Name: Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 16 jumbo pasta shells; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 2 cups Alfredo sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 3 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ cup unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting dish to impress your guests or simply enjoy a cozy meal at home, this Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells recipe is just what you need. The creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful garlic butter come together perfectly in this dish, making it a favorite in my kitchen for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The combination of garlic butter, chicken, and Alfredo sauce creates a rich and indulgent flavor profile.
This dish is surprisingly easy to prepare, with simple steps that yield impressive results.
It’s a great option for meal prep, as you can make a batch ahead of time and simply reheat when ready to eat.

Ingredient Notes:

Jumbo pasta shells: These act as the perfect vessel for holding the delicious filling.
Cooked chicken, shredded: Adds protein and a hearty texture to the dish.
Alfredo sauce: Provides a creamy and comforting base for the stuffed shells.
Ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy and slightly tangy element to the filling.
Mozzarella cheese, shredded: Adds gooey, melty goodness to the dish.
Parmesan cheese, grated: Adds a nutty and salty flavor to the filling.
Garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a delicious garlic flavor.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth of flavor.
Parsley, chopped: Adds freshness and a pop of color.
Italian seasoning: Adds a savory and herby flavor.
Salt and pepper: Season to taste.
Olive oil: Used for cooking and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions based on jumbo pasta shells:

Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions.
In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken and cheese mixture.
In a skillet, melt the butter with the olive oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
Stir in the Alfredo sauce and bring to a simmer.
Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish and pour the Alfredo sauce over them.
Top with additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake until bubbly and golden brown.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Helpful Tips:

For a time-saving tip, use rotisserie chicken for the shredded chicken.
Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite herbs and spices.
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add more veggies like spinach or mushrooms.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Make sure to generously season the filling to ensure a flavorful end result.
Allow the stuffed shells to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells with a side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette and a glass of crisp white wine for a complete meal. For dessert, a simple fruit salad or tiramisu would be a lovely finish.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I freeze these stuffed shells?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Simply assemble them in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

While jumbo pasta shells work best for stuffing, you can also use manicotti or large pasta tubes as a substitute.

How can I make this dish lighter?

To lighten up this dish, use low-fat or part-skim cheeses and a lighter Alfredo sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just be sure to add the Alfredo sauce right before baking.

Conclusion:

This Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. With its creamy and flavorful filling, easy preparation, and impressive presentation, it’s a dish that will delight both family and guests. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!