Alice'S Jumbo Shells
Creamy stuffed shells filled with chicken, peas, and a savory dressing offer comfort and flavor, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the shells until tender and let them cool.
- Mix the Stove Top dressing, chopped cooked chicken, chopped onions, mayonnaise, and frozen peas in a bowl.
- Fill each cooled shell with about 1 tablespoon of the mixture.
- Combine the soup with approximately 3/4 cup of water and pour over the filled shells.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until heated through.
- Alternatively, microwave the dish for quick preparation.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a splash of chicken broth to the mixture. You can substitute the chopped cooked chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you don't have Stove Top dressing, use seasoned breadcrumbs with some herbs. Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor. This dish can also be made ahead and frozen.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Alice's Jumbo Shells with a side salad for a refreshing contrast and a light vinaigrette. Garlic bread would also complement the dish nicely. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with Parmesan Chicken (Yields 6 To 8 Servings) or a simple vegetable medley. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can re-bake it in the oven at 325°F until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Alice'S Jumbo Shells contains roughly 973 calories, with 6g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 99g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value), and protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 728mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the shells and filling in advance. Assemble the dish and cover it tightly. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Just be sure to adjust baking time if it goes in cold from the fridge.
What kind of soup should I use for the sauce?
You can use any cream-based soup, but Cream Of Broccoli Cheese Soup works particularly well for added flavor. Alternatively, a simple chicken broth can be used if you prefer a lighter sauce. Mixing in some herbs or spices can also elevate the dish further.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, while jumbo shells are traditional for this recipe, you can substitute with other large pasta shapes like manicotti or even stuffed shells. Just ensure that the pasta is large enough to hold the filling. Cooking times may vary, so check for tenderness during preparation.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).