There’s something utterly magical about garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells. Picture this: creamy, cheesy goodness nestled in large pasta shells, each one bursting with flavor. The moment you take a bite, the rich garlic butter sauce dances across your taste buds like a waltz at a fancy ballroom. It’s the kind of comfort food that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening.
I remember the first time I made this dish for my family it was a chaotic weeknight, and I needed something quick yet delicious. As the tantalizing aroma filled our kitchen, my kids emerged from their rooms, lured by the scent like moths to a flame. They devoured every last shell and begged for seconds That’s when I knew this recipe had earned its place in our weekly rotation.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells are easy to prepare and come together in no time
- The creamy sauce is packed with flavor, making each bite an explosion of deliciousness
- They are visually stunning and perfect for impressing dinner guests or enjoying a cozy night in
- These stuffed shells are versatile enough to adapt to any dietary preference or ingredient you have on hand
When I first whipped up these delightful stuffed shells, my friends couldn’t stop talking about them who knew something so simple could be so impressive?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Large Pasta Shells: Opt for sturdy shells that can hold all that cheesy goodness without falling apart.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts should do adjust based on your hungry crowd.
- Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves for maximum flavor don’t skimp here
- Butter: Unsalted butter works best it allows you to control the saltiness in your sauce.
- Heavy Cream: This is where the creamy magic happens don’t substitute light cream if you want true indulgence.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese gives the best melt and flavor it’s worth the extra effort.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings warmth and earthiness to your dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors use them generously but taste as you go
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Shells: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil water in a large pot and add salt generously. Cook the pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
Add Garlic Bliss: Toss minced garlic into the skillet with the chicken during the last minute of cooking. Stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds your kitchen will smell heavenly
Create the Alfredo Sauce: Reduce heat to low and pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese gradually until melted and smooth. Season with Italian seasoning.
Stuff those Shells: Take each shell and fill it generously with chicken alfredo mixture using a spoon or piping bag if you’re feeling fancy Place them snugly into a greased baking dish.
Bake to Perfection: Pour any remaining alfredo sauce over the stuffed shells in the dish. Sprinkle additional cheese on top if you’re feeling indulgent Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.
Now you’ve created magic right at home Each bite of garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells is guaranteed to make everyone at your table feel like they’re dining at a five-star restaurant all without breaking a sweat in your kitchen Enjoy this scrumptious meal surrounded by laughter and good company after all, great food tastes even better when shared
You Must Know
- This garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells recipe combines rich flavors and creamy textures, creating an unforgettable meal
- Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, it’s a delight that keeps everyone coming back for more
- Plus, you can prepare it ahead of time
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken, allowing those savory flavors to develop while you boil the pasta. Then, prepare your sauce as the shells cool, ensuring everything is ready at the same time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add spinach to the filling for extra nutrients. You can also play with different cheeses in your alfredo sauce for unique flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure to salt your pasta water generously this enhances overall flavor
- Avoid overcooking your shells they should be slightly firm since they will continue cooking in the oven
- Don’t skimp on garlic it’s the star of this dish
Cooking garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells always reminds me of family gatherings when my aunt would prepare them. The smiles and compliments made all the effort worthwhile
FAQ
What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
You can use shrimp, tofu, or even veggies like mushrooms for a delicious alternative.
Can I make garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells ahead of time?
Absolutely Assemble them and store in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
How do I prevent my stuffed shells from breaking?
Be gentle when handling them and avoid overcooking during boiling this keeps them intact.
Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 (12 stuffed shells) 1x
Description
Garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells are a deliciously comforting dish that will turn any weeknight into a special occasion. Imagine large pasta shells filled with tender chicken, smothered in a rich garlic butter alfredo sauce, and topped with melted cheese. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also impressively satisfying, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, this meal will quickly become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta shells until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper for about 7-10 minutes until golden brown.
- Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking and stir until fragrant.
- Lower heat, pour in heavy cream, and gradually mix in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with Italian seasoning.
- Stuff each shell with the chicken alfredo mixture and arrange them in a greased baking dish.
- Pour any remaining sauce over the shells, sprinkle extra cheese on top if desired, cover with foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (200g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
