Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are at the top of my list. The first time I prepared this dish, I could feel the excitement in the kitchen as the aroma of garlic and cheese filled the air. My family gathered around, eagerly anticipating a meal that promised creamy goodness and hearty flavors. As the first bites were taken, smiles broke out all around the table. The combination of tender pasta shells filled with a cheesy chicken mixture and smothered in a rich Alfredo sauce was a hit! Not only is this dish delicious, but it also offers a great way to use leftover chicken, making it a win-win for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Shells:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta Shells:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Stuffing:

4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the lightly beaten egg and mix everything together until fully combined.

Make the Alfredo Sauce:

6. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
7. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
8. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, then whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
9. Season the sauce with black pepper and nutmeg (if using). Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Stuff the Shells:

10. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
11. Spoon a small amount of Alfredo sauce to cover the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
12. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with about 2 tablespoons of the chicken and cheese mixture, and arrange the shells in the prepared baking dish.

Bake the Shells:

13. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
14. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
15. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the top is slightly golden.

Garnish and Serve:

16. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 550

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve

• Plating: Serve the stuffed shells hot on individual plates or a large serving platter.
• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese on top for a pop of color and flavor.
• Side Dishes: Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for easy reheating.

Additional Tips

1. Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds flavor. Just shred and use!
2. Cheese Varieties: Feel free to mix different cheeses in the stuffing or sauce, such as Gouda or fontina, for a unique twist.
3. Alfredo Sauce: If you want a lighter sauce, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
4. Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a little kick.
5. Make-Ahead: Prepare the stuffed shells in advance and refrigerate them, then just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Seafood Version: Use shrimp or crab meat instead of chicken for a luxurious twist.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the stuffing mixture for a fragrant addition.

Serving Suggestions

• Wine Pairing: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the creamy flavors of the dish.
• Salad: Serve alongside a Caesar salad or a simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette.
• Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread makes for a perfect accompaniment to soak up any extra sauce.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Assemble everything, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
• Storage: Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use different types of pasta?

• While jumbo shells are traditional, you can use any large pasta, like cannelloni or manicotti.

1. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

• You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version.

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

• Yes, replace the chicken with vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or even lentils.

1. How do I know when the shells are cooked perfectly?

• Cook them al dente according to package instructions; they will continue cooking in the oven.

1. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

• Absolutely! You can assemble the shells and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

1. What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?

• You can substitute with cottage cheese or even cream cheese for a different flavor.

1. Can I make the Alfredo sauce from scratch?

• Yes, this recipe provides a simple homemade sauce, but store-bought options work well too.

1. What can I do with leftover filling?

• Use it as a dip for breadsticks or mix it into scrambled eggs for a protein boost.

1. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

• Yes, for convenience, you can use store-bought sauce and enhance it with garlic and cheese.

1. How do I store leftovers?
   • Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a deliciously creamy and satisfying meal that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just a cozy family dinner, these stuffed shells will surely impress. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find it becoming a staple in your home, just like it has in mine! Enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite!

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