A Dish That Brings Back Memories

Some recipes have a way of making you feel at home, no matter where you are. For me, stuffed pasta shells are one of those dishes. They remind me of family gatherings, cozy Sunday dinners, and the joy of watching a bubbling, cheesy masterpiece come out of the oven.

The first time I made stuffed shells, I remember how nervous I was. Would they hold together? Would they be too dry or too soggy? But as I carefully filled each pasta shell with the creamy chicken mixture, I realized something—cooking isn’t just about perfection; it’s about love, patience, and sharing something delicious with the people around you.

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stuffed Shells recipe takes the classic concept of stuffed pasta and elevates it with a rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce. The combination of tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and a smooth, velvety sauce wrapped in jumbo pasta shells is pure comfort in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish never fails to impress.

What Makes This Dish Special?

There are plenty of stuffed shell recipes out there, but this one stands out for a few key reasons:

1. A Rich, Creamy Sauce

Instead of a traditional marinara base, this recipe uses a luxurious garlic Parmesan sauce made with heavy cream, butter, and a blend of cheeses. The result? A smooth, velvety texture that coats every shell beautifully.

2. Perfectly Seasoned Chicken

The diced chicken is cooked with garlic and Italian seasoning, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, the combination of Parmesan and mozzarella adds an extra layer of richness.

3. Versatile & Customizable

Not a fan of chicken? Swap it out for cooked sausage, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables. This recipe can easily be adjusted to fit your taste.

4. Impressive Yet Easy

Stuffed shells look fancy, but they’re surprisingly simple to make. With a little bit of assembly, you get a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a high-end Italian restaurant.

Ingredients:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Cook the Pasta Shells: Boil the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well.
4. Add Cheese & Seasoning: Stir in Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
5. Combine Chicken & Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Remove from heat.
6. Stuff the Shells: Fill each pasta shell with the creamy chicken mixture and arrange them in a baking dish.
7. Bake (Optional): If desired, sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese over the top and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the stuffed shells and serve warm.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.):

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 26g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg

These Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stuffed Shells are a delightful twist on classic stuffed pasta, combining rich, cheesy flavors with tender chicken for a comforting and satisfying meal!

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with This Dish

While these creamy stuffed shells are satisfying on their own, pairing them with the right sides can turn this meal into a feast. Here are a few great options:

Best Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: The perfect way to soak up the extra sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for a fresh contrast.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy dressing helps balance the richness of the pasta.
• Bruschetta: A light and flavorful appetizer to start the meal.

Drink Pairings

• White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the creamy sauce.
• Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing non-alcoholic option that cleanses the palate.
• Iced Tea: A lightly sweetened iced tea complements the dish without overpowering the flavors.

Expert Tips for the Best Stuffed Shells

1. Cook the Pasta Just Right

Jumbo shells should be cooked al dente—firm enough to hold their shape but soft enough to fill easily. Overcooking can make them too fragile and difficult to handle.

2. Use Freshly Grated Cheese

Pre-packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. For the best melt and texture, use freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella.

3. Let the Sauce Thicken

Simmering the sauce for a few extra minutes helps it reach the perfect creamy consistency. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.

4. Don’t Overfill the Shells

Each shell should be filled just enough to hold the creamy chicken mixture without overflowing. This ensures that every bite is balanced and full of flavor.

5. Bake for an Extra Golden Touch

While this dish can be served straight from the stovetop, a quick 10-minute bake at 375°F with extra mozzarella on top creates a beautiful golden crust.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While jumbo shells work best for stuffing, you can also use manicotti, large rigatoni, or even lasagna sheets rolled up with the filling inside.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the stuffed shells, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great make-ahead meal for busy nights or dinner parties.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

4. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes! Prepare the stuffed shells as directed, but don’t bake them. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.

5. How can I make this dish lighter?

For a healthier version, try these substitutions:

• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Swap regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free shells.
• Use low-fat mozzarella and Parmesan to reduce calories.

6. Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or even artichokes make great additions to the filling for extra flavor and nutrients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stuffed Shells recipe is one of those dishes that makes everyone gather around the table with excitement. It’s comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make.

Here’s why you should try it today:

✔ Easy to make – Even beginners can master it.
✔ Crowd-pleaser – Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
✔ Rich and satisfying – Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
✔ Make-ahead friendly – Great for meal prep or freezing for later.

Conclusion: A Meal Worth Savoring

Some dishes are more than just food—they’re experiences. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stuffed Shells recipe brings warmth, comfort, and joy to the dinner table with every bite.

Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a date night, or just because you crave something rich and satisfying, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite.

So gather your ingredients, take your time stuffing those shells, and get ready to enjoy a meal that feels like a big, cheesy hug on a plate.

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