Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells bring together rich flavors and creamy textures in a way that’s downright irresistible. Imagine a plate full of tender pasta shells, generously filled with a savory blend that dances on your taste buds. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms the soul.
Picture this: a cozy evening with family or friends, laughter filling the air as you serve up these decadent stuffed shells. Each bite bursts with garlicky goodness and creamy Alfredo sauce, making it the perfect dish for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Your taste buds will thank you!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are easy to whip up, making them ideal for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile combines rich garlic butter and creamy Alfredo for an unforgettable experience
- Their gorgeous presentation ensures they’ll be the star of your dinner table
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients!
My friends couldn’t stop raving about this dish at last month’s potluck—it was gone before I could even grab seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Jumbo Pasta Shells: These large shells are perfect for holding all that cheesy goodness inside.
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on your crowd size for maximum flavor.
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Fresh Garlic: Fresh cloves elevate the flavor; avoid pre-minced garlic if possible for best results.
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Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the overall saltiness of your dish effectively.
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Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and adds that signature Alfredo richness.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully and enhances the overall flavor.
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Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings everything together perfectly—don’t skip this!
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning throughout the cooking process; don’t hold back!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Jumbo Shells: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt and jumbo pasta shells, cooking until al dente, roughly 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add diced chicken breast seasoned with salt and pepper until cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in heavy cream to the skillet with chicken. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth—this is where magic happens!
Mix It All Together: In a bowl, combine cooked chicken mixture with Italian seasoning. Gently fold in more grated cheese if you’re feeling indulgent—who wouldn’t want extra cheese?
Stuff Those Shells!: Spoon generous amounts of the chicken mixture into each jumbo shell. Place them snugly in a greased baking dish; they’re like little pillows waiting for their blanket of sauce.
Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover stuffed shells with extra Alfredo sauce or more cream if desired; bake covered for about 25 minutes until bubbly.
Now sit back while your kitchen fills with mouthwatering aromas that will have everyone asking what’s cooking!
Enjoy these delightful Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells warm from the oven, perhaps topped with fresh parsley or more Parmesan for that extra flair!
You Must Know
- Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are not just a meal; they’re a feast for the senses
- The aroma of garlic mingling with creamy sauce fills your kitchen, while the texture of stuffed pasta shells delights every bite
- Don’t forget, presentation is key—these shells look stunning on any plate!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear your chicken first to lock in flavors, then cook the pasta while preparing the rich Alfredo sauce. This sequence ensures everything comes together seamlessly, preventing overcooked pasta or dry chicken.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or add veggies like spinach for extra nutrients. A sprinkle of fresh herbs elevates the dish and adds a burst of color!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to maintain that creamy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked stuffed shells, ensure they are al dente before filling them
- Use fresh ingredients for vibrant flavors and don’t skimp on cheese; it makes all the difference!
- When reheating, add a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy and luscious
Sharing this dish with friends brought laughter and compliments, reminding me why I love cooking—it’s about connection and joy at the dinner table.
FAQ
What type of pasta works best for stuffed shells?
Large pasta shells are ideal for stuffing; they hold plenty of filling without falling apart.
Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge.
What can I use instead of chicken in this recipe?
Shrimp, ground turkey, or even mushrooms can make delicious alternatives in this stuffed shell dish.
Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 (12 stuffed shells) 1x
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a delightful fusion of flavors and creamy textures that will elevate your dinner experience. These jumbo pasta shells, generously filled with tender chicken, rich garlic butter, and velvety Alfredo sauce, create an irresistible dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights. Each bite is a burst of garlicky goodness and cheesy indulgence that will leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), diced
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the jumbo shells in boiling salted water for 9-11 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper; cook for about 7-10 minutes until fully cooked.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth to create the creamy sauce.
- Combine the chicken mixture with Italian seasoning. Spoon generously into each pasta shell and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover stuffed shells with extra Alfredo sauce if desired; bake for about 25 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (200g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
