Chicken Shells
Chicken Shells is a comforting baked dish featuring tender cooked chicken stuffed into large pasta shells, topped with a creamy chicken and pea mixture, and finished with a cheesy crust. Perfect for family dinners, it offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook large macaroni shells until tender, then drain and cool.
- Mix broken pieces of cooked chicken with mayonnaise and chopped onion.
- Fill each cooled shell with the chicken mixture.
- Place filled shells in a baking dish.
- Mix cream of chicken soup with water and pour over the shells.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding diced bell peppers or celery to the chicken mixture for extra crunch. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter option. If you prefer a bit of spice, add some hot sauce to the chicken mixture. Make sure the shells are large enough to hold the filling without tearing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chicken shells alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with a light vinaigrette to complement the creamy filling. For a heartier option, consider serving with garlic bread or a side of rice, similar to the flavors found in American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Shells contains roughly 310 calories, with 8g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 745mg 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 use different types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute shredded turkey, ham, or even cooked ground beef if you prefer. Just ensure the meat is fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients. This dish is versatile and can accommodate various proteins while maintaining its delicious flavor.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, replace the chicken with cooked mushrooms, lentils, or chickpeas. You can also incorporate more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added texture and nutrition. Adjust the cream of chicken soup with a vegetable-based option to keep it meat-free.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken shells a day ahead. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just remember to adjust the baking time if it comes straight from the fridge to ensure it's heated through properly.
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).