Description
A delicious and creamy pasta dish filled with chicken and cheeses, perfect for a family meal.
Ingredients
- 25–30 pieces large pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish, chopped
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Cook the Pasta Shells: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
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Fill the Shells: Carefully fill each cooked shell with the chicken and cheese mixture using a spoon.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, pour in heavy cream and add parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Assemble the Dish: Spread a thin layer of cream sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the filled shells on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining cream sauce over the stuffed shells.
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Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the tops are golden and bubbly.
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Garnish: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for garnish before serving.
Notes
- Cheese Variation: Swap out mozzarella or add in some Gouda or Fontina for different flavor profiles.
- Vegetable Boost: Add spinach or chopped broccoli to the filling for extra nutrients.
- Sauce Enhancement: For a richer flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or use garlic-infused butter in the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving