Chicken Salad Stuffed Shells
Creamy chicken salad stuffed shells combine tender pasta with a flavorful curry-yogurt mixture, topped with crisp vegetables and scallions. This dish offers a delightful blend of spices and textures, perfect for a hearty lunch or light dinner that appeals to those who love bold flavors and satisfying bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the pasta shells as directed; drain and set aside.
- Combine curry powder, plain yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, prepared mustard, and pressed garlic in a bowl to make the filling.
- Add cooked chicken strips, chopped red pepper, chopped celery, sliced scallions, and sunflower seeds to the mixture.
- Toss lightly to combine all ingredients.
- Spoon approximately 1 1/2 tablespoons of the filling into each cooked shell.
- Chill the stuffed shells in the refrigerator before serving.
- Serve on a bed of lettuce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the plain yogurt. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the curry powder. You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience. To add a crunch, consider mixing in some nuts or sunflower seeds. For a vegetarian version, swap chicken with chickpeas and use a plant-based yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
These Chicken Salad Stuffed Shells are best served chilled on a bed of crisp lettuce. They make a delightful appetizer or light lunch. Pair them with a refreshing side like Linda'S Strawberry Salad for a balanced meal. For a more filling option, serve with a warm soup or bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but be careful not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Salad Stuffed Shells contains roughly 650 calories, with 8g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 712mg per serving (31% 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 these stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance. Just assemble them and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. This makes them perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier option, you can replace mayonnaise with additional yogurt or a vegan mayo substitute. This will keep the filling creamy while reducing calories.
Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled stuffed shells. Just ensure they are tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as directed.
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).