Stuffed Chicken Shells
Creamy stuffed chicken shells are a comforting dish featuring tender pasta shells filled with seasoned chicken and stuffing, topped with rich cream of chicken soup. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this hearty recipe combines savory flavors with a satisfying texture, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions and drain.
- Cook chicken breasts until fully cooked, then cut into bite-size pieces.
- Prepare the stuffing mix as directed on the package.
- Mix the cooked chicken into the stuffing.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the chicken and stuffing mixture.
- Place the stuffed shells in a 9 x 15-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine the two cans of cream of chicken soup and pour the mixture over the stuffed shells.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the stuffing mix. You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for the chicken breasts to save time. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese with the soup before pouring it over the shells. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as part of a larger Chicken Dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed chicken shells with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Garlic bread or a light pasta dish can also complement the flavors well. For a comforting dinner, pair it with a warm bowl of Vegetable And Chicken Pot Pie or a side of gooey cheese garlic bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed shells in an oven-safe 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 individual servings for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Chicken Shells contains roughly 457 calories, with 33g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 724mg 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 use a different type of pasta instead of jumbo shells?
Yes, you can use other large pasta shapes like manicotti or even regular pasta, although the cooking time may vary. Just ensure the pasta is large enough to hold the stuffing mixture. If using smaller pasta, consider layering the chicken and stuffing in a baking dish instead.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or spinach and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Consider adding ricotta or cottage cheese to the stuffing mix for added creaminess. This variation will still be delicious and satisfying.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. Just cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, you may need to increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes if the shells are cold from the fridge.
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).