switch up the cheeses! Try adding Monterey Jack or different Italian cheeses to the mix for varied flavors.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for a well-seasoned mix of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini for a tasty meatless version.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for some heat.
- Herbed Delight: Swap dried Italian seasoning with fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor. Basil and thyme work especially well in this recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes, feel free to use store-bought Alfredo sauce for convenience. Just make sure to choose a brand that you enjoy for the best flavor!What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
Cream cheese mixed with a little milk can work in a pinch, or try cottage cheese for a similar texture.Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Absolutely! Assemble the shells before baking, then cover tightly and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy goodness stuffed into tender pasta. They are simple to prepare but absolutely luxurious in taste. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish will satisfy and impress. We hope you’ll give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your collection! Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your delicious results with family and friends!
Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo shells until al dente, being careful not to overcook them.
- Drain the shells, rinse them with cool water, and toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and spread 1 cup of Alfredo sauce in the bottom to prevent sticking.
- Fill each shell with the chicken mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Arrange the shells open-side up in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the filled shells and sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.