Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells offer a delightful twist on the classic Italian comfort food, combining creamy Alfredo sauce with tender chicken and perfectly stuffed pasta shells. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors wrapped in a warm embrace of cheese and sauce, making it an instant favorite in any household.
Origin and Cultural Significance
The roots of Alfredo sauce trace back to early 20th-century Rome, where Alfredo di Lelio created it as a simple dish for his wife, who was recovering from an illness. Over time, it became a beloved staple, evolving into various adaptations that have traveled across the globe. Stuffed pasta like shells and cannelloni has its origins in Italian cooking, often filled with meats, cheeses, or vegetables, showcasing the heart of Italian cuisine: using what you have on hand to create something comforting and satisfying.
Unique Ingredients and Flavors
This recipe combines a medley of ingredients to create a harmonious dish. The creamy Alfredo sauce acts as a luxurious blanket for the stuffed shells, while the tender chicken brings a savory depth. As you layer in spices like garlic and a hint of nutmeg, the flavors dance together, elevating the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. The addition of fresh herbs, such as parsley, not only brightens the flavor but also adds a pop of color that is visually appealing.
Cooking Techniques
Cooking these stuffed shells involves a few simple yet effective techniques that ensure a delicious outcome. From boiling the pasta just right to avoid breakage, to gently mixing the filling to retain the moisture in the chicken, every step is crucial. Baking the dish until bubbly creates a tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This recipe isn’t just about feeding the body; it’s about nourishing the soul with every comforting bite.
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Description
These Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a delightful twist on a classic dish, filled with tender chicken and creamy Alfredo sauce, all nestled in giant pasta shells for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Instructions
Prepare the Pasta Shells
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Cook the Jumbo Shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.Make sure not to overcook the shells, as they will continue cooking in the oven later.
Make the Chicken Alfredo Filling
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Cook the Chicken
In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then dice it into small pieces.Feel free to use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker option! -
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
In a saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce! -
Combine the Filling
In a large bowl, mix the diced chicken with half of the Alfredo sauce and some chopped fresh parsley. Add salt and pepper to taste.Reserve the rest of the sauce for later; it will be used for topping the shells.
Stuff and Assemble the Shells
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Stuff the Shells
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked jumbo shell with the chicken Alfredo mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish.Don’t overstuff the shells; a generous tablespoon per shell should do the trick. -
Top with Sauce and Cheese
Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of shredded mozzarella for a bubbly finish.For a crispy top, consider broiling for the last few minutes of baking!
Bake the Dish
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Bake the Stuffed Shells
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.Let the dish sit for about 5 minutes before serving; it helps the filling set a bit!
Note
- Use large pasta shells for stuffing; make sure they are al dente to prevent them from breaking while filling.
- For a creamier filling, consider adding a bit of ricotta cheese or cream cheese to the chicken and alfredo mixture.
- Sauté minced garlic in olive oil before adding it to the filling for an aromatic boost.
- Swap out cooked chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken to save time without sacrificing flavor.
- Incorporate spinach or sautéed mushrooms into the filling for added nutrition and earthiness.
- If you prefer a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the alfredo sauce or the filling.
- Bake the shells covered with foil for the first 20 minutes to ensure they heat through without drying out, then uncover for the last 10 minutes for a golden top.
- For a gourmet touch, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan and chopped parsley on top before serving.
- These stuffed shells can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, making them perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently in the oven or microwave.