Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

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If you’re looking for a comforting and indulgent dinner that satisfies every bite, Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells is the perfect recipe. This dish combines tender pasta shells filled with juicy chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and a luscious garlic butter blend. Each shell is a bundle of cheesy, garlicky goodness that will impress your family or guests.

This recipe is an ideal mix of comfort food and gourmet dining. The balance of creamy sauce, savory chicken, and melted cheese creates a harmony of flavors. It’s also a great way to elevate classic pasta dishes into a crowd-pleasing centerpiece.

Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, these stuffed shells are simple to prepare and bring a restaurant-quality experience to your table. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or food lovers, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. So, roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and dive into the art of crafting these irresistible stuffed shells!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Alfredo Sauce:

4 tablespoons butter
2 cups heavy cream
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
½ teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Ingredients:

18-20 jumbo pasta shells, cooked
½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (for topping)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta shells until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add cooked chicken, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let cool.
Combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and the seasoned chicken mixture in a bowl to create the filling.
Prepare the Alfredo sauce by melting butter in a saucepan. Add garlic and cook until aromatic. Stir in cream, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes. Gradually add Parmesan until melted.
Spread 1 cup of Alfredo sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
Stuff each shell with the chicken mixture and place in the dish. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the shells.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Bake for 25 minutes or until bubbly.
Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

How to Prepare

Start by boiling the jumbo pasta shells in salted water until al dente. This ensures they remain firm when baked. Prepare the chicken filling by mixing sautéed garlic, shredded chicken, and cheeses. The filling should be creamy and well-seasoned for the best flavor.

For the Alfredo sauce, whisk butter, garlic, and cream together until smooth. Add Parmesan to create a rich, cheesy base. Once the sauce and filling are ready, stuff the cooked shells generously and place them in the baking dish. Baking at 375°F allows the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes! Store-bought Alfredo can save time, but homemade sauce gives a fresher, creamier taste.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the stuffed shells, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q3: Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells?
Yes, freeze them before baking. Wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months. Thaw and bake as directed.

Q4: What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese or cream cheese works as a great alternative.

Q5: Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Sure! Spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli can add texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells is a dish that brings comfort and sophistication to your table. The creamy Alfredo sauce, paired with tender chicken and cheesy filling, makes every bite irresistible. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even date nights.

This dish’s beauty lies in its simplicity and rich flavors. The process is straightforward, yet the outcome feels gourmet. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a hit with anyone who loves hearty, cheesy meals. So grab your ingredients and get ready to create a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!