Introduction to Chicken Stuffed Shells with Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo
Imagine the comforting aroma of pasta baking in your oven, filled to the brim with savory chicken and creamy Alfredo sauce. This is the delightful experience that awaits with Chicken Stuffed Shells with Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo. Not only does this dish boast rich flavors and a gorgeous presentation, but it also provides a warm hug of comfort food perfect for any occasion, from a cozy weeknight dinner to a gathering of friends.
The beauty of chicken stuffed shells lies in their versatility. You can customize the filling based on your cravings or what you have readily available in your fridge. However, it’s the marriage of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and a sun-dried tomato Alfredo sauce that makes this version truly standout. This dish elevates classic Italian flavors while being simple enough for even a novice cook.
What Makes This Dish a Standout?
Flavorful Filling: The combination of tender chicken, ricotta, and a blend of Italian spices creates a hearty, flavorful stuffing that packs a punch.
Luxurious Sauce: The rich sun-dried tomato Alfredo sauce adds a layer of complexity, balancing the savory filling with its creamy, slightly tangy profile. This sauce is not just for presentation; it’s the soul of the dish that pulls everything together.
Visual Appeal: The sight of these perfectly stuffed pasta shells, generously covered in sauce and melted cheese, can make anyone feel like a gourmet chef.
Easy to Prepare: Though it may sound gourmet, preparing these stuffed shells is quite straightforward, making it an ideal dish for busy young professionals looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
A Great Make-Ahead Option: These shells can be prepared ahead of time, making it easy to pop them into the oven when it’s time to eat.
So, whether you’re cooking for a few close friends or just looking to treat yourself, Chicken Stuffed Shells with Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo is sure to satisfy and impress. Dive into this delightful recipe and discover how a few simple ingredients can create a memorable meal.
Key Ingredients for Chicken Stuffed Shells with Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo
Chicken: For this dish, I prefer using cooked chicken breast, either shredded or diced, as it maintains its moisture and flavor. If you have leftovers from a roast, it’s the perfect opportunity to use them up, adding a wonderfully homey taste to your chicken stuffed shells.
Large Pasta Shells: Selecting the right-size pasta shells is crucial. I opt for large shells that tenderly cradle the savory filling. They need to be al dente to hold up during the baking process and prevent them from becoming mushy.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Packed with flavor, sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of tangy depth to the Alfredo. I use the ones packed in oil for a rich, smooth texture, and they also save you from needing to hydrate dry ones.
Cream: The heart of a luscious Alfredo sauce! I recommend heavy cream for a rich and velvety consistency. If you want a lighter option, half-and-half works too, but it may alter the overall richness.
Cheese: A blend of mozzarella and Parmesan creates a delightful cheesy flavor. The mozzarella adds that gooey melt, while the Parmesan brings a sharp, savory note that makes each shell irresistible.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic lends an aromatic foundation to the sauce, elevating the dish with its warmth and richness. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your love for this flavorful bulb.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Stuffed Shells with Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo
There’s something incredibly comforting about chicken stuffed shells, especially when they’re enveloped in a rich and creamy sun-dried tomato Alfredo sauce. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to your dinner table. Imagine indulging in oversized pasta shells generously filled with savory chicken and blended cheese, all coated in a velvety sauce that dances on your palate.
Wholesome Comfort Food
Chicken stuffed shells provide the perfect balance of protein and carbs, satisfying all your cravings. The stuffed shells are hearty yet surprisingly light, making them ideal for sharing with friends or family during a cozy night in.
Versatility at Its Best
What I truly love about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily customize the filling by adding your favorite veggies or even different proteins. Feeling adventurous? Try incorporating spinach or mushrooms for an added layer of flavor.
Culinary Connection
Sharing a meal is a beautiful way to connect with others. Preparing these chicken stuffed shells together can create cherished memories in the kitchen, allowing friends or family to bond over cooking while creating a delicious dish.
Prepare to fall in love with this delightful recipe—your taste buds will thank you!
Tips for Making Perfect Chicken Stuffed Shells with Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo
Creating chicken stuffed shells with sun-dried tomato Alfredo is about combining flavors and textures in a way that warms the heart. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:
Choose Quality Chicken
Using high-quality chicken is essential for depth of flavor. Opt for fresh, organic chicken breast when possible—it’s tender, juicy, and well worth the extra investment. A quick poach or grill with simple seasoning enhances its natural flavor.
The Right Shells
Selecting the right pasta shells can significantly impact your dish. Choose jumbo shells that are large enough to hold a generous filling. Boil them just until al dente; they’ll continue cooking when baked, ensuring a perfect texture.
Flavorful Filling
In your filling, consider using a mix of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan for a creamy, cheesy base. Adding herbs like basil or oregano elevates the flavor profile. If you love a little kick, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper adds a delightful touch.
Perfect Sauce
For the sun-dried tomato Alfredo, don’t skimp on the cream and cheese mix; it’s what binds everything together! Blend the sun-dried tomatoes until smooth for a consistent sauce throughout your dish, ensuring every bite is flavor-packed.
Bake to Perfection
Cover your chicken stuffed shells while baking to keep them moist, and uncover for the last few minutes to achieve that lovely golden top. Timing is everything; a few minutes too long can lead to dry shells.
These tips will help you create delicious chicken stuffed shells that are sure to impress! Enjoy the cooking process and the wonderful aroma as your dish comes together.
Time Details for Chicken Stuffed Shells with Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo
Cooking chicken stuffed shells filled with creamy goodness and topped with a delightful sun-dried tomato Alfredo can become your new favorite mid-week meal. Let’s break down the time it takes to prepare this delicious dish, ensuring you’re ready to impress with every bite!
Preparation time
Gathering your ingredients and prepping is quick and straightforward, taking about 20 minutes. You’ll want to do this efficiently, ensuring your chicken is cooked and shredded, and the vegetables are chopped and measured for a smooth cooking experience.
Cooking time
Once prepped, the cooking process will take about 30 minutes. This includes baking the stuffed shells until they’re wonderfully golden and bubbly. Your kitchen will be filled with enticing aromas, making it hard to wait!
Total time
In total, you’re looking at about 50 minutes from start to finish! Just enough time to catch up on a podcast or enjoy a glass of wine while you wait for this incredible dish to come together. Prepare to have a cozy dinner with chicken stuffed shells that’s sure to satisfy!
Nutritional Information for Chicken Stuffed Shells with Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo
When enjoying a hearty dish like Chicken Stuffed Shells with Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo, understanding the nutritional information can help you appreciate every delicious bite. This recipe combines rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it a satisfying meal.
Calories
Each serving of these chicken stuffed shells contains approximately 450 calories. This well-balanced dish is perfect for a fulfilling dinner without going overboard.
Protein
Pack in the protein with about 30 grams per serving. That’s a solid amount to keep you feeling satisfied and nourished, thanks to the tender chicken filling.
Sodium
Be mindful of sodium intake, as each serving has around 800 mg. While flavor-packed, you might consider balancing your day’s meals to ensure you meet your dietary goals.
FAQs about Chicken Stuffed Shells with Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo
Creating chicken stuffed shells with sun-dried tomato Alfredo not only promises a delightful meal but also invites some practical questions from kitchen enthusiasts. Let’s clear up some of the most common inquiries that arise when preparing this delicious dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing chicken stuffed shells in advance can save you time, especially on busy weeknights. You can assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if you bake it straight from the fridge. Alternatively, you can freeze the assembled shells for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If ricotta cheese isn’t your preference, don’t worry! You have a few tasty alternatives. Cream cheese can provide a creamy texture, while cottage cheese is a lighter option—just blend it for a smoother consistency. For a dairy-free version, try silken tofu blended with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Each substitute brings its unique flavor, so feel free to experiment!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover chicken stuffed shells should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Just a tip: adding a splash of cream or a sprinkle of cheese can rejuvenate the dish!
Conclusion on Chicken Stuffed Shells with Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo
In conclusion, chicken stuffed shells with sun-dried tomato Alfredo is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to your dining table. This dish, formed by perfectly cooked pasta filled with a savory chicken blend and enveloped in a creamy Alfredo sauce, makes for a satisfying weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend gathering entrée. As you delve into this delightful recipe, remember that the layers of flavors are crafted with love and care. Serving it with a side salad or garlic bread elevates the experience even further. Enjoy every bite and share it with loved ones!
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Creamy Chicken Stuffed Jumbo Pasta Shells
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delicious and creamy dish featuring jumbo pasta shells stuffed with chicken, ricotta, and mozzarella, topped with a flavorful sun-dried tomato Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 box jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked chicken (cut into 1/2″ pieces)
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons pesto
Instructions
- Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.
- In a blender, blend together the chicken broth and the sun-dried tomatoes and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, add the cream and bring to a boil. Boil for 1 1/2 minutes until slightly thickened. Add the sun-dried tomato mixture to the cream and mix. Then add the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture back up to a boil stirring constantly for another minute, or until all the cheese is melted, then remove the Alfredo sauce from the heat.
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells to al dente (just barely cooked through) according to the instructions on the box, drain, and set aside.
- In a 9″ x 13″ baking dish, spread 1 cup of the sun-dried tomato Alfredo in the bottom.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, 1/4 Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced sun-dried tomatoes, and spices. Mix together.
- Add the chicken and cheese mixtures, about 2 tablespoons at a time, into the cooked pasta shells.
- Place the pasta shells in the bottom of the baking dish. Spread remaining Alfredo sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle 1 cup mozzarella cheese on the stuffed shells. Drizzle pesto on top of shells too.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
- Feel free to add different herbs or spices for additional flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
