Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe

Name: Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: For the Stuffed Shells:; 12 oz large pasta shells (jumbo shells); 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing); 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred); 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen); 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper (to taste); For the Alfredo Sauce:; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1 1/2 cups whole milk; 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper (to taste)

By funsmagcom@gmail.com

January 3, 2025

0

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Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe

Stuffed pasta shells are an absolute crowd-pleaser. Their large, inviting shape is perfect for holding a variety of fillings, from cheese to vegetables to hearty meats. Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells take this classic stuffed pasta dish to the next level by pairing tender, seasoned chicken with vibrant broccoli, all wrapped in a creamy Alfredo sauce. Baked in the oven until golden and bubbly, this dish is a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

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This recipe is ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep for the week. It’s comforting, rich, and filling, yet packed with vegetables to balance out the creaminess. It combines the rich flavors of chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and the slight bitterness of broccoli, all wrapped up in one satisfying bite.

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Instructions:

1. Prepping the Shells:

Cook the pasta shells: Begin by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions, but reduce the cooking time by 2-3 minutes to ensure they don’t overcook and become too soft when baking. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

2. Cooking the Chicken and Broccoli:

Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the garlic powder. Sauté the chicken until cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest for a few minutes before shredding or chopping it into small, bite-sized pieces.
Cook the broccoli: While the chicken cooks, steam the broccoli. You can either microwave it for about 3-4 minutes or steam it on the stove for 5-6 minutes until it’s tender but still bright green. Once cooked, chop the broccoli into small pieces. If using frozen broccoli, make sure it is thoroughly thawed and drained before adding it to the dish.

3. Making the Filling:

Prepare the ricotta mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella (reserving about 1 cup for topping), grated Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
Add the chicken and broccoli: Fold the shredded chicken and chopped broccoli into the ricotta mixture, making sure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Preparing the Alfredo Sauce:

Cook the sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring constantly to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Add the Parmesan and seasonings: Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, nutmeg, and salt and pepper to taste. Continue to stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy, and the Parmesan has fully melted into the sauce.

5. Assembling the Stuffed Shells:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Stuff the shells: Carefully spoon the chicken and broccoli filling into the cooked and cooled pasta shells. Don’t overfill them, as you want the filling to be compact but not spilling over.
Prepare the baking dish: Spread a thin layer of the Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer, nestling them into the sauce.
Top with Alfredo sauce and cheese: Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure each shell is generously covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the shells.

6. Baking the Stuffed Shells:

Cover and bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. This allows the shells to cook through and the filling to heat up.
Finish baking: After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the cheese on top to melt and become golden and bubbly.
Let it rest: Once baked, let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions:

Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the stuffed shells for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve with a side salad: Pair your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells with a light green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish.
Garlic bread: Serve alongside garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to soak up the extra Alfredo sauce.

Meal Prep

Make-ahead: These stuffed shells can be assembled a day in advance. Simply cover the unbaked shells with foil and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, preheat the oven and bake as directed, possibly adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the bake time.

Notes and Tips:

Chicken Substitutes: If you prefer, you can swap the chicken for rotisserie chicken for even less prep time. Simply shred the chicken and mix it with the ricotta mixture.
Broccoli Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of broccoli, you can substitute it with other vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. However, be sure to cook the vegetables thoroughly to release excess moisture, which could make the filling too watery.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to switch up the cheeses based on what you have on hand. You can add fontina, provolone, or cheddar to the ricotta mixture for added flavor and richness. Just make sure to balance the cheeses for the perfect melt.
For a Lighter Version: You can use light ricotta cheese and half-and-half instead of heavy cream and whole milk in the Alfredo sauce. You can also substitute some of the cheese with a lower-fat option like mozzarella part-skim.
Adding Flavor to the Sauce: Feel free to infuse more flavor into the Alfredo sauce by adding fresh thyme, oregano, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. A splash of white wine while cooking the sauce can add a subtle depth of flavor as well.
Baking Dish Size: This recipe uses a standard 9×13-inch baking dish, but if you only have a smaller dish, you can reduce the number of stuffed shells, or bake in two smaller dishes.
Make it Spicy: For a spicy twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce or mix in some jalapeños or chopped green chilies with the chicken and broccoli filling.

Conclusion:

Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells is the perfect comfort food, with its creamy, cheesy filling and hearty chicken and broccoli. It’s a dish that combines the best elements of classic Italian-American flavors in a way that is both easy to prepare and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a special gathering, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is sure to be a hit.

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Tips, Variations, and Detailed Insights

Now that you have all the essential steps to make Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells, let’s dive deeper into ways you can customize, elevate, and perfect this dish. We’ll also look at common mistakes to avoid, ingredient alternatives, and ideas for side dishes and beverages that pair wonderfully with this comforting meal.

Further Customizations and Variations

1. Vegetarian Version

If you prefer to keep this recipe vegetarian, it’s easy to swap out the chicken with plant-based alternatives. Here are some ideas:

Tofu: Firm tofu can be cubed and sautéed with seasonings (such as garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika) to add texture and flavor.
Mushrooms: For a meaty, umami flavor, you can sauté a variety of mushrooms (cremini, portobello, or shiitake) and mix them with the ricotta and broccoli.
Lentils: Cooked lentils can also provide a hearty, protein-rich substitute for the chicken, and they will absorb the flavors of the sauce and seasonings beautifully.

These alternatives keep the filling rich, satisfying, and nutrient-packed without losing the essence of the original dish.

2. Add a Different Vegetable

Although broccoli is the traditional choice in this recipe, other vegetables can offer a unique twist. Here are a few:

Spinach: Fresh spinach can be sautéed with a bit of garlic and mixed into the filling. It will add a rich green color and an earthy flavor.
Zucchini: Diced or shredded zucchini adds moisture and lightness to the dish, making it a great vegetable to balance out the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
Roasted Red Peppers: For a pop of sweetness and color, add finely chopped roasted red peppers. They pair beautifully with the creamy sauce and add a subtle smoky sweetness.

You can use a single vegetable or a combination of vegetables to keep the stuffing interesting and full of flavor.

3. Herb-Infused Alfredo Sauce

The Alfredo sauce can be elevated by infusing it with fresh herbs for a more aromatic and sophisticated flavor. Here’s how to do it:

Thyme and Rosemary: Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary to the butter when melting it. Let the herbs infuse into the butter for about 2-3 minutes before adding the garlic and liquids.
Sage: Sage offers a slightly earthy and woodsy flavor that complements the richness of the cream. Add a few fresh leaves to the sauce and remove them before serving.

If you enjoy herbs in your cooking, this small addition can really enhance the sauce and create an elevated version of the classic dish.

4. Adding a Crunchy Topping

If you want to add texture and a crispy contrast to the creamy filling, consider topping your stuffed shells with a crunchy garnish:

Breadcrumb Topping: Combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, garlic powder, and a bit of Parmesan. Sprinkle it on top of the shells before the final baking phase to create a crunchy golden crust.
Toasted Almonds: For a nutty twist, sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking. The almonds will toast in the oven, adding both flavor and texture.
Parmesan Crisps: Grated Parmesan cheese can be sprinkled on top, then baked until crispy and golden. This will add an extra layer of cheesy goodness.

These toppings not only enhance the flavor but also provide a wonderful contrast to the rich, creamy texture of the stuffed shells.

5. Spicy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a spicy element to the filling and sauce can take the dish to the next level:

Cayenne Pepper or Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the Alfredo sauce or the ricotta mixture for a gentle heat.
Jalapeños: For a more noticeable kick, finely chop jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat) and sauté them with the garlic. You can also add them to the ricotta mixture.
Chipotle: If you like smoky heat, incorporate some finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce into the filling or sauce.

A little spice can balance out the creaminess and add an exciting twist to this dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While making Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells is relatively straightforward, there are a few common mistakes that could affect the final outcome. Avoid these to ensure your dish is perfect every time:

1. Overcooking the Pasta Shells

While cooking your pasta shells, it’s tempting to follow the package instructions exactly, but undercooking them by a couple of minutes is the key. Overcooked shells will become mushy once baked, especially when stuffed with a rich filling and sauce. Aim for al dente shells (firm to the bite) so they maintain their structure during the baking process.

2. Using Too Much Sauce

It’s important to balance the pasta and filling with the right amount of Alfredo sauce. Too much sauce can cause the shells to become soggy, while too little will leave them dry. Use enough sauce to coat the shells evenly, but not so much that the sauce pools at the bottom of the dish.

3. Not Letting the Chicken Rest

After cooking the chicken, allow it to rest for a few minutes before chopping or shredding. This helps retain the chicken’s juices, preventing it from becoming dry or stringy when mixed into the filling. Resting also allows the meat to firm up a little, making it easier to shred.

4. Underseasoning the Filling

The ricotta mixture should be well-seasoned, as it serves as the base flavor for the entire dish. Don’t skip the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and other spices. Taste the filling before stuffing the shells, and adjust the seasoning as needed.

5. Not Letting the Dish Rest After Baking

Allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This step helps the sauce set and prevents it from being too runny. It also ensures that the flavors have time to meld together.

Ideas for Side Dishes to Pair with Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Given the richness of the Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells, it’s a good idea to pair the dish with something lighter and fresher to balance out the heaviness. Here are a few ideas:

1. Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

A fresh green salad is a great way to add a crisp, refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. Try a simple mix of arugula, spinach, and mixed greens tossed with a zesty lemon vinaigrette (lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and honey). Add some shaved Parmesan or crumbled feta for a salty bite.

2. Garlic Bread or Crusty Italian Bread

What better to go with stuffed pasta than a warm loaf of garlic bread or crusty Italian bread? The bread will soak up the extra Alfredo sauce and provide a crunchy texture that complements the creamy filling. You can also try cheesy garlic bread for a more indulgent option.

3. Roasted Vegetables

A side of roasted vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, or even Brussels sprouts adds a bit of charred flavor and lightens up the richness of the stuffed shells. Toss the veggies with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

4. Sautéed Spinach or Kale

For a healthier and nutrient-packed side, try sautéing spinach or kale with garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes. The slight bitterness of the greens will balance the creaminess of the shells.

Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells are an incredibly versatile, hearty, and comforting dish. Whether you stick with the classic ingredients or get creative with flavor variations, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this delicious, cheesy, and creamy meal. The ability to customize the filling, sauce, and toppings means that this dish can be adjusted to suit any taste or dietary preference. It’s also perfect for meal prep and leftovers, ensuring that you can enjoy this comfort food throughout the week.

Yield: 8