Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Name: Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 20 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

Published: March 29, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The ease of preparation means you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying dinner with loved ones
The flavor profile combines garlic, butter, and creamy cheese for an irresistible taste
Visually appealing with its golden-brown top and rich sauce, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the stomach
Versatile enough to adapt for different fillings or sauces based on what you have on hand

I remember the first time I made these stuffed shells; my family couldn’t stop raving about them. They even went back for seconds—and thirds—leaving me with an empty dish and a heart full of joy.

Essential Ingredients

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

Large Pasta Shells: Grab about 20-24 shells; they should be sturdy enough to hold the filling without bursting.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts for optimal filling; it’s easy to shred cooked chicken. easy chicken fajitas recipe.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves; they pack a punch that enhances the overall flavor.
Butter: Unsalted is best; it allows you to control the saltiness in your dish.
Heavy Cream: This will create a luxuriously creamy sauce; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated gives better flavor than pre-shredded varieties; it melts beautifully into the sauce.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs adds depth; feel free to adjust based on your preferences.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every component of this dish.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients; this makes cooking smoother and keeps chaos at bay.

Cook the Pasta Shells: Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté The Chicken and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add minced garlic until fragrant. Then add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper until cooked through.

Create The Alfredo Sauce: Lower heat and pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously. Add grated Parmesan cheese gradually until melted and smooth.

Prepare The Filling: Mix shredded chicken with half of the Alfredo sauce. Add Italian seasoning for extra flavor; blend well so every shell gets deliciousness.

Stuff The Pasta Shells: Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each shell generously with the chicken mixture. Place them in a greased baking dish side by side.

Bake Until Golden: Pour remaining Alfredo sauce over the stuffed shells, then sprinkle additional Parmesan on top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Enjoying garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells will surely become one of your favorite traditions! Each bite promises creamy perfection mixed with savory chicken goodness wrapped up in delightful pasta—what’s not to love? For more inspiration, check out this chicken tenders with garlic parmesan recipe.

You Must Know

Garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells are not just a meal; they are an experience
The creamy goodness combined with the aromatic garlic and tender chicken creates a symphony of flavors
Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, these shells are unforgettable

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling your pasta shells while you sauté the chicken in garlic butter. This multitasking keeps everything warm and ensures your sauce comes together seamlessly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to substitute spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies, or use different cheeses for a unique twist. Each addition enhances flavor without overshadowing the main ingredients.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through to maintain creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use freshly minced garlic for maximum flavor impact; it makes all the difference in this dish
Boil pasta shells just until al dente to prevent them from breaking during filling
Finally, let the sauce simmer gently to blend flavors perfectly without burning

Cooking this dish reminds me of my family’s gatherings, where laughter mingled with the aroma of garlic wafting from the kitchen. It became our go-to comfort food.

FAQ

How do I prevent my stuffed shells from being too dry?

Ensure your sauce is generously applied both inside and over your stuffed shells before baking.

Can I make garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare them a day in advance, then bake when ready to serve.

What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?

grilled chicken recipe.

Try cooked shrimp or sautéed vegetables if you prefer a seafood or vegetarian twist. vegetable quiche for brunch.

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📖 Recipe Card