Creamy Chicken Stuffed Shells: Easy Family Dinner

Introducing Creamy Chicken Stuffed Shells – a simple, budget-friendly meal perfect for families. This dish combines cooked chicken, boxed stuffing, cream of chicken soup, milk, and mayonnaise. It’s all wrapped in large pasta shells. It’s easy to make ahead and reheat, great for busy weeknights.

Creamy Chicken Stuffed Shells are often served alone because they’re so satisfying. But they also go well with green beans or a fresh salad. You’ll get 20-22 stuffed shells, enough for a crowd or leftovers all week.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to pasta dishes, Creamy Chicken Stuffed Shells will be a hit. So, get your ingredients ready, preheat your oven, and enjoy the tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta shells.

What Are Chicken Stuffed Shells?

Chicken stuffed shells are a tasty Italian dish. They have jumbo pasta shells filled with chicken, cheese, and sometimes veggies. This dish is both delicious and filling, perfect for the whole family.

Origin of Stuffed Shells

The idea of stuffed shells comes from Italian cooking. For ages, Italian cooks have filled pasta shells with different ingredients. The chicken version is a favorite in America, loved by many.

Popular Variations

Chicken stuffed shells can also have other tasty fillings. Some favorites include:

• Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells
• Beef and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
• Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Shells

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken stuffed shells are good for you. They have protein from chicken and cheese, carbs from pasta, and sometimes veggies. This makes them a healthy and tasty choice for dinner.

“Chicken stuffed shells are a comforting and delicious way to enjoy a classic Italian dish with a protein-packed twist.”

Ingredients Needed for Chicken Stuffed Shells

Starting to make cheesy chicken stuffed shells means getting the right stuff. Let’s dive into what you need for this tasty dish.

Essential Ingredients

• Jumbo pasta shells
• Cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• Ricotta cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Eggs
• Alfredo or marinara sauce

Optional Add-Ins

1. Spinach
2. Fresh basil
3. Garlic powder
4. Nutmeg

Cheese Choices

Many recipes mix ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan for chicken pasta. But, you can swap cottage cheese for ricotta if you like. It’s all about what you prefer and what fits your diet.

“The mix of creamy ricotta, shredded chicken, and gooey mozzarella makes cheesy chicken stuffed shells a must-try.”

Preparing the Chicken Filling

<p>The secret to amazing <strong>creamy chicken stuffed shells is the filling. First, cook your chicken. You can use a rotisserie chicken or sauté boneless, skinless chicken breasts until they’re done. Then, shred or dice the chicken into small pieces.

In a big bowl, mix the chicken with thawed and drained frozen spinach, creamy ricotta cheese, and mozzarella. Add Parmesan, a beaten egg, fresh basil, garlic powder, salt, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir until the filling is smooth and creamy.

Cooking the Chicken

• Use 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• Sauté boneless, skinless chicken breasts until no longer pink, then shred or dice

Mixing in Seasonings

1. Add 1 cup of thawed and squeezed-dry frozen spinach
2. Stir in 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan
3. Beat in 1 large egg
4. Season with 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped basil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of nutmeg

Adding Cheese and Veggies

The creamy chicken filling is now ready to fill the cooked pasta shells. The mix of savory chicken, melted cheese, and herbs makes a delicious taste. It’s sure to please your family’s taste buds.

“The key to a truly outstanding chicken alfredo stuffed shells dish is in the preparation of the filling. Take the time to mix the components thoroughly for a rich, creamy texture.”

How to Cook the Pasta Shells

When making Chicken Stuffed Shells, picking the right pasta is crucial. You need jumbo pasta shells for this recipe. They have enough room for the tasty chicken and cheese filling.

Choosing the Right Shells

You’ll need a 12-ounce box of jumbo pasta shells for this chicken stuffed pasta dish. Cooking the whole box is a good idea. This way, you won’t run out of shells, even if some break.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Shells

1. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water.
2. Put the jumbo pasta shells in the boiling water and cook as the package says, until they’re al dente.
3. Drain the shells and rinse them with cold water to stop cooking.
4. This helps the shells keep their shape and makes them easier to stuff.

Cooling and Handling

Let the pasta shells cool down completely before stuffing them. This prevents them from breaking or crumbling. Handle the shells gently to keep them intact for the final step.

“The key to perfect chicken stuffed shells is to cook the pasta just until al dente. This ensures the shells maintain their shape and texture when filled and baked.”

Assembling the Stuffed Shells

Getting the baked stuffed shells just right is all about how you put them together. Start by filling each cooked pasta shell with the tasty chicken ricotta stuffing. Then, place the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish, making sure they’re in a single layer with the open side up.

Layering in the Baking Dish

After arranging the shells, it’s time to add the creamy Alfredo sauce. Pour about 1 cup of sauce at the bottom of the dish. Then, pour the remaining 1 cup over the stuffed shells, making sure each one is well-coated.

Tips for Even Cooking

1. Top the shells with an extra 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese for a cheesy finish.
2. Don’t overcrowd the shells in the dish. Leave some space for even cooking.
3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil before baking to keep it moist and prevent drying.

By using these assembly and layering tips, you’ll get a casserole of creamy, cheesy baked stuffed shells. They’re sure to impress your family and friends.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

To make your creamy chicken stuffed shells even better, you’ll need a tasty Alfredo-style sauce. This sauce is rich and smooth, making it a great match for the chicken and pasta inside.

Sauce Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Cooking the Sauce Steps

In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy whipping cream and whisk to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce has thickened slightly.

Flavor Enhancements

To add even more flavor to your chicken alfredo stuffed shells, stir in 1/2 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 tablespoon of the Creole seasoning, and the Italian seasoning. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. The result is a rich, creamy sauce that will perfectly complement the savory chicken and pasta filling.

Baking the Chicken Stuffed Shells

Now it’s time to bake your chicken pasta bake in the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Get ready for a meal that will make your taste buds dance.

Recommended Oven Temperature

The best oven temperature for baking your chicken stuffed shells is 350°F (175°C). This temperature cooks the shells perfectly. It also keeps the cheese and filling moist and delicious.

Cooking Time Guidelines

For a general guideline, bake the chicken stuffed shells for 30-40 minutes. Cover the dish with aluminum foil for the first 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to let the cheese brown.

Covering vs. Uncovering

• Covering the dish with foil during the initial baking time helps the shells cook through and the filling heat up evenly.
• Removing the foil towards the end allows the cheese on top to melt and brown, creating a beautiful, bubbly crust.
• Keep a close eye on the shells during the final uncovered baking to prevent over-browning or drying out.

The chicken stuffed shells are ready when they’re hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature is at least 165°F (74°C). Enjoy your homemade chicken pasta bake!

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Stuffed Shells are perfect for a family dinner. You can choose from many tasty sides to go with the creamy filling and pasta. These options will make your meal even better.

Side Dishes That Pair Well

• Fresh and crunchy salads, like Caesar or broccoli with raisins and bacon, are great.
• Roasted veggies like asparagus, broccoli, carrots, and potatoes add a healthy touch.
• Garlic bread, cheesy breadsticks, or soft dinner rolls are perfect for the sauce.
• Sides like sausage, meatballs, or baked potatoes add protein and flavor.

Garnishing and Presentation Ideas

To make your Chicken Stuffed Shells look better, try garnishing with parsley or basil. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of Alfredo or marinara sauce can also enhance it.

Pairing with Salads

Chicken Stuffed Shells are filling enough to be a main dish. But, a simple green salad is a great side. The salad’s crunch and freshness contrast nicely with the creamy filling.

Chicken Stuffed Shells are versatile. Try different sides to find what your family likes best.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

Enjoying the delicious chicken pasta bake or baked stuffed shells doesn’t have to end when the meal is over. Proper storage and reheating techniques can help you savor those tasty leftovers for days to come.

Refrigeration Guidelines

The USDA says to refrigerate cooked meals within two hours to stop bacteria growth. Leftovers can safely stay in the fridge for up to four days in an airtight container. Cooked chicken lasts 3-4 days, and pasta and pizza can also last 3-4 days.</p>

Freezing Chicken Stuffed Shells

You can freeze the chicken pasta bake or baked stuffed shells before baking for longer storage. Just assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Then, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.

Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerated leftovers: Reheat in a 350°F oven, covered, for 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Frozen leftovers: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
• Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can lead to uneven heating and drying out of the pasta and sauce.

By following these simple storage and reheating guidelines, you can enjoy the flavors of your homemade chicken pasta bake</strong> or baked stuffed shells for days to come.

Nutritional Information

Chicken Stuffed Shells have a good mix of calories, protein, and other nutrients. A serving of 2-3 shells has about 575 calories. It includes 22g of fat, 54g of carbs, and 39g of protein.

Caloric Breakdown

The calories in Chicken Stuffed Shells come from pasta, chicken filling, and cheese. An 85-gram serving has 133 calories. It has 5.5g of fat, 2.8g of saturated fat, and 47mg of cholesterol.

Protein Content

Chicken Stuffed Shells are high in protein, thanks to chicken and cheese. Each serving has 7.1g of protein. This makes it a good choice for those who want more protein.

Keeping It Healthy

To make Chicken Stuffed Shells healthier, use low-fat cheese and add more veggies. Try adding spinach or broccoli to the filling. Also, choose whole-grain pasta shells for more fiber and nutrients.

By paying attention to the nutritional values and making a few tweaks, you can enjoy Chicken Stuffed Shells. It can be a healthier option for your family.

Tips for Customizing Your Chicken Stuffed Shells

Chicken stuffed shells are loved by many, but you can make it your own. You can make it vegetarian, change the spice, or use leftover chicken. There are many ways to make this recipe your own.

Vegetarian Alternatives

For a meatless version, swap the chicken with sautéed veggies like broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also use tofu or plant-based ground meat to get the chicken feel.

Spice Level Adjustments

Want it spicy? Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage. For a milder taste, skip the red pepper flakes and use mild cheese like ricotta.

Incorporating Leftover Chicken

Use leftover rotisserie chicken or boiled chicken breasts to save time. Shred it and mix it with ricotta, Parmesan, and seasonings for a quick filling.

Customizing chicken stuffed shells is all about trying new things. Experiment with ingredients and flavors to find what your family loves. With a bit of creativity, you can enjoy this dish in a whole new way.

Conclusion: Enjoying Family Time with Chicken Stuffed Shells

Chicken Stuffed Shells is a great meal for families. It’s easy to make and can become a special tradition. Let your kids help stuff the shells or pick toppings for fun.

Make it a regular dinner, like every week or month. Let everyone suggest new sides or toppings to keep it exciting.

Encouraging Family Involvement

Cooking together is a great way to bond and teach kids. Let your kids help with the meal, like mixing the filling or arranging the shells. It builds pride and creates memories.

Making It a Tradition

Make Chicken Stuffed Shells a family favorite. Add it to your regular dinner plans, maybe on a certain night. This lets you try new things while keeping the dish familiar.

Sharing Your Own Variations

Don’t be shy to make Chicken Stuffed Shells your own. Share your recipes and ideas with others. This way, you can inspire others to enjoy this comforting dish too.