Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe

Name: Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 jumbo pasta shells; 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Recipe By:

Emily Harrison

Posted:

May 9, 2025

Updated:

May 9, 2025

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Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are not your average pasta dish. Imagine creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and the rich aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table. These stuffed shells are a hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering.

I remember the first time I made Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells; my friends couldn’t stop raving about them. It felt like I had discovered a hidden treasure in my kitchen—each bite was pure comfort and joy. The anticipation builds as you pull them out of the oven, golden and bubbling, ready to delight taste buds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe features simple preparation steps that yield delicious results every time
The balance of creamy Alfredo and savory garlic makes for an unforgettable flavor experience
Visually stunning with their golden tops, these shells will elevate any meal
Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, they’re versatile and satisfying

Sharing this dish with my family led to endless compliments and requests for seconds.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Jumbo Pasta Shells: Look for large shells that can hold plenty of filling; they’re essential for a satisfying bite.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts should do; adjust based on your crowd size.
Fresh Garlic: Fresh cloves make a world of difference—choose firm ones for maximum flavor.
Heavy Cream: For that dreamy Alfredo sauce; don’t skimp on quality here!
Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh if possible; it adds a wonderful nutty depth to the sauce.
Butter: Use unsalted butter so you can control the salt level in your dish.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors to life.
Parsley (optional): Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness for garnish.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Boil Your Pasta Shells: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain them carefully to avoid tearing.

Prepare the Chicken Filling: While the pasta cooks, heat some butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute—then add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and Italian seasoning.

Create the Alfredo Sauce: In another saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Whisk in heavy cream gradually while stirring until smooth. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese while mixing until melted; season with salt and pepper.

Combine Everything Together: Once cooked chicken is ready, mix it into the creamy Alfredo sauce until well combined. Take care not to overmix; you want those chicken chunks!

Stuff Those Shells!: Carefully spoon the chicken Alfredo mixture into each jumbo shell using a small spoon or piping bag. Place stuffed shells upright in a baking dish lined with extra Alfredo sauce at the bottom.

Bake and Serve!: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving!

Now that you’ve made these delightful Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, get ready for compliments from everyone at your table! Enjoy every creamy bite as you bask in culinary glory!

You Must Know

Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a creamy, cheesy delight that makes weeknight dinners feel special
The combination of flavors and textures is irresistible, making it a crowd-pleaser for family and friends
Don’t forget to savor the aroma as they bake!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the chicken in garlic butter until golden brown. While that sizzles, boil your jumbo shells until al dente and prepare the creamy Alfredo sauce simultaneously for perfect timing.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in cooked shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for a unique flavor. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top or add fresh herbs like parsley for an aromatic finish.

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, adding a splash of cream if it seems dry.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To keep your stuffed shells from falling apart, gently fill them without overstuffing
Consider using a piping bag for neatness
Always taste your sauce before combining; seasoning can elevate this dish dramatically!

Sometimes, I still remember my first attempt at these stuffed shells. Let’s just say there were more shells on the floor than in the dish, but laughter made it unforgettable!

FAQs

FAQ

What can I use instead of chicken?

Consider using cooked shrimp or vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble and refrigerate it a day before baking for convenience.

How do I prevent my shells from breaking?

Be gentle when boiling and filling them; overcooking can lead to breakage.

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