Introduction

Hey there! Today, I want to share with you a mouthwatering recipe that will leave you craving for more – Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells. This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of garlic, butter, tender chicken, and creamy Alfredo sauce, all stuffed into perfectly cooked pasta shells. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This

I make this recipe whenever I want to impress my guests or simply treat myself to a delicious homemade meal. The combination of garlic and butter gives the dish a heavenly aroma that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Plus, the creamy Alfredo sauce adds a velvety texture that perfectly complements the tender chicken. My family goes crazy for this because it’s comfort food at its finest – warm, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying!

Ingredients

To create this flavor-packed dish, you will need the following ingredients:

– 20 jumbo pasta shells

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 3 cloves of garlic, minced

– 4 tablespoons butter

– 2 cups Alfredo sauce

– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

– 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Start by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook them al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven later. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute or until fragrant.

3. Next, add the shredded chicken to the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the chicken is heated through.

4. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the Alfredo sauce. Mix well to combine all the flavors.

5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

6. Take each cooked pasta shell and stuff it generously with the chicken Alfredo mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish.

7. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the stuffed shells.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

10. Serve the Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells warm and enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Notes

I’ve experimented with this recipe many times, and here are a few things I’ve discovered:

– If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking it yourself. It saves a lot of time and still tastes delicious!

– Feel free to add some chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the chicken Alfredo mixture for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Variations

I love exploring different flavors in this recipe, and here are a couple of variations I’ve tried:

– Instead of chicken, you can use cooked ground beef or Italian sausage for a meatier version of the dish. Just make sure to season the meat with some Italian herbs for that extra kick.

– For a vegetarian twist, substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. The roasted veggies add a delightful sweetness to the dish.

Equipment

No special equipment is needed for this recipe. However, if you don’t have a large skillet, you can use a regular frying pan instead.

Storage Information

Though this dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, it never lasts more than a day in my house! The flavors are just too irresistible.

Serving Suggestions

I personally love serving these Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells with a side salad and some garlic bread. The freshness of the salad balances out the richness of the dish, and who can say no to warm, garlic-infused bread?

Pro Tips

Through trial and error, I’ve learned a couple of valuable lessons:

– Don’t overcook the pasta shells during the initial boiling stage. Remember, they will continue to cook in the oven, so al dente is the way to go.

– If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add an extra clove or two to intensify the flavor. Just make sure your loved ones are garlic enthusiasts too!

FAQ

Q: Can I freeze the Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells?

A: Absolutely! Once baked, let the dish cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A: Of course! While mozzarella and Parmesan work beautifully in this recipe, you can get creative and use your favorite cheese or a combination of cheeses. Gouda, cheddar, or even goat cheese would be delicious alternatives.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Definitely! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just make sure to increase the baking time slightly, as the dish will be cold from the refrigerator.

Q: Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

A: Absolutely! While homemade Alfredo sauce is lovely, there’s no shame in using a good-quality store-bought version. It saves time and still delivers a creamy, flavorful result.

So there you have it – a delightful recipe for Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells. Give it a try, and I guarantee you won’t be disappointed. Enjoy this comforting dish with your loved ones and savor every bite!