Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells – The Best Cheesy Dinner for Families

Name: Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 15 oz Alfredo sauce (for the filling); 1.5 tbsp fresh chopped parsley (1 tbsp for filling, 0.5 tbsp for garnish); 1 tbsp ranch dressing mix; 1 tsp fresh cracked black pepper; 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast (about 3 medium-sized skinless boneless breasts); 0.5 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (for filling); 1.5 cups freshly grated mozzarella cheese (for filling); 0.25 cup grated parmesan cheese (for filling); 8 oz jumbo pasta shells (cooked al dente and drained); 22 oz Alfredo sauce (for topping); 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese (for topping); 0.25 cup grated parmesan cheese (for topping); 0.25 cup crumbled bacon (for topping)

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When it comes to comfort food that hits all the right notes—creamy, cheesy, hearty, and satisfying—Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells is hard to beat. This family-favorite recipe blends juicy chicken, rich alfredo sauce, and melty cheese inside tender jumbo pasta shells, then bakes them to golden perfection. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish checks every box.

You’ll learn how to make this crave-worthy recipe from scratch, explore expert tips and time-saving hacks, and get ideas for what to serve alongside. Want more delicious pasta dishes like this one? Check out our Easy Stuffed Shells for another creamy classic twist.

Why You’ll Love These Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

A family-favorite recipe made easy

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are surprisingly simple to prepare but taste like something from a fancy restaurant. The magic lies in the combination of seasoned chicken, savory bacon, and two types of cheese—all wrapped up in jumbo pasta and smothered in creamy alfredo sauce. It’s the kind of dinner that earns applause at the table and repeat requests from even the pickiest eaters.

Perfect blend of cheesy, creamy, and savory flavors

The richness of the Alfredo sauce balances beautifully with the saltiness of crumbled bacon and the melt-in-your-mouth texture of mozzarella and parmesan. This dish layers flavor in every bite, creating a satisfying harmony of creamy, cheesy, and umami goodness that will have you going back for seconds.

Ideal for meal prep and busy weeknights

These shells can be made ahead of time, frozen, and baked straight from the fridge or freezer. It’s a brilliant solution for anyone juggling a busy schedule or looking for easy weeknight dinners. Don’t miss our Cozy Lasagna Soup for another hearty make-ahead option.

Essential Ingredients for Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Chicken: Best cuts and time-saving options

For the filling, boneless skinless chicken breast is the classic choice. Cook and shred about 3 medium-sized breasts to get the perfect texture. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works like a charm—it’s flavorful and ready to go. You’ll need around 3 cups shredded.

Alfredo Sauce: Homemade vs. store-bought

You can absolutely use a jar of store-bought Alfredo to save time, but if you want a richer, more authentic flavor, consider making your own. Combine butter, cream, parmesan, and garlic for a velvety base. For this recipe, use one jar for the filling and another to pour over the shells before baking.

Pasta Shells: Jumbo size tips and boiling tricks

Use jumbo pasta shells—they hold the filling without tearing. Cook until just al dente, so they don’t fall apart while stuffing. After boiling, immediately rinse with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.

Cheeses: Mozzarella, Parmesan, and substitutions

Freshly shredded mozzarella and parmesan melt better and provide a creamier finish than pre-shredded varieties. If needed, substitute with provolone, asiago, or a mozzarella-parmesan blend. Total cheese used? At least 3 cups—because more cheese equals more comfort.

Bonus Flavors: Bacon, herbs, and veggie add-ins

Adding cooked and crumbled bacon enhances the flavor with a smoky crunch. Parsley adds freshness, and a pinch of black pepper brings subtle heat. For veggie lovers, try including chopped spinach or artichoke hearts in the filling. Looking for inspiration? Try our Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells for a green twist.

Step-by-Step Guide to Make Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Prepping the filling: Shredded chicken and creamy mix

In a large bowl, whisk together Alfredo sauce, chopped parsley, ranch seasoning, and cracked black pepper. Then stir in your shredded chicken, ½ cup of crumbled bacon, 1½ cups mozzarella, and ¼ cup grated parmesan. Mix until every spoonful is rich and creamy.

Filling and arranging the shells

Use a spoon or a Ziploc bag with the corner snipped off to neatly fill each shell with about 2 tablespoons of filling. Line them snugly in a greased 9×13 baking dish. A full tray usually holds 24–27 shells. Don’t overcrowd—you want each one to soak up that sauce.

Baking to perfection: Covered, uncovered, and broiled

Pour a second jar of Alfredo sauce evenly over the filled shells. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella, parmesan, and bacon on top. Cover with foil and bake at 425°F for 20 minutes. Remove foil, broil for 3–4 minutes, and pull it once the cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Discover great ideas like our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken for more weeknight hits with bold, cheesy flavors.

Smart Shortcuts and Pro Cooking Tips

How to stuff shells quickly and cleanly

Using a pastry bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped makes stuffing less messy and much faster. Lay out your shells in rows on a baking sheet before filling to streamline the process. Always undercook the pasta slightly so it holds its shape better during stuffing and baking.

How to prevent burning or drying out

Always cover the dish with foil before the initial bake to keep moisture locked in. Only broil during the final few minutes—stay close, as cheese can brown fast. If you’re using pre-shredded cheese, keep in mind it burns quicker due to added starches.

Make-ahead and freezer-friendly tips

Assemble everything in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. For freezing, layer the shells in a foil-lined dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, add 10–15 minutes to the baking time. Looking for more make-ahead dinner ideas? Check out our Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole for a hearty hands-off option.

What to Serve with Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Best sides: Salads, garlic bread, and more

Pair these rich shells with something light and fresh like a crisp Caesar salad or arugula with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic knots, breadsticks, or a crusty baguette help scoop up every bit of sauce. Don’t miss our Easy French Toast Casserole for a brunch-style side if you’re serving leftovers mid-day.

Wine and beverage pairings

A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creaminess of the Alfredo. For non-alcoholic options, lemon iced tea or sparkling water with lime keeps the meal refreshing.

Creative leftovers: Reinventing the next-day meal

Chop leftover shells and stir them into a creamy soup or pasta bake. Or try reheating in a skillet with extra Alfredo sauce and adding cooked spinach or mushrooms for a veggie-forward lunch.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

In the fridge: How long it stays fresh

Store cooked shells in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the pasta is fully cooled before refrigerating to avoid condensation buildup.

In the freezer: Best practices and thawing

To freeze, wrap your dish in plastic wrap and foil. Label with the date and use within 90 days. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating tips: Oven, microwave, or stovetop?

For even reheating, bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes. If microwaving, cover with a damp paper towel to keep moisture. Add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep and stuff the shells a day in advance. Refrigerate them covered until ready to bake. It’s a great time-saver for entertaining.

What other cheeses work well in this recipe?

Fontina, asiago, or gouda are excellent alternatives. You can also use a 3-cheese Italian blend for a shortcut without sacrificing taste.

Can I add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms?

Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms, chopped spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes add depth and color. Just ensure veggies are cooked and drained well to avoid excess moisture.

How do I make it less rich or lower in calories?

Swap heavy cream for milk in the Alfredo, use part-skim cheese, and skip the bacon. You’ll still enjoy the creamy comfort without the extra richness.

Conclusion: Why Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Deserve a Spot in Your Recipe Rotation

From busy weeknight dinners to indulgent weekend meals, Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells bring unbeatable comfort to the table. This cheesy, creamy, flavor-packed dish is easy to customize, perfect for making ahead, and guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you use rotisserie chicken for a quick fix or go all out with homemade sauce, the result is always delicious. Want another cheesy classic? Don’t miss our Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole to expand your dinner rotation.

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