Ingredients:
- 1 box Jumbo Shells
- 2 packages of chicken fajita meat (or grilled chicken strips), cooked and chopped
- 1 bottle of garlic Alfredo sauce
- 1 block of Colby Jack cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Jumbo Shells: Cook the jumbo shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Chicken Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked and chopped chicken fajita meat with about half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine.
3. Stuff the Shells: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take each cooked jumbo shell and carefully stuff it with the chicken and cheese mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish.
4. Pour Alfredo Sauce Over the Shells: Pour the garlic Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, making sure each shell is well covered with the sauce.
5. Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining shredded Colby Jack cheese over the top of the Alfredo sauce-covered shells. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve the Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells hot and enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
Feel free to customize this recipe further by adding chopped vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the chicken filling, or experimenting with different types of cheese according to your preference. Enjoy your meal!
Q1: Can I prepare the stuffed shells in advance and bake them later?
A1: Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove them from the fridge, let them come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, and then bake according to the recipe instructions.
Q2: Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells?
A2: Yes, you can freeze stuffed shells for later use. After stuffing the shells and before baking, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until they are firm. Then transfer the frozen shells to an airtight container or a freezer-safe dish, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to bake, place them in the oven directly from the freezer, adding a little extra baking time to ensure they are heated through.
Q3: Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
A3: Absolutely! While Colby Jack cheese adds a nice flavor, you can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, or even a blend of Italian cheeses to create your desired taste and texture.
Q4: What side dishes pair well with Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells?
A4: You can serve Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells with a variety of side dishes such as a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a light soup. These options complement the richness of the stuffed shells and create a balanced and satisfying meal.
Q5: Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce instead of store-bought?
A5: Absolutely! Homemade Alfredo sauce can add a personal touch to your dish. If you prefer homemade sauce, you can prepare it using ingredients like butter, heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Simply substitute the store-bought sauce with your homemade version in the recipe.
Q6: How do I prevent the stuffed shells from drying out during baking?
A6: To prevent the stuffed shells from drying out, make sure they are generously covered with Alfredo sauce both on top and around the sides. Also, covering the baking dish with foil during baking helps retain moisture. If you notice the top becoming too dry, you can add a little extra sauce or cover it with foil until the last few minutes of baking.
