There’s something incredibly warm and inviting about a creamy pasta dish that brings back memories of family dinners and cozy nights in. Cowboy Butter Chicken Shells in Three-Cheese Sauce is one of those recipes that you’ll want to make time and again. It’s not just easy to prepare, but it’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have your loved ones asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love Cowboy Butter Chicken Shells in Three-Cheese Sauce
- Fast
- Easy
- Giftable
- Crowd-pleasing
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells: These large shells are perfect for stuffing and hold all the delicious fillings.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A must for adding flavor and helping to cook the chicken.
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded: You can use leftover chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time.
- 1 cup cowboy butter: This adds a rich, buttery flavor. Check my note for the recipe!
- 1 cup heavy cream: For that luscious, creamy sauce that coats every bite.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty and gooey, it adds a lovely texture.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: This brings a bit of sharpness to balance the creaminess.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that nutty, salty flavor that ties it all together.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A staple in many kitchens, it adds a wonderful aroma.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: This enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning your dish just right.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Shells in Three-Cheese Sauce
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for that perfect bake!
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once done, drain them and set them aside.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and cowboy butter, stirring until the chicken is well coated and heated through.
- In a separate saucepan, combine the heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook over low heat, stirring until the cheeses are melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Now comes the fun part! Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken mixture and place them neatly in a baking dish.
- Pour the three-cheese sauce generously over the stuffed shells, making sure they are well covered.
- Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are bubbly and golden on top.
- Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
Substitutions & Additions
If you’re looking to switch things up a bit, here are a few fantastic ideas:
- Use ground beef or turkey in place of shredded chicken for a different protein.
- Try adding some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies.
- For a spicier kick, mix in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Switch out the cheeses according to your preference; gouda or pepper jack can add a nice twist!
Tips for Success
Here are some tips I’ve gathered over the years to ensure your Cowboy Butter Chicken Shells turn out perfectly:
- Don’t overcook the pasta shells; they should be firm since they’ll continue cooking in the oven.
- Make sure to coat the chicken well with the cowboy butter for maximum flavor.
- If you want to prep ahead, you can assemble the dish the night before and bake it just before serving.
How to Store Cowboy Butter Chicken Shells in Three-Cheese Sauce
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. I find that they taste even better the next day!
FAQs
- Can I freeze these shells? Yes! They freeze well. Just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- What can I serve with cowboy butter chicken shells? A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish.
- Can I make this vegetarian? Absolutely! Swap the chicken for a mix of your favorite veggies.
I hope you enjoy making these Cowboy Butter Chicken Shells in Three-Cheese Sauce as much as I do! For more delicious recipes, check out my blog or Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes for treats you will love!
If you love this recipe, be sure to follow me on Pinterest for more culinary inspiration!