Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe: A Culinary Delight

Chicken stuffed shells recipe is a delectable dish that tantalizes taste buds with its savory flavors and tantalizing textures. This culinary masterpiece combines succulent chicken, tender pasta shells, and a creamy sauce to create a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.

Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure as we delve into the secrets of crafting this irresistible dish. With easy-to-follow instructions and helpful tips, you’ll master the art of making chicken stuffed shells that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

This delicious chicken stuffed shells recipe requires a few simple ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Pasta Shells

• 1 (16-ounce) package of jumbo pasta shells
• Salt, for boiling the pasta

Chicken Filling, Chicken stuffed shells recipe

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
• 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cheese Mixture

• 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Sauce

• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step s

Preparing chicken stuffed shells is a culinary adventure that combines flavors and textures to create a delightful dish. Follow these step-by-step s to master this recipe and impress your family and friends.

Before embarking on this culinary journey, ensure you have gathered all the necessary ingredients as per the recipe’s requirements. With everything in place, let’s dive into the cooking process.

Cooking the Chicken

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground chicken until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
2. While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package directions until al dente (tender but still slightly firm to the bite).

Preparing the Filling

• In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, spinach, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
• Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Stuffing the Shells

1. Drain the pasta shells and rinse them with cold water.
2. Using a small spoon or your fingers, carefully stuff each pasta shell with the chicken filling.

Baking the Stuffed Shells

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the marinara sauce.
• Arrange the stuffed shells over the sauce.
• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the shells are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Variations

The chicken stuffed shells recipe is versatile and offers endless possibilities for customization. Experiment with different fillings, sauces, and toppings to create unique and flavorful dishes.

Consider these variations to elevate your stuffed shells experience:

Fillings

• Spinach and ricotta:Combine chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings for a vegetarian option.
• Sausage and bell peppers:Brown Italian sausage and sauté with diced bell peppers, onions, and spices.
• Seafood:Use a combination of cooked shrimp, crab, or fish, mixed with cream cheese, herbs, and lemon zest.

Sauces

• Alfredo sauce:Prepare a creamy Alfredo sauce using butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings.
• Marinara sauce:Use a classic tomato-based marinara sauce for a tangy and savory flavor.
• Béchamel sauce:Make a rich and velvety béchamel sauce with butter, flour, milk, and nutmeg.

Toppings

• Parmesan cheese:Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the shells before baking for a golden-brown crust.
• Breadcrumbs:Combine breadcrumbs with butter, herbs, and Parmesan cheese for a crispy topping.
• Mozzarella cheese:Add shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the shells for a gooey and melted texture.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your dining experience with these delectable serving suggestions for your chicken stuffed shells. From tantalizing side dishes to vibrant garnishes, we’ll guide you through creating a memorable meal that will impress your taste buds and delight your guests.

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your stuffed shells into a centerpiece of your table, leaving a lasting impression on your palate.

Side Dishes

Complement your stuffed shells with an array of delectable side dishes that enhance the flavors and textures. Consider a crisp and refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing to balance the richness of the shells. Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers, add a vibrant splash of color and a burst of vitamins.

For a comforting touch, serve a creamy mashed potato or a warm and fluffy bread roll to soak up the delectable sauce.

Garnishes

Garnishes play a vital role in elevating the presentation and enhancing the flavors of your stuffed shells. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a touch of vibrancy and a burst of herbal aroma. Grated Parmesan cheese provides a salty and umami kick, while a drizzle of olive oil adds a touch of richness and sheen.

For a touch of sweetness, consider garnishing with diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange your stuffed shells in a visually appealing manner to create a stunning centerpiece for your table. Place them in a shallow baking dish or individual ramekins, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Garnish generously with your chosen toppings and drizzle with any remaining sauce.

If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty meal, consider trying out our chicken stuffed shells recipe. These delectable shells are filled with a savory mixture of chicken, vegetables, and cheese. And if you’re looking for something a bit different, you might also enjoy our hamburger helper lasagna . It’s a delicious and easy-to-make casserole that’s perfect for a family dinner.

But don’t forget to come back and try our chicken stuffed shells recipe for a delightful culinary experience.

Consider adding a sprig of fresh herbs or a lemon wedge for an extra touch of elegance.

Nutritional Information: Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe

Chicken stuffed shells are a hearty and flavorful dish, but they can also be high in calories and fat. However, there are ways to make this dish healthier without sacrificing taste.

The following table provides nutritional information for a single serving of chicken stuffed shells:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15 grams
• Protein: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams
• Fiber: 5 grams
• Sodium: 500 milligrams

As you can see, chicken stuffed shells are a good source of protein and fiber. However, they are also high in calories, fat, and sodium. If you are concerned about your health, you can make some changes to the recipe to make it healthier.

Tips for Making Healthier Chicken Stuffed Shells

• Use whole-wheat pasta shells instead of white pasta shells.
• Use lean ground chicken instead of regular ground chicken.
• Use low-fat cheese instead of regular cheese.
• Add more vegetables to the filling, such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Bake the chicken stuffed shells instead of frying them.

By following these tips, you can make a delicious and healthy chicken stuffed shells dish that the whole family will enjoy.

Wrap-Up

As you savor the last bite of your homemade chicken stuffed shells, take pride in your culinary accomplishment. This dish is not merely a meal; it’s a testament to your passion for cooking and your ability to create something truly special.

Remember, the kitchen is your canvas, and you are the artist. Continue to explore, experiment, and create dishes that bring joy to your table.