Imagine the rich aroma of savory stuffing, tender chicken, and creamy sauce baking together in the oven, filling your kitchen with warmth and comfort. These Chicken and Stuffing Stuffed Shells combine the best of a hearty casserole with the irresistible appeal of pasta, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, this dish is both easy to make and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re feeding the whole family or making a batch to freeze for later, these stuffed shells deliver home-cooked comfort in every bite. Serve them with a fresh side salad or roasted veggies for a complete and delicious meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells, cooked and drained
- 2 boxes chicken-flavored stuffing mix, cooked
- 2 cups cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken breast
- ½ cup chopped mushrooms, sautéed (optional)
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup skim milk
- ½ cup water
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the stuffing according to the package instructions.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and set the mixture aside.
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
- Fill each cooked shell with the chicken and stuffing mixture and arrange them in the prepared dish, open side facing down.
- In a saucepan, heat the cream of chicken soup, milk, and water over medium heat, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
- Bake uncovered for 35 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the shells.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 739 kcal | Servings: 6
Chicken and Stuffing Stuffed Shells – A Comfort Food Classic
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a rich and hearty baked pasta meal. Chicken and Stuffing Stuffed Shells are the perfect blend of home-cooked goodness and convenience, making them a family favorite for busy weeknights, meal prep, and even special occasions. With tender jumbo pasta shells filled with flavorful stuffing and shredded chicken, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish is guaranteed to bring warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table.
The Perfect Combination of Flavors and Textures
What makes this dish stand out is the delightful combination of flavors and textures. The pasta shells provide a soft and slightly chewy contrast to the hearty filling of stuffing and shredded chicken, while the creamy sauce envelops everything in a luscious, comforting embrace. The addition of melted Swiss cheese on top adds a slight nuttiness and a golden, bubbly finish that makes the dish irresistible.
The stuffing mix, usually associated with holiday dinners, adds an herbaceous and savory depth to the filling. Instead of reserving stuffing just for Thanksgiving, this dish allows you to enjoy its deliciousness any time of the year in a new and exciting way. The use of rotisserie chicken makes preparation even easier, allowing for a quick yet flavorful meal without the hassle of cooking chicken from scratch.
Why This Dish is a Meal Prep Dream
One of the best things about Chicken and Stuffing Stuffed Shells is how well it fits into a meal prep routine. You can make a large batch, freeze individual portions, and have a ready-to-bake meal whenever you need it. Unlike some pasta dishes that can become mushy when frozen, these stuffed shells hold up beautifully, retaining their texture and flavor.
To freeze, simply prepare the stuffed shells and lay them out on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, all you have to do is thaw and bake, making this dish an excellent option for busy families, new parents, or anyone who wants to have a homemade meal ready at a moment’s notice.
Customizing the Recipe to Suit Your Preferences
Another reason why this dish is such a favorite is its versatility. While the base recipe is already delicious, you can easily modify it to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
- Cheese Variations: If Swiss cheese isn’t your favorite, try using mozzarella for a milder, gooier option, or Parmesan for a sharper, more distinct flavor.
- Protein Options: While shredded rotisserie chicken is the go-to, you can also use leftover turkey (perfect for post-holiday meals), ground chicken, or even a vegetarian alternative like mushrooms and spinach.
- Stuffing Choices: Traditional chicken-flavored stuffing is great, but cornbread stuffing can add a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
- Additional Veggies: Adding sautéed onions, carrots, celery, or even spinach can boost the nutritional value and bring extra flavor to the dish.
This recipe also makes an excellent dish for potlucks or family gatherings. It’s easy to prepare in advance, can be transported easily, and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal
Chicken and Stuffing Stuffed Shells are incredibly satisfying on their own, but pairing them with complementary sides can take the meal to another level. Some excellent pairing ideas include:
- A Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts add a nutritious and colorful element to your plate.
- Garlic Bread: A side of crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Cranberry Sauce: If you want to lean into the holiday-inspired flavors of the dish, a small serving of cranberry sauce on the side adds a delightful touch of sweetness.
A Comfort Food Classic with a Modern Twist
While stuffed shells are a classic Italian-inspired dish, this version takes a creative twist by incorporating the familiar flavors of chicken and stuffing. It bridges the gap between a traditional pasta dish and a comforting holiday meal, making it both nostalgic and exciting at the same time.
What sets this recipe apart is its ability to be both indulgent and practical. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a special treat, yet it’s easy enough to make on a regular basis. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up leftover stuffing, create a freezer-friendly meal plan, or simply indulge in a creamy, cheesy pasta bake, Chicken and Stuffing Stuffed Shells fit the bill.
Conclusion:
Chicken and Stuffing Stuffed Shells are the perfect blend of convenience and comfort. They combine simple ingredients to create a flavorful, filling, and satisfying meal that works for any occasion. Whether you make them for a cozy family dinner, prepare them ahead for meal prep, or bring them to a potluck, they’re sure to be a hit.
With so many ways to customize and serve this dish, it’s easy to make it your own. Plus, the ability to freeze and reheat makes it one of the most practical and delicious meals you can have in your rotation.