Introduction
Are you looking to elevate your dinner game with a delicious and satisfying meal? Look no further than these Yummy & Easy Stuffed Shells with Chicken & Garlic Butter. This recipe combines the rich flavors of tender chicken, savory garlic butter, and gooey cheese stuffed inside perfectly cooked pasta shells. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Stuffed shells are a classic comfort food that never fails to please both kids and adults alike. By adding chicken and garlic butter to the mix, we take this traditional dish to a whole new level of flavor and indulgence. The creamy and cheesy filling combined with the aromatic garlic butter sauce creates a mouthwatering combination that will have your family and friends asking for seconds.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the world of delectable stuffed shells with a twist. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this recipe is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s get cooking!
Before we jump into the detailed steps of creating this culinary masterpiece, let’s take a look at the essential ingredients you’ll need to have on hand to bring this dish to life.
Ingredients
To make these Yummy & Easy Stuffed Shells with Chicken & Garlic Butter, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Stuffed Shells:
– Jumbo pasta shells: 1 box
– Cooked chicken breast: 2 cups, shredded
– Ricotta cheese: 1 ½ cups
– Mozzarella cheese: 1 ½ cups, shredded
– Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated
– Egg: 1, beaten
– Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
– Butter: ½ cup
– Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
– All-purpose flour: ¼ cup
– Chicken broth: 2 cups
– Heavy cream: 1 cup
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Nutmeg: a pinch
For Garnish:
– Fresh parsley: for garnish
– Red pepper flakes: for a hint of spice
Steps
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s walk through the steps to create these irresistible stuffed shells:
Step 1: Prepare the Stuffed Shells
1. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with a generous amount of the chicken and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish and set aside.
4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to bake the stuffed shells in the next step.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
2. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for another minute to form a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook until it thickens to a creamy consistency. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
1. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the stuffed shells in the baking dish, ensuring they are fully covered in the luscious sauce.
2. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top for an extra gooey finish.
3. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes before serving hot.
Variations
While this recipe is already a winner in terms of flavor and comfort, feel free to get creative and try out some variations to suit your taste preferences:
Vegetarian Option:
If you prefer a meatless version, you can replace the chicken with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or your favorite vegetables for a delicious vegetarian twist.
Spicy Kick:
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling or the garlic butter sauce for a spicy kick.
Herb Infusion:
Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavors. Fresh basil, oregano, or thyme can add a fragrant herbaceous touch to the dish.
Tips
Here are some handy tips to ensure your stuffed shells turn out perfect every time:
Preparation Is Key:
Prep all your ingredients before you start assembling the dish to make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.
Cook Al Dente:
Be sure to cook the pasta shells al dente as they will continue to cook slightly in the oven during baking.
Let It Rest:
Allow the baked dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together and make it easier to portion out.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these Yummy & Easy Stuffed Shells with Chicken & Garlic Butter are a delightful twist on a classic favorite that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. The creamy filling, savory garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta shells create a harmony of flavors and textures that make this dish truly unforgettable.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. So, next time you’re craving a comforting and indulgent meal, give these stuffed shells a try and prepare to be amazed by the delicious results.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A: Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Absolutely! These stuffed shells freeze well, so you can enjoy them at a later time. Simply thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What can I serve with these stuffed shells?
A: These stuffed shells pair perfectly with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Q: How long will the leftovers last in the refrigerator?
A: When stored in an airtight container, the leftovers can last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
