Chicken Stuffed Shells
Creamy stuffed shells filled with tender chicken, peas, carrots, and savory stuffing make for a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish combines rich flavors with a delightful texture, topped with a warm, creamy sauce for a hearty finish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the jumbo shells in boiling water for 8 to 10 minutes, but do not cook until completely done.
- Mix cooked chicken, peas, carrots, mayonnaise, prepared Stove Top stuffing, and chopped onions in a bowl.
- Stuff the mixture into the cooked shells.
- Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish and pour the cream of chicken soup and water mixture over them.
- Bake until heated through and bubbly, approximately 20-30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using rotisserie chicken instead of plain cooked chicken. You can also swap out the peas and carrots for your favorite vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. If you prefer a creamier filling, mix in some ricotta cheese or sour cream. Make sure not to overcook the shells, as they will continue cooking in the oven. This dish pairs wonderfully with Yellow Or Zucchini Squash Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken stuffed shells with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A light vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the dish. For a comforting touch, you might consider serving it alongside Jesse Stuart'S Cheese Stew, creating a hearty and satisfying dinner. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for an added pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover with foil to retain moisture and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, but be careful not to dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Stuffed Shells contains roughly 1149 calories, with 10g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 113g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1051mg per serving (46% 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 prepare the stuffed shells in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells a day ahead. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. If they are chilled, you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure they heat through completely.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. It will add creaminess while reducing fat content. Alternatively, a mixture of sour cream and a splash of lemon juice can provide a similar tangy flavor.
Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled stuffed shells before baking. Just make sure to cover them well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to cook, bake them directly from the freezer, adding about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
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).