Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells combine tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and cheese stuffed into jumbo pasta shells, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for those craving a hearty and satisfying Italian-inspired meal. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful dish step-by-step, along with tips, variations, and answers to common questions.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 jar (15 oz) Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, and dried Italian seasoning.
- Pour the Alfredo sauce over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
2. Cook on Low Heat:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
3. Shred the Chicken:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix with the Alfredo sauce.
4. Prepare the Stuffed Shells:
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
5. Make the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley (if using). Mix well until smooth and well combined.
6. Stuff the Shells:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spoon a generous amount of the cheese mixture into each cooked pasta shell. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in a baking dish.
7. Bake the Stuffed Shells:
- Pour the chicken Alfredo sauce mixture from the slow cooker over the stuffed shells, covering them evenly.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and garnish with additional chopped parsley, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells:
- Chicken Moisture: Ensure the chicken breasts are fully submerged in the Alfredo sauce while cooking to keep them moist and tender.
- Cheese Mixture: Adjust the cheese filling to your taste preference. Add more Parmesan for a stronger cheesy flavor or mix in some spinach for added nutrients.
- Cooking Time: Be careful not to overcook the jumbo pasta shells as they will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
Variations to Try:
- Spinach and Mushroom: Add sautéed spinach and mushrooms to the cheese filling for added flavor and texture.
- Seafood Twist: Substitute chicken with cooked shrimp or crab meat for a seafood Alfredo stuffed shells variation.
FAQs About Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells:
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken? A: Yes, you can use cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Simply shred the cooked chicken and mix it with Alfredo sauce before stuffing the shells.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this dish? A: Yes, you can freeze unbaked stuffed shells before baking. Prepare as directed up to the baking step, then cover tightly with foil and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells offer a delicious twist on traditional stuffed pasta dishes, combining creamy Alfredo sauce with tender chicken and cheesy goodness. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its comforting flavors and easy preparation. Enjoy the rich taste of Italian cuisine with every bite of this delightful meal.
Explore the simplicity and flavor of Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, perfect for any pasta lover looking to enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal
