Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Chicken broccoli Alfredo stuffed shells are a comforting and satisfying meal that combines tender pasta shells with creamy Alfredo sauce, juicy chicken, and bright green broccoli florets — all baked to bubbly perfection. This dish is ideal for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or any night you crave a rich, hearty dinner with layers of flavor and texture.

What makes this recipe so irresistible is how well the components work together: the large pasta shells cradle a creamy, cheesy filling, while the Alfredo sauce ties everything together with its velvety richness. Chicken provides protein and substance, and broccoli adds a fresh, nutritious contrast to the overall creaminess.

Below you’ll find a complete ingredient list, clear step-by-step instructions, plus tips for customizing the dish to suit your tastes.

Ingredients :

For the Filling

• 20–24 jumbo pasta shells – Large shells that are perfect for stuffing.
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced – Rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken works well.
• 1 ½ cups broccoli florets, chopped small – Adds color, nutrients, and texture.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese – Adds creamy body to the stuffing.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully and adds stretch.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds sharp, savory flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances savory richness.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Basic seasoning.

For the Alfredo Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter – The base for the sauce’s richness.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce.
• 2 ½ cups milk – Provides creamy body; whole milk yields the richest result.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds classic Alfredo flavor.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential balance.

Optional Toppings

• Additional shredded mozzarella or Parmesan
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Crushed red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Directions :

1. Cook the Pasta Shells

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until they are just tender, about 8–10 minutes.
3. Drain the shells and rinse with cool water to stop them from sticking.

Set the cooked shells aside while you prepare the filling and sauce.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and minced garlic.
2. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Stir everything together until well blended.

This mixture will be creamy yet structured enough to spoon into each shell.

3. Make the Alfredo Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
3. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
4. Once it reaches a silky, slightly thick consistency, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Remove from heat once the sauce is smooth and creamy.

If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash more milk until you reach your desired texture.

4. Stuff the Shells

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread about ½ cup of the Alfredo sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Take one cooked pasta shell at a time and fill it generously with the chicken-broccoli-cheese mixture.
4. Arrange the filled shells in the prepared baking dish.

5. Add Sauce and Bake

1. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the top of the stuffed shells.
2. Sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella and/or Parmesan over the sauce if desired.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.

6. Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like.

Serve warm and enjoy a rich, comforting meal that brings together creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli.

Helpful Tips and Variations

• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to fold in cooked mushrooms, spinach, or roasted peppers to boost nutrition and flavor.
• Use Cream Cheese: For an even richer filling, add a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese to the chicken mixture.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the Alfredo sauce for subtle warmth, or a dash of cayenne for a gentle kick.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the entire casserole a day before and refrigerate it, then bake just before serving for easy meal-prep.

Conclusion :

Chicken broccoli Alfredo stuffed shells combine creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli inside perfectly shaped pasta shells — making this dish both satisfying and delicious. With simple steps and everyday ingredients, you can prepare a meal that feels indulgent yet approachable, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

The blend of creamy cheese filling with rich Alfredo sauce elevates traditional pasta into a dish that feels comforting and luxurious. The combination of textures — soft pasta, creamy cheese, and tender broccoli — keeps each bite interesting and flavorful. Best of all, this recipe is versatile, letting you customize it with additional proteins or vegetables based on personal preference.

Whether you’re serving it for a cozy night at home or bringing it to a gathering, chicken broccoli Alfredo stuffed shells are sure to be a crowd-pleasing favorite. Enjoy the satisfying harmony of flavors and creamy comfort in every forkful.