Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Shells: A Creamy and Delicious Dinner Recipe

Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Shells are a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that never fails to impress. As I prepared this dish for the first time, I was instantly captivated by the rich, creamy sauce enveloping tender pasta shells, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. This recipe draws inspiration from traditional Italian cuisine, where creamy sauces and hearty ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors.

People love Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Shells not just for their irresistible taste, but also for their delightful texture that combines the softness of the pasta with the succulent chicken and velvety sauce. Plus, this dish is incredibly convenient to make, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large pasta shells
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Pasta Shells

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is crucial for flavoring the pasta.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the large pasta shells. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
3. Once cooked, drain the pasta shells and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside on a baking sheet to cool slightly.

Cooking the Chicken

1. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Making the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Allow it to melt, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
2. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
3. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic butter. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Once simmering, add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Next, add the chopped spinach to the sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted.

Combining the Ingredients

1. Now it’s time to combine everything! Add the sliced chicken to the garlic butter sauce, stirring to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Carefully fold in the cooked pasta shells, ensuring each shell is filled with the creamy chicken mixture. You can use a spatula or a large spoon for this step.
3. Once everything is well combined, taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Baking the Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Transfer the filled pasta shells into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure to spread them out evenly.
3. If you have any leftover garlic butter sauce, drizzle it over the top of the shells for extra flavor and moisture.
4. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
5. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and slightly golden.

Serving the Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Shells

1. Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the sauce thicken slightly.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
3. Serve the garlic butter chicken Alfredo shells warm, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Tips and Variations

Conclusion:

In summary, the Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Shells recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner game. The creamy, rich Alfredo sauce combined with tender chicken and the delightful crunch of the pasta shells creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly comforting. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these delicious shells with a fresh garden salad or some garlic bread to soak up that luscious sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or broccoli, or even swapping out the chicken for shrimp or a plant-based protein for a different twist. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Shells recipe a try and experience the joy it brings to your table. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this delightful dish together! Happy cooking!

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