Name: Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe

A hearty, cheesy pasta dish that’s packed with flavor.
Combines the richness of Alfredo sauce with the comfort of baked pasta.
Perfect for make-ahead meals and freezer-friendly dinners.
Customizable with different proteins, sauces, or added veggies.
A family-friendly recipe that will impress guests at the dinner table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 ounces jumbo pasta shells
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let cool.
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Spread 1/2 cup Alfredo sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Stuff each pasta shell with the chicken and cheese mixture and place them in the dish.
In a small bowl, mix the remaining Alfredo sauce with heavy cream and pour over the stuffed shells.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil, sprinkle extra mozzarella if desired, and bake for 10 more minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Garnish with parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories: About 450 kcal per serving

Variations

Swap chicken with cooked turkey, shrimp, or ground beef for a new flavor.
Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the filling for extra nutrition.
Use a different sauce like marinara or pesto instead of Alfredo.
Try cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lighter filling.
Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or using a Cajun Alfredo sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in portions.
Freeze unbaked stuffed shells in a covered dish for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 extra minutes to the cook time.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the shells, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What pasta should I use if I can’t find jumbo shells?

Manicotti or cannelloni tubes are great substitutes.

Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce?

Yes, homemade Alfredo sauce adds an even fresher, richer flavor.

How do I prevent the shells from sticking together?

After cooking, toss them lightly with a drizzle of olive oil to keep them from clumping.

Can I freeze baked stuffed shells?

Yes, but for best texture, freeze them before baking. If freezing after baking, reheat covered in the oven.

What cheese can I substitute for ricotta?

Cottage cheese or mascarpone are good alternatives.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, omit the chicken and add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.

How do I keep the shells from drying out when reheating?

Cover with foil and add a splash of cream or extra sauce before reheating in the oven.

What side dishes go best with Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully with this dish.

Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta, creamy filling, and rich Alfredo sauce in one baked dish. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Its versatility, make-ahead potential, and indulgent flavors make it a dish worth adding to your recipe collection.