Best Easy Chicken and Stuffing Stuffed Shells Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting meal that is quick and easy to make, then this chicken and stuffing stuffed shells recipe is perfect for you. Combining the flavors of tender chicken, savory stuffing, and gooey cheese, these shells are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
To make this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 package jumbo pasta shells
– 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
– 1 cup prepared stuffing
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, prepared stuffing, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken and stuffing mixture and place them in the greased baking dish.
5. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
FAQs
Q1. Can I use ground chicken instead of shredded chicken?
A1. Yes, you can substitute ground chicken for shredded chicken in this recipe.
Q2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
A2. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or provolone, to suit your taste.
Q3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A3. Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake.
Q4. Can I freeze the leftovers?
A4. Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Q5. Can I use store-bought stuffing mix?
A5. Absolutely! Using store-bought stuffing mix will save you time and still yield delicious results.
Q6. Can I use a different type of pasta?
A6. While jumbo pasta shells work best for this recipe, you can try using other large pasta shells like conchiglioni or manicotti.
Q7. Can I add vegetables to the filling?
A7. Certainly! Feel free to add cooked vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the chicken and stuffing mixture.
Q8. Can I use a different sauce instead of marinara?
A8. Yes, you can substitute marinara sauce with alfredo sauce or any other sauce of your choice.
Q9. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A9. Yes, you can omit the chicken and use vegetable stuffing or other vegetarian alternatives.
Q10. Can I add spices or herbs to the recipe?
A10. Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to enhance the flavor of the dish.
Q11. Can I serve this as a side dish?
A11. While this recipe can be enjoyed on its own, it can also be served as a side dish alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.