As a busy mom, finding recipes that please my family and fit our busy lives is tough. That’s why I’m thrilled to share this Chicken Stuffed Shells recipe with a creamy ricotta filling. It’s not just tasty, but also simple to make and great for meals ahead of time.
Table of Contents
Irresistible Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells
Delicious Comfort Food for the Whole Family
Get ready to be amazed by these chicken stuffed shells! They are a comfort food dream, loved by all for their creamy cheese and tasty tomato sauce. The filling is a mix of shredded chicken, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, making it both tasty and filling.
This recipe makes 4 servings, great for family meals or small parties. It takes just 30 minutes to prepare and 1 hour and 45 minutes to cook. Soon, you’ll have a delicious cheesy pasta bake ready to enjoy.
Each serving has 28 grams of protein and 35 grams of carbs, making it a nutritious meal. The creamy cheese and tomato sauce together are a match made in heaven. Your family will love it and ask for more.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 800 |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
“The creamy, cheesy aspect of the dish makes it a comforting favorite that’s perfect for various occasions, from family dinners to special gatherings.”
chicken stuffed shells recipe
Get ready to indulge in a delicious chicken stuffed shells recipe. It’s comforting and easy to make. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with creamy, cheesy chicken, then baked in tomato sauce. It’s a hit with families and perfect for weeknights.
The recipe starts with 12 uncooked jumbo pasta shells. They’re filled with 1 cup of cooked shredded chicken, 16 ounces of ricotta cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan. You’ll also need 2 cups of shredded mozzarella, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and more.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Jumbo Pasta Shells | 12 uncooked shells |
| Cooked Shredded Chicken | 1 cup |
| Ricotta Cheese | 16 ounces |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Shredded Mozzarella Cheese | 2 cups |
| Egg | 1 |
| Italian Seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Marinara Sauce | 3 cups |
| Heavy Cream | 1/2 cup |
The chicken stuffed shells are baked at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. They come out with melted, bubbly cheese. This baked pasta dish serves 6, with each serving having 554 calories. It’s a satisfying meal for the whole family.
“This chicken stuffed shells recipe is a game-changer. The creamy, cheesy filling paired with the flavorful tomato sauce is simply irresistible.”
Easy Preparation and Filling Options
Making the easy chicken stuffed shells recipe is simple. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. You can also change up the filling to fit your family’s taste. Add spinach, mushrooms, or other veggies to mix things up.
You’ll need 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken to start. The filling also has 2 cups of cottage cheese, 4 ounces of cream cheese, and 2 cups of mozzarella cheese. Don’t forget an egg and some Italian seasoning for extra taste.
For a flavor boost, sauté 8 ounces of mushrooms until they’re brown. Then, add them to the filling for more taste. You can bake the chicken stuffed shells right away or prep them ahead. This makes them a great make-ahead meals choice.
- Yields approximately 20-25 jumbo stuffed shells
- 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken are required
- Filling includes 2 cups of cottage cheese, 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, and 2 cups of mozzarella cheese (divided)
- Sautéed mushrooms can be added to the filling for extra flavor
- The shells can be assembled in advance and baked when ready to serve
This easy chicken stuffed shells recipe is a hit with families. It’s easy to customize and great for meal prep. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Delicious Filling and Creamy Tomato Sauce
The chicken stuffed shells recipe shines with its amazing filling. It’s made of shredded chicken, creamy ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and parmesan. This mix is the perfect match for the tender pasta shells. It’s then baked in a creamy tomato sauce, making it a flavor-packed pasta dish.
To get the flavors just right, the shells are slightly undercooked. This helps them stay firm while baking. About two tablespoons of filling per shell is the right amount for each bite.
A Flavor-Packed Combination
The chicken ricotta filling and creamy tomato sauce are a match made in heaven. The tangy tomato sauce pairs well with the cheesy filling. Fresh basil and a mix of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses add even more flavor.
This flavor-packed pasta dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a fancy appetizer. It’s also great because you can make it ahead of time or freeze it. It’s a hit with families and busy households alike.
Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Friendly
Chicken stuffed shells are perfect for make-ahead meals and meal prepping. This tasty baked pasta dish can be put together early. It’s great for busy weeknights because you can just reheat it.
They can stay in the fridge for up to 4 days. This means you can enjoy a comforting meal whenever you want. It’s easy and convenient.
For even longer storage, you can freeze them. This makes them a great meal prep friendly choice. You can make lots at once and have them ready for quick dinners.
Just thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake as usual. It’s a quick and delicious dinner option.
“Chicken stuffed shells are a lifesaver for busy families. I love that I can make them ahead of time and have a delicious, home-cooked meal ready to go on those hectic weeknights.”
This recipe is a hit with busy home cooks for many reasons. Its cheesy filling and creamy tomato sauce make it a family favorite. You can count on it for many meals.
Serving Suggestions and Versatility
Chicken stuffed shells are a versatile dish perfect for many occasions. They’re great for family meals or weeknight dinners. The cheesy filling and creamy tomato sauce go well with garlic bread, salads, or roasted veggies.
This recipe can be customized to fit different tastes and diets. Try using sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers for a vegetarian version. Or, add Italian sausage or ground beef for a heartier dish. The options are endless with this versatile pasta.
Endless Possibilities
Chicken stuffed shells are not just a main dish. They’re also great as a side or part of an Italian-themed spread. Pair them with meatballs, chicken parmesan, or lasagna for a feast. Their rich flavors and creamy texture make them a hit at any gathering.
| Serving Suggestion | Flavor Profile | Occasion |
|---|---|---|
| Main Course | Cheesy, Savory, Comforting | Family-Friendly Meals, Weeknight Dinners |
| Side Dish | Creamy, Flavorful, Versatile | Italian-Inspired Spreads, Potlucks |
| Part of a Larger Meal | Indulgent, Satisfying, Crowd-Pleasing | Special Occasions, Gatherings |
This chicken stuffed shells recipe is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Its mix of savory flavors and creamy texture makes it perfect for various settings. Enjoy it at cozy dinners or festive celebrations.
Leftovers and Storage Tips
Enjoying a delicious baked pasta dish like chicken stuffed shells doesn’t have to end when the meal is over. You can savor the leftovers for days with proper storage. Simply place any remaining chicken stuffed shells in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-4 days.
When reheating, you have a few easy options. You can place the shells in a preheated 375°F oven, covered with foil, for about 15 minutes. Or, reheat individual portions in the microwave, keeping the shells’ texture and flavor.
These chicken stuffed shells also freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as instructed.
With these simple storage tips, enjoy your homemade baked pasta dishes for days or weeks. Having a comforting dish ready to go is convenient and satisfying.
“The recipe makes a big casserole dish and plenty of servings for 6-8 people. I love having the leftovers to enjoy for lunch or dinner the next day.”
| Storage Method | Refrigerator | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked Shells | 3-4 days | up to 3 months |
| Uncooked Shells | N/A | up to 3 months |
Nutritional Information
The chicken stuffed shells recipe is a tasty and comforting pasta dish. It’s a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Each serving has 554 calories, 27g of fat, and 35g of protein. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
The dish has 43g of carbohydrates, with 3g of dietary fiber and 5g of sugar. It has a sodium content of 1070mg per serving. But, it’s rich in vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron, and vitamin A.
For those with dietary restrictions, the recipe has 134mg of cholesterol and 14g of saturated fat. It’s important to think about these values when planning meals, especially if you have health concerns.
This recipe is unique among baked pasta dishes because of its high protein content and balanced nutrient profile. It’s a delicious and satisfying choice for a healthy diet.
“This chicken stuffed shells recipe is a delicious and nutritious meal that the whole family can enjoy. The combination of protein-rich chicken, creamy ricotta, and flavorful tomato sauce makes it a truly irresistible dish.”
Conclusion
The chicken stuffed shells recipe is a delightful dish. It combines tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and melty cheese. This makes for a comforting and satisfying pasta meal.
It’s easy to prepare and you can customize the filling. This makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. The chicken stuffed shells are sure to be a hit with everyone.
This recipe is also good for you. It has 400-500 calories, 30g of protein, and 20g of fat. Plus, it has 40g of carbohydrates and 3g of fiber. You can also adjust the filling and sauce to fit your family’s tastes.
If you’re looking for a new baked pasta dish, try this recipe. It’s easy to make and delicious. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
FAQ
What makes this chicken stuffed shells recipe so delicious?
This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and melty cheese. It’s a comfort food dish perfect for family dinners or make-ahead meals.
How easy is the preparation for this recipe?
Preparing this recipe is straightforward. It’s great for busy weeknights or meal prepping. You can also customize the filling to your liking.
What is the filling made of?
The filling is a mix of shredded chicken, creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses.
Can this dish be made in advance?
Yes, it’s perfect for make-ahead meals and meal prepping. You can refrigerate it for up to 4 days or freeze it for longer.
How can the chicken stuffed shells be served?
These shells are versatile. Serve them as a main course for family dinners or as part of an Italian-inspired spread. They go well with garlic bread, salad, or other Italian sides.
How do I reheat leftover chicken stuffed shells?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F, covered with foil, for 15 minutes. Or, reheat individual portions in the microwave.
How nutritious is this chicken stuffed shells recipe?
This dish is both flavorful and nutritious. It’s a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Each serving has 554 calories, 27g of fat, 35g of protein, and essential nutrients.