Hey there, pasta lovers! If you’re looking for a comforting, indulgent meal that’s sure to impress, then look no further than Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells. This delicious dish combines tender stuffed pasta shells filled with creamy garlic butter chicken and topped with a luscious Alfredo sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a special occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These stuffed shells are a delightful combination of rich flavors and satisfying textures. The creamy stuffing makes each bite feel indulgent, while the garlic butter adds a wonderful depth that elevates the entire dish. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that doesn’t require advanced cooking skills, making it accessible to anyone, from novice cooks to seasoned chefs!
Another great aspect of this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the filling with your favorite ingredients or adjust the level of creaminess to suit your tastes. It’s a fantastic way to get creative in the kitchen while preparing a meal that your family will adore.
The Nutritional Benefits of Garlicky Goodness
Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is important for muscle maintenance and overall health. Incorporating garlic not only enhances the flavor but also offers numerous health benefits, including potential immune system support and heart health benefits.
The creamy Alfredo sauce adds a rich texture but can be adjusted to be lighter if desired by using low-fat dairy options. Pairing this dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables can provide additional nutrients, making it a well-rounded meal.
Essential Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 12-16 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions for Making Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a little olive oil.
- Begin by boiling the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Cook until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly. This will make handling them easier when stuffing.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Make sure to stir continuously to prevent burning.
- Add the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and allow the chicken to warm through for about 5 minutes. If you have other spices you love, feel free to add them for a custom flavor!
- Once the chicken is heated, remove it from the heat and transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl. Add the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined; this will create the creamy filling for your stuffed shells.
- Spread about half of the Alfredo sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will keep the shells from sticking and add extra moisture.
- Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken mixture, placing them seam-side up in the baking dish. Keep them close together but not overcrowded—there should be enough room for heat to circulate!
- Once all the shells are stuffed and in the dish, pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the top. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the sauce.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm!
Pro Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells
- Take care not to overcook the pasta shells during boiling. Remember, they will continue to cook in the oven, so al dente is key to avoiding mushiness!
- If you want to add more vegetables, consider mixing in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even chopped bell peppers to the filling for added flavor and nutrition.
- For a lighter option, use reduced-fat cream cheese instead of ricotta, and a lighter Alfredo sauce to keep the dish rich without all the calories.
- We recommend simmering your homemade Alfredo sauce to thicken before pouring it over the stuffed shells. You could also use store-bought sauces for convenience!
- To save time, consider using a rotisserie chicken; it’s a time-saver and adds great flavor!
Serving Suggestions
Your Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion! You can serve them alongside a simple side salad with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the shells.
Another great addition to the meal is garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks to soak up all that delicious Alfredo sauce. You might also consider serving a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade to complement the creamy flavors.
Making Ahead and Storage Tips
This stuffed shells recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator (covered) for up to 2 days before baking. This is perfect for those busy nights when you want to come home to a ready-to-bake meal.
If you want to freeze the stuffed shells, assemble everything in an airtight container or cover it tightly with foil. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake them as directed.
Join the Culinary Adventure!
Now that you know how to make this delightful Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, are you excited to try it? I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Please share your experiences, any fun twists you added, and how your family enjoyed this comforting dish.
If you’re looking for more quick and delicious recipes just like this one, be sure to follow me on Pinterest for a continuous stream of culinary inspiration. Together, let’s celebrate the joy of cooking and share delightful meals!
Final Thoughts
Cooking is all about bringing people together and creating lasting memories. This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells recipe truly captures the spirit of comfort food—easy to make and incredibly satisfying!
So gather your ingredients, turn up your favorite playlist, and let’s create something wonderful today. Enjoy the creamy and cheesy deliciousness and remember that great food tastes even better when shared with loved ones!
Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy and indulgent dish that will leave everyone coming back for more. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
