Chicken Filled Shells
Creamy chicken stuffed shells with peas and celery soup offer comforting flavors, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with a savory, satisfying profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cooked chicken, peas, mayonnaise, and diced onion together.
- Stuff the mixture into cooked and drained jumbo shells.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish.
- Stir water into the can of cream of celery soup and pour over the shells.
- Cover the dish with foil.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using rotisserie chicken instead of plain cooked chicken. You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. If you want a spicy kick, mix in some diced jalapeños. Using variations like 'Nacho Style Chicken' can also bring an exciting twist to this dish. Always ensure the shells are fully cooked but not overcooked to prevent them from breaking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken filled shells with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. They pair well with steamed vegetables or a light soup like 'Creamy Potato-Onion Soup.' A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil can enhance the presentation and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken filled shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Filled Shells contains roughly 351 calories, with 6g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 471mg per serving (20% 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 use frozen peas instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen peas work perfectly in this recipe and eliminate the need for thawing. Just add them directly to the mixture for stuffing the shells. They will cook through in the oven, maintaining their bright color and sweet flavor.
What can I substitute for cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can use cream of chicken or mushroom soup as alternatives. Alternatively, you can make a homemade version by mixing heavy cream with sautéed celery and onion for a fresh twist.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make chicken filled shells vegetarian, substitute the chicken with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and ricotta cheese. You can also use plant-based mayonnaise and vegetable broth instead of cream of celery soup for a delicious vegetarian option.
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).