Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for dinner. This dish is a combination of tender chicken, creamy ricotta cheese, and flavorful seasonings, all stuffed inside jumbo pasta shells and baked to perfection. The result is a cheesy and comforting meal that is sure to satisfy any appetite.
To make Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells, you will need a few key ingredients, including jumbo pasta shells, shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, and cream of chicken soup. You will also need some basic kitchen tools and equipment, such as a large pot for boiling water, a mixing bowl, and a baking dish. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that your whole family will love.
Overall, Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells is a great option for a filling and flavorful dinner. Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. With its combination of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and savory seasonings, it is the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Key Takeaways
- Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for dinner.
- The dish requires a few key ingredients and basic kitchen tools and equipment.
- With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that your whole family will love.
Overview of Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells
Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells is a delicious and easy-to-make dinner recipe that combines tender pasta shells, creamy ricotta cheese, and flavorful shredded chicken. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or for entertaining guests.
To make this recipe, the pasta shells are boiled until al dente, then rinsed in cold water and set aside. The shredded chicken is combined with ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, parsley, and salt & pepper to taste. The cream of chicken soup is heated in a medium saucepan and whisked with evaporated milk until mixed.
The chicken and cheese mixture is then stuffed into the pasta shells and placed in a baking dish. The shells are topped with pasta sauce and mozzarella cheese, then baked in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells is a versatile recipe that can be customized to fit any taste preference. For example, some people like to add spinach or mushrooms to the chicken and cheese mixture for added flavor and nutrition. Others prefer to use ground beef or turkey instead of chicken.
Overall, Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells is a satisfying and delicious dinner option that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Required Ingredients
To make Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells, the following ingredients are required:
- Jumbo pasta shells
- Shredded chicken
- Ricotta cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic powder
- Parsley
- Salt
- Pepper
- Cream of chicken soup
- Evaporated milk
- Pasta sauce
- Mozzarella cheese
The jumbo pasta shells are the base of this recipe. They are boiled until al dente and then stuffed with a mixture of shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. The mixture is then spooned into each shell.
The creamy sauce is made by heating cream of chicken soup in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Evaporated milk is then whisked in until mixed. This sauce is then poured over the stuffed shells before baking.
Pasta sauce and mozzarella cheese are also used in this recipe. A thin layer of pasta sauce is spread on the bottom of a baking dish before placing the stuffed shells on top. The remaining pasta sauce is then poured over the shells before topping with mozzarella cheese.
Overall, these ingredients come together to create a delicious and satisfying dinner that is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Necessary Kitchen Tools and Equipment
To make Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells, you will need a few basic kitchen tools and equipment. These include:
1. Large Pot
A large pot is necessary to boil the pasta shells until they are al dente. It’s recommended to use a pot that is at least 5 quarts in size, so you have enough room to cook the shells without them sticking together.
2. Mixing Bowls
You will need at least two mixing bowls – one for the chicken mixture and one for the sauce. It’s best to use bowls that are large enough to hold all of the ingredients without overflowing.
3. Baking Dish
A 9×13 inch baking dish is the perfect size for this recipe. It’s recommended to use a glass or ceramic dish, as they distribute heat evenly and prevent the shells from burning.
4. Whisk
A whisk is necessary to combine the cream of chicken soup and evaporated milk for the sauce. It’s best to use a whisk with a long handle to prevent splashing.
5. Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements are important for this recipe. You will need measuring cups and spoons to measure out ingredients such as shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, parsley, and salt and pepper.
6. Cooking Spray
Cooking spray is necessary to prevent the shells from sticking to the baking dish. It’s recommended to use a cooking spray that is specifically designed for baking.
By having these necessary kitchen tools and equipment on hand, you will be well-prepared to make Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells for a delicious dinner.
Preparation Steps
Cooking the Chicken
To start preparing the Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells, cook the chicken until it is fully cooked through. This can be done by boiling, grilling, or baking the chicken breasts. Once cooked, shred the chicken into small pieces using a fork or a food processor.
Preparing the Shells
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the pasta shells. Boil the shells until they are al dente, then rinse them in cold water to cool them down and prevent sticking. Set the shells aside until they are ready to be filled.
Mixing the Cheese Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients until they are evenly incorporated. Add the shredded chicken to the cheese mixture and stir until it is evenly distributed.
Once all the preparation steps are complete, it is time to stuff the shells with the cheesy chicken mixture. Fill each shell with about 2 tablespoons of the filling and place them in a 9-inch x 13-inch baking dish. Cover the shells with your favorite pasta sauce and bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 35-45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Assembling the Dish
Stuffing the Shells
To stuff the shells, start by preheating the oven to 350°F. Then, boil the pasta shells according to the package directions, just until al dente. Drain the water then rinse the shells in cold water to cool them down and prevent sticking. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients until well combined.
Next, fill each pasta shell with about 2 tablespoons of the filling. Use a spoon to stuff the filling into the shells, making sure to pack it in tightly. Place the stuffed shells in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Layering the Sauce
To layer the sauce, pour 1 cup of the sauce into the bottom of the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Then, place the stuffed shells on top of the sauce in a single layer. Pour the remaining sauce over the top of the shells, making sure to cover them completely.
Finally, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the shells. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve the cheesy chicken stuffed shells hot, garnished with chopped parsley or basil if desired. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home, or for entertaining guests.
Baking Instructions
Preheating the Oven
Before baking the Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells, it is important to preheat the oven to the correct temperature. Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat before placing the stuffed shells in the oven. This ensures that the shells cook evenly and thoroughly.
Baking Time and Temperature
Bake the stuffed shells in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the shells are slightly browned. To check if the shells are fully cooked, insert a toothpick into the center of the shells. If it comes out clean, the shells are done.
Once the shells are fully cooked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set and makes it easier to cut and serve the shells.
It is important to note that baking times may vary depending on the type of oven used and the size of the shells. Keep an eye on the shells while they are baking to ensure they do not overcook or burn.
By following these baking instructions, anyone can create a delicious and satisfying dinner of Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells are a delicious and hearty meal that can be served on their own or paired with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions to help you create a complete meal:
Side Dishes
- Garlic Bread: Serve Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can use store-bought garlic bread or make your own by spreading garlic butter on slices of French bread and toasting them in the oven.
- Green Salad: Add some fresh greens to your meal by serving Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells with a side salad. Use a mix of lettuce, cucumber, tomato, and onion, and dress it with your favorite vinaigrette.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables are a great side dish that complements the flavors of Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells. You can roast any vegetable you like, such as broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Beverage Pairings
- Red Wine: Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells pair well with a full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. The tannins in the wine help to balance the richness of the cheese and chicken.
- Iced Tea: If you prefer a non-alcoholic beverage, iced tea is a refreshing choice that complements the flavors of the dish. You can add a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint to give it some extra flavor.
- Sparkling Water: Sparkling water is a great choice if you want something fizzy to drink. It cleanses the palate and helps to cut through the richness of the cheese and chicken.
With these serving suggestions, you can create a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
Pairing with Side Dishes
When it comes to serving Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells for dinner, it’s essential to pair them with the right side dishes. The right side dish can enhance the flavors of the main dish and make for a well-rounded meal. Here are a few side dishes that pair well with Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells:
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a classic side dish that pairs well with any Italian-inspired meal. The buttery texture and cheesy topping create a delightful contrast, enhancing the dining experience. The rich, savory notes of the garlic and cheese meld seamlessly with the flavors of the stuffed shells, making for a satisfying meal.
Caesar Salad
A Caesar salad is another classic side dish that pairs well with Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells. The crisp, fresh lettuce and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy flavors of the stuffed shells. You can also add some croutons and Parmesan cheese to the salad for an extra crunch.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans, are a healthy and flavorful side dish that pairs well with Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells. Roasting the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a crispy texture that complements the creamy filling of the stuffed shells.
Bruschetta
Bruschetta is an Italian toast with a tomato topping that pairs well with Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells. The fresh, tangy flavors of the tomatoes and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy flavors of the stuffed shells. Plus, the crunchy texture of the toast adds a nice contrast to the creamy filling.
Overall, there are many side dishes that pair well with Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells. From classic garlic bread to refreshing Caesar salad, there is a side dish for every taste preference.
Storage and Reheating Tips
After enjoying the Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells for dinner, it’s important to store any leftovers properly to maintain their freshness and flavor. Here are a few tips on how to store and reheat the dish:
Storage
- Allow the stuffed shells to cool down to room temperature before storing them.
- Place the leftovers in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap.
- Store the stuffed shells in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover it with foil.
- Bake the dish for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the stuffed shells in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
It’s important to note that reheating the stuffed shells too many times can cause them to become dry and lose their flavor. Therefore, it’s recommended to only reheat the leftovers once or twice.
By following these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the delicious Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells for multiple meals without compromising on their taste and texture.