Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

There’s something magical about garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells that makes your taste buds dance in joy. Picture this: large, plump pasta shells brimming with creamy alfredo sauce and tender chicken, all elevated by the rich aroma of garlic butter wafting through your kitchen. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners.

I remember the first time I made this recipe my friends practically swooned as they took their first bites. The laughter and compliments flowed freely, making it a memorable evening filled with good food and great company. Garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells truly brings people together, creating delicious moments worth savoring.

I still chuckle when I think about how my niece declared it her new favorite dinner after just one bite.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Large Pasta Shells: Choose sturdy shells that hold up well to stuffing they should be big enough to carry all that delicious filling.
• Boneless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts are ideal you can adjust based on how many hungry bellies you’re feeding.
• Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm garlic cloves they’ll bring out that vibrant flavor that pairs so wonderfully with butter.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the seasoning in your dish.
• Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to the filling make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Heavy Cream: For that luscious alfredo sauce, heavy cream gives the best texture and richness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best its savory notes elevate the overall flavor profile.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs adds depth feel free to use your favorites like basil or oregano.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning adjust according to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Start with boiling the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add large pasta shells carefully and cook them until al dente according to package instructions.

Prepare the chicken: While the pasta cooks, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook them in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown (about 6-7 minutes per side) and cooked through.

Make garlic butter: In the same skillet, melt butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned about 1 minute will do it.

Mix filling ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken (chopped), softened cream cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is thoroughly mixed.

Stuff the shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully fill each cooked shell with the chicken mixture using a spoon or piping bag for ease.

Prepare sauce: In another saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream and remaining Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until melted and smooth season with salt and pepper as desired.

Assemble the dish: Spread half of the creamy sauce evenly across a baking dish. Arrange stuffed shells on top in a single layer before drizzling remaining sauce over them generously.

Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Serve hot: Let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired enjoy every cheesy bite of these garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells.

This recipe will surely become a staple in your household just like it has in mine. Each bite is an explosion of flavors that leaves everyone asking for seconds (or thirds). So go ahead, gather your ingredients, roll up those sleeves, and let’s create some culinary magic together.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the chicken in garlic butter until golden brown. While it cooks, boil the pasta shells, then prepare your alfredo sauce for a seamless experience.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add fresh spinach to your filling. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or parmesan for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to keep the sauce creamy.

Sharing a meal filled with garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells brought my family together on a chilly evening, creating laughter and warmth that lingered long after dinner.

FAQ

What is the best type of pasta for stuffed shells?

Large conchiglie or jumbo pasta shells work best for stuffing with savory fillings.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare everything and assemble the dish, then refrigerate it before baking.

How do I prevent stuffed shells from breaking?

Cook them just until al dente overcooked shells are more likely to break during stuffing.