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Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells


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  • Author: Paula Susan
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

These Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells are the perfect mix of comfort and indulgence! 🧀🍗 Each pasta shell is loaded with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, then baked to bubbly perfection. Easy, beginner-friendly, and oh-so-satisfying! 🍽️✨


Ingredients

Scale

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

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.

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.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes