Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells Tasty Family Meal

If you’re looking for a fun and tasty family meal, try Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells! This dish combines two classics into one easy-to-make recipe. You’ll love the creamy cheese and savory chicken all wrapped in tender pasta shells. In this post, I’ll guide you through the simple steps, share helpful tips, and offer some tasty variations. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this delicious dinner!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

To make Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells, you will need:

– 20 jumbo pasta shells

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 1 cup ricotta cheese

– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated (divided)

– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (divided)

– 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for topping)

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Kitchen Tools Needed

You will need a few kitchen tools to make this dish:

– A large pot for boiling pasta

– A mixing bowl for the filling

– A 9×13 inch baking dish

– Aluminum foil to cover the dish

– A spoon for mixing and stuffing

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells provides a good balance of protein and carbs. Here’s a rough estimate per serving:

– Calories: 450

– Protein: 30g

– Carbohydrates: 40g

– Fat: 20g

– Fiber: 2g

– Sodium: 800mg

This dish packs flavor and warmth, making it a great family meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Overview

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gets it ready for your stuffed shells. Next, boil 20 jumbo pasta shells in salted water. Cook them until they are al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain the shells gently and let them cool. You should have time to prepare the filling while the shells cool.

Cooking Instructions

In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken with 1 cup of ricotta cheese. Add half a cup of mozzarella and half a cup of Parmesan cheese. Then, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until it’s creamy and well combined. This filling is key to the dish’s flavor.

Baking Directions

Pour about 1/2 cup of marinara sauce into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom. Now, take each cooled pasta shell and fill it with about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in the dish with the open side facing up. Drizzle more marinara sauce over the shells, covering them well.

Next, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake the shells for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Once done, let the shells cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. This adds a nice touch and fresh flavor. Enjoy your tasty family meal!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Filling

To make the filling burst with flavor, use shredded chicken. Cook it ahead and let it cool first. Mixing in ricotta gives a creamy base. Add half of the mozzarella and Parmesan for a cheesy kick. Don’t forget garlic powder and Italian herbs for taste. Salt and pepper help bring everything together. Mix until smooth, and you’ll have a filling your family will love.

Cooking Pasta Safely

When cooking jumbo pasta shells, follow the package directions. Boil water and add salt for flavor. Cook until al dente, which means firm but not hard. This helps the shells hold their shape when you stuff them. After cooking, drain the shells gently. Rinse them briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside to cool so they are easier to handle.

Cheese Melting Tips

For that perfect cheesy top, use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan. Grate the cheese fresh for the best melt. Layer the cheese thick over the marinara sauce. This helps it brown nicely in the oven. Cover the dish with foil for the first part of baking. This keeps the moisture in. Remove the foil later to make the cheese bubbly and golden. Enjoy a cheesy crust that everyone will love!

Variations

Vegetarian Options

You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Instead of chicken, use cooked spinach or mushrooms. Add more ricotta cheese to make a creamy filling. You can also mix in chopped bell peppers or zucchini. These veggies bring great flavor and texture.

Gluten-Free Substitutes

If you need gluten-free options, choose gluten-free jumbo pasta shells. They cook similarly to regular shells. For the filling, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This will help hold the mixture together. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost flavor, try adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to your filling. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick. You can also mix in sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a twist. Top with fresh basil after baking for a fresh taste.

Storage Information

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftover Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells, first let them cool down. Place the shells in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to avoid drying out.

Reheating Tips

When you are ready to eat the leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish. Add a splash of marinara sauce on top to keep them moist. Cover the dish with foil to keep the heat in. Bake for about 20 minutes or until warm. You can also use the microwave. Just heat for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to freeze the stuffed shells, let them cool completely. Place them in a freezer-safe container or a freezer bag. You can stack them, but add parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Label the container with the date. They will stay tasty for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can use different types of cheese. Feel free to swap mozzarella with provolone or gouda. For a sharper taste, try using aged cheddar. Just remember, the cheese must melt well. Mixing cheeses can create a fun flavor twist. Experiment with what you have at home.

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers will last about three to four days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Frozen stuffed shells can last for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw them before reheating.

Can I prep the shells in advance?

Yes, you can prep the shells in advance. Cook the pasta shells and fill them with the mixture. Store them in the fridge for up to a day. This saves time on busy nights. Just add the sauce and cheese before baking. It makes dinner quick and easy.

This post covered key details to make a great dish. You learned about the needed ingredients, tools, and nutrition facts. We shared clear steps for prep, cooking, and baking. Plus, I gave tips to perfect your filling and safely handle pasta. You can explore tasty variations and learn how to store leftovers properly.

With this knowledge, you can create a dish that pleases everyone. Enjoy cooking and experimenting with your own idea