Creamy Chicken Stuffed Pasta Shells: A Delicious Twist on Italian Cuisine

Italian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and comforting dishes, and one standout example is the creamy chicken stuffed pasta shells. This recipe combines tender pasta shells filled with a savory mixture of chicken, cheese, and herbs, all bathed in a luscious creamy sauce. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a hearty meal, these stuffed pasta shells are sure to satisfy your culinary desires.

Ingredients:
Pasta Shells: 1 box (about 12 ounces) of jumbo pasta shells
Chicken: 2 cups of cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely chopped
Ricotta Cheese: 1 cup, whole milk
Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Spinach: 1 cup, chopped (optional)
Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
Salt and Pepper: to taste
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
Heavy Cream: 1 cup
Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup
Fresh Parsley: for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta Shells:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, chopped spinach (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Mix everything until well combined. The mixture should be moist and creamy.
3. Stuff the Pasta Shells:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Take each cooked pasta shell and fill it generously with the chicken and cheese mixture. Place the filled shells in a baking dish.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:

In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring constantly.
Let the mixture simmer gently until it starts to thicken, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake the Stuffed Shells:

Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the stuffed pasta shells in the baking dish.
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the shells are heated through.
6. Garnish and Serve:

Remove the baking dish from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Serve the creamy chicken stuffed pasta shells hot, with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
Why You'll Love It:
This creamy chicken stuffed pasta shells recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The tender pasta shells are filled with a decadent mixture of chicken and cheeses, complemented perfectly by the rich and creamy sauce. It's a dish that's comforting enough for a cozy family dinner yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings.

Whether you're a fan of Italian cuisine or simply looking to indulge in a hearty and satisfying meal, these creamy chicken stuffed pasta shells are sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Try them out for your next dinner and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade Italian flavors right at your table.