Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Introduction:

For those craving a taste of decadence and luxury in their home-cooked meals, Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are the ultimate indulgence. Imagine tender pasta shells stuffed with a creamy chicken Alfredo filling, baked to golden perfection, and garnished with a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. This exquisite dish elevates the classic comfort of stuffed shells to a whole new level of sophistication, making it perfect for special occasions or simply satisfying your craving for something truly extraordinary. In this article, we’ll explore the allure of Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells and share a sumptuous recipe for you to enjoy in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound jumbo pasta shells

– 2 cups cooked shredded chicken

– 2 cups Alfredo sauce

– 1 cup ricotta cheese

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken Alfredo mixture, using a spoon or piping bag.
4. Arrange the stuffed shells in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, snugly fitting them together.
5. Sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the stuffed shells.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
9. Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
10. Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: Makes 6 servings

Serving Tips:

1. Garnish for Elegance: Before serving Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, garnish them with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal to the dish, enhancing its presentation.
2. Serve with a Side Salad: Accompany the stuffed shells with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette. The acidity of the salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Alfredo sauce and adds a burst of flavor to each bite.
3. Pair with Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping into the creamy Alfredo sauce. The buttery garlic flavor complements the richness of the dish and provides a satisfying crunch.
4. Portion Control: Consider serving the stuffed shells individually on plates or in shallow bowls to ensure even portions and easy serving. This also allows guests to admire the presentation of each stuffed shell before indulging.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerate Leftovers Promptly: If you have any leftover Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, allow them to cool slightly before transferring them to an airtight container or wrapping them tightly with aluminum foil. Refrigerate the leftovers within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
2. Consume Within a Few Days: Enjoy the leftover stuffed shells within 3-4 days for the best taste and texture. Beyond that, the quality may start to decline, so it’s best to enjoy them sooner rather than later.
3. Reheat with Care: When reheating leftover stuffed shells, use the microwave or oven to gently warm them until heated through. To prevent them from drying out, you can cover them with aluminum foil while reheating. Adding a splash of milk or Alfredo sauce can also help maintain moisture.
4. Freeze for Future Enjoyment: If you’re not able to consume the leftovers within a few days, consider freezing them for longer storage. Place the cooled stuffed shells in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Frozen stuffed shells can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

FAQs:

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken, to save time. Simply shred or dice the cooked chicken before incorporating it into the filling mixture.
2. Can I prepare the stuffed shells in advance and bake them later? Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. Can I freeze the stuffed shells for later use? Yes, you can freeze the assembled stuffed shells for future meals. Place the stuffed shells in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Frozen stuffed shells can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling? Absolutely! While Parmesan cheese adds a deliciously nutty flavor to the filling, you can experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste preferences. Ricotta, mozzarella, or a blend of Italian cheeses can all work well in this recipe.
5. How do I know when the stuffed shells are done baking? The stuffed shells are done baking when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the shells are golden brown. You can also insert a knife into the center of a shell to ensure that the filling is heated through. If the cheese is not fully melted, continue baking for a few more minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.