Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Quick Benefits

Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and bursting with cheesy goodness. This dish is perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or impressing guests with its indulgent flavors. The combination of Alfredo sauce, shredded chicken, and a cheesy filling makes every bite irresistibly satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and bake when needed, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Essential Ingredients

To make this luxurious dish, you’ll need:

• Jumbo Shells: 21 large pasta shells
• Chicken & Cheese Filling:
  • 1 1⁄2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 1⁄2 cups cottage cheese
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 1⁄2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• Sauce & Toppings:
  • 1 (15-oz) jar Alfredo sauce
  • Remaining 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Cook the Pasta: Boil the jumbo shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Filling:
   • In a large bowl, mix together shredded chicken, cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and dried parsley.
   • Stir until fully combined.
4. Stuff the Shells:
   • Fill each cooked shell with the cheese mixture and arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
5. Add Sauce & Cheese:
   • Evenly pour Alfredo sauce over the stuffed shells.
   • Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake:
   • Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Cool & Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let sit for a few minutes before serving.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Health Benefits

• Protein-Packed: Chicken and cheese provide a great source of protein for muscle growth and energy.
• Calcium-Rich: Cottage cheese, cream cheese, and mozzarella support bone health.
• Balanced Meal: Combining protein, carbs, and healthy fats makes this a satisfying dish.
• Customizable: You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to boost the nutrient content.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a Fresh Salad: A crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad balances the richness of the dish.
• Add Garlic Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the extra Alfredo sauce.
• Complement with Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts make a great side dish.
• Garnish for Extra Flavor: Top with fresh basil, parsley, or red pepper flakes for added taste.

Creative Variations

• Add a Meaty Twist: Substitute chicken with Italian sausage or bacon bits for extra flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Veggie-Packed Version: Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to add more vegetables.
• Homemade Alfredo Sauce: Swap store-bought Alfredo for a homemade version using butter, cream, garlic, and Parmesan.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Assemble the stuffed shells without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating:
  • Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes (if refrigerated) or 40 minutes (if frozen).
  • Microwave: Heat individual portions for 2-3 minutes, adding a splash of water to prevent drying.

Pro Tips

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: Saves time and adds extra flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Shells: Cook until just al dente, as they will soften more when baked.
• Layer the Sauce Evenly: Spreading the Alfredo sauce well ensures every bite is creamy and delicious.
• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for 5 minutes after baking to set and make serving easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?
Yes! Ricotta is a great alternative and provides a similar creamy texture.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day ahead and bake when ready.

3. What’s the best way to shred chicken?
Use a fork, hand mixer, or food processor to shred cooked chicken quickly.

4. Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce?
Absolutely! A homemade sauce with butter, cream, garlic, and Parmesan adds even more flavor.

5. How do I keep the shells from sticking together?
After cooking, toss the shells with a bit of olive oil or lay them on parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Enjoy your Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, a creamy, cheesy, and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

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