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Chicken Alfredo Shells
Olivia

Chicken Alfredo Shells

This Chicken Alfredo Shells recipe transforms classic chicken Alfredo into something even more special. Instead of fettuccine, we use pasta shells that capture every bit of that luscious sauce. The combination of tender chicken, creamy Alfredo, and perfectly cooked shells creates a restaurant-quality dish right in your home kitchen.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 625
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound medium pasta shells
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining. Set the shells aside.
  2. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of butter. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
  3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board. After five minutes, slice or dice it into bite-sized pieces.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the remaining butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the cream cheese in small chunks, stirring constantly until completely melted and smooth.
  6. Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. If it becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
  7. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the creamy sauce. Then fold in the cooked pasta shells, ensuring each piece gets covered in the sauce. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  8. Transfer your Chicken Alfredo Shells to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. You can customize the recipe with different proteins or vegetables based on your family's preferences.