Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy Alfredo sauce stuffed inside jumbo pasta shells. Baked to perfection, this dish is rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect meal for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of creamy sauce, hearty chicken, and nutritious broccoli creates a well-balanced dish that is both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 21 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli, chopped
- ¾ cup ricotta cheese
- ¾ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 large egg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1½ ounces Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta Shells
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook for about 9 minutes, until al dente.
- Drain and set aside on a baking sheet to cool.
2. Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, garlic, and pepper.
- Add mozzarella cheese, shredded chicken, and chopped broccoli, then mix well.
3. Stuff the Shells
- Once the pasta shells are cool enough to handle, stuff each shell evenly with the chicken and ricotta mixture.
- Place the stuffed shells into a lightly greased 9×13 casserole dish.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and garlic until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in flour and whisk constantly.
- Gradually add milk and chicken broth, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake the Dish
- Pour the Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
- Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
Health Benefits:
- High in Protein: Chicken provides lean protein for muscle health.
- Rich in Calcium: Cheese and milk contribute to strong bones.
- Balanced Meal: Broccoli adds fiber and essential vitamins.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for mushrooms or spinach.
- Extra Cheesy: Add cheddar or gouda for a richer flavor.
This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells recipe is a crowd-pleaser that delivers creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite. Would you like pairing suggestions or alternative cooking methods? 😊🍽️🔥
You can also check out more variations here.