Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

If you love creamy, cheesy pasta dishes, then these Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells will quickly become a favorite in your household. This dish combines tender pasta shells stuffed with a rich, garlicky chicken and ricotta filling, all smothered in a velvety Alfredo sauce. The result is a decadent, comforting meal that feels gourmet yet is simple enough to make at home.

Stuffed shells are a fantastic twist on traditional pasta dishes, offering individual portions packed with flavor. The addition of garlic butter takes the filling to another level, infusing the chicken with deep, savory notes. Meanwhile, the homemade Alfredo sauce brings a creamy, cheesy element that makes this dish irresistible. Whether you’re preparing this for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Indulgent Flavor – The combination of garlic butter chicken, ricotta cheese, and creamy Alfredo sauce creates a deeply satisfying dish.
• Easy Yet Impressive – While this dish looks and tastes gourmet, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare with step-by-step guidance.
• Perfect for Gatherings – Stuffed shells are a great make-ahead meal, making them ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or meal prepping.
• Customizable – Swap out ingredients to suit different dietary needs, such as using spinach instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
• Kid-Friendly – Even picky eaters love the cheesy, creamy goodness of this dish!

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 3-4 stuffed shells per person

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 620
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Chicken Filling:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie or baked)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)

For the Shells and Assembly:

• 18 jumbo pasta shells, cooked and drained
• 1½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (for topping)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for topping)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken Filling

• In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in the shredded chicken, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, ensuring the chicken absorbs the flavors. Remove from heat.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and parsley. Mix until smooth.
• Add the garlic butter chicken mixture to the ricotta blend and stir until evenly combined.

2. Make the Alfredo Sauce

• In a saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
• Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat and let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
• Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Assemble the Stuffed Shells

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil.
• Spread ½ cup of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking.
• Fill each cooked jumbo shell with about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture and arrange them in the baking dish.
• Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are evenly covered.
• Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.

4. Bake the Stuffed Shells

• Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
• Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Ingredient Background

• Garlic Butter Chicken: The garlic-infused butter enhances the flavor of the chicken, making it juicy and aromatic.
• Ricotta Cheese: Adds a creamy, mild texture that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
• Parmesan Cheese: Essential for both the Alfredo sauce and filling, adding a salty, nutty depth of flavor.
• Nutmeg in Alfredo Sauce: A traditional touch that subtly enhances the creaminess.

Technique Tips

• Avoid Overcooking the Shells: Cook them al dente to prevent breakage when stuffing.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience: It’s already seasoned and tender, making the filling process even easier.
• Whisk Alfredo Sauce Constantly: This prevents clumping and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
• Let the Dish Rest Before Serving: This helps the flavors meld together for a more cohesive bite.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Individual Portions: Serve in ramekins for personal servings.
• Baked in a Skillet: Instead of a baking dish, use a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, restaurant-style presentation.
• Rolled Manicotti Style: Use manicotti pasta instead of shells for a different look.

Additional Tips for Success

• Double the Recipe for Meal Prep: Stuffed shells freeze beautifully for future meals.
• Make the Alfredo Sauce Ahead: It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Use a Piping Bag for Filling: Makes stuffing the shells cleaner and faster.

Recipe Variations

• Spinach & Ricotta: Replace the chicken with sautéed spinach for a vegetarian option.
• Spicy Alfredo: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Use zucchini slices instead of pasta shells.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

• Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can fully assemble the stuffed shells, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you need a stress-free meal for guests. When ready to bake, simply remove the dish from the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, and bake as directed. If baking straight from the fridge, you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

2. Can I freeze this dish?

• Absolutely! Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells freeze exceptionally well, both before and after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the dish as instructed but do not bake. Instead, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If baking directly from frozen, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-60 minutes, removing the foil during the last 15 minutes to brown the cheese.

3. Can I use jarred Alfredo sauce instead of homemade?

• Yes, you can use a high-quality store-bought Alfredo sauce for convenience, but making it from scratch significantly enhances the dish’s richness and freshness. Homemade Alfredo sauce has a silkier texture and a more pronounced cheesy-garlic flavor compared to most jarred versions, which can sometimes taste artificial or overly thick. If using store-bought Alfredo, consider adding extra garlic, Parmesan, or a splash of cream to improve the flavor.

4. What other cheeses work well in this dish?

Mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan are the classic trio used in stuffed shells, but you can experiment with other cheeses for a unique twist. Here are a few options:

• Provolone: Adds a mild smokiness and melts beautifully.
• Fontina: Known for its rich and creamy texture, it enhances the dish’s luxurious feel.
• Gouda: Provides a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, which pairs well with the garlic butter chicken.
• Asiago: A sharper alternative to Parmesan that intensifies the cheesy depth of the Alfredo sauce.

5. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! Adding vegetables not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds extra layers of flavor and texture. Some great additions include:

• Spinach: Chop fresh or frozen spinach and mix it into the ricotta filling.
• Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add a savory, umami-rich flavor.
• Roasted bell peppers: Offer a slight sweetness and a pop of color.
• Broccoli: Finely chopped, steamed broccoli blends well with the creamy filling.

6. How do I prevent my stuffed shells from drying out?

To keep your stuffed shells moist and creamy:

• Make sure the Alfredo sauce covers all the shells before baking. This prevents the pasta from drying out.
• Cover the baking dish with foil for the first 25 minutes of baking, then remove it for the last 10-15 minutes to allow the cheese to brown beautifully.
• Let the baked dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to settle and thicken slightly.

7. Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! If you love a little heat in your meals, here are some ways to add spice:

• Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter chicken filling or Alfredo sauce.
• Use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for a spicy kick.
• Stir in a little cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into the ricotta mixture for extra depth.

8. How do I store leftovers, and how long will they last?

• Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and will stay fresh for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through. If the Alfredo sauce thickens too much after refrigeration, add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to restore its creaminess.

Conclusion

These Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a true comfort food masterpiece—rich, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making them for a cozy family dinner, a special occasion, or as a meal-prep dish to enjoy throughout the week, they’re guaranteed to impress. The combination of garlicky butter-infused chicken, velvety ricotta filling, and homemade Alfredo sauce makes each bite irresistible.

One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. You can modify the ingredients to suit your tastes, whether that means adding vegetables, using different cheeses, or incorporating a bit of spice. It’s also incredibly make-ahead friendly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings where you want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

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