Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a rich, comforting, and crowd-pleasing meal, these Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a must-try! Large pasta shells are generously stuffed with a creamy mixture of shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, and melted cheeses, then baked until bubbly and golden. This dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures—perfect for dinner gatherings, special occasions, or a family night in.

Ingredients

• 1 lb jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 jar Alfredo sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain them and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until fully combined and creamy.
4. Stuff the Shells: Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken and Alfredo mixture, ensuring each shell is generously filled. Arrange the stuffed shells in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top the Shells: Once all the shells are stuffed, pour any remaining Alfredo sauce over the top. Sprinkle extra shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the shells for a cheesy, golden finish.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned on top.
7. Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let the shells cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or a mix of your favorite vegetables for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
• Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick. You can also add chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
• Different Sauces: If you’re not a fan of Alfredo sauce, try using a tomato-based marinara or a creamy béchamel sauce instead.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, but the oven will help retain the cheesy, bubbly texture.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought shredded chicken?
   Yes, you can use pre-cooked shredded chicken from a store or even rotisserie chicken for convenience.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes! You can prepare the stuffed shells, cover them, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply add an extra 10 minutes of baking time if baking from cold.
3. Can I freeze Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells?
   Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked stuffed shells for up to 3 months. Just bake from frozen for an extra 10-15 minutes.
4. What type of pasta shell should I use?
   Jumbo pasta shells are ideal for this recipe because they hold the filling well. If you can’t find them, you can use manicotti tubes as an alternative.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Absolutely! You can substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses for other cheeses like cheddar, Gouda, or provolone, depending on your preference.
6. How can I make this dish healthier?
   Use whole wheat pasta shells, low-fat Alfredo sauce, and reduced-fat cheese to lighten it up. You can also add more vegetables, like spinach or zucchini, for added nutrition.
7. What should I serve with these stuffed shells?
   A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables pairs wonderfully with this rich dish.
8. Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce?
   Yes, homemade Alfredo sauce will work great in this recipe! It will add a richer, more personalized flavor.
9. How can I make these shells more savory?
   You can sauté the shredded chicken with garlic, onions, and Italian seasoning to give the filling more depth of flavor before mixing it with the sauce and cheeses.
10. Can I make a larger batch of this recipe?
    Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. You may need to bake it a little longer to ensure everything is cooked through.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food, packed with flavor and a creamy, cheesy filling that will have everyone coming back for seconds. This dish is easy to prepare and guarantees a satisfying, hearty meal every time. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, these stuffed shells are sure to impress. Enjoy the delicious combination of tender pasta, creamy sauce, and flavorful chicken in every bite!

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