If you love pasta but want to elevate your dish beyond the usual spaghetti night, Chicken Scampi Stuffed Pasta Shells are the answer. This dish takes all the classic flavors of shrimp scampi garlic, butter, lemon, and white wine but replaces the seafood with juicy, well-seasoned chicken. The result? A rich, cheesy, and satisfying meal that feels restaurant-worthy yet is easy enough for a home-cooked dinner. The beauty of this recipe is in its versatility. It can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. The jumbo pasta shells hold the flavorful chicken mixture beautifully, while the creamy scampi sauce ties everything together. Topped with melty cheese and baked until golden, this dish is an instant comfort food classic that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs. chicken tenders, diced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 oz. jumbo pasta shells
- 3 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, cheddar, mozzarella, etc.)
Chicken Seasoning:
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Scampi Sauce:
- 6 tablespoons softened butter, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp reserved chicken seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 2/3 cup chicken stock
- 1/3 cup pasta water
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Cook the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken seasoning ingredients (reserving 1 tsp). Toss the diced chicken in 1 tablespoon olive oil and seasoning mix until well coated. Heat a pan over medium-high heat with 2 tablespoons olive oil and cook the chicken until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a bowl and cover.
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Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/3 cup of the pasta water before draining.
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Prepare the Scampi Sauce: In the same pan used for chicken, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Pour in the white wine and let it reduce for 5 minutes. Whisk in remaining butter, red pepper flakes, reserved seasoning, chicken stock, lemon zest and juice, heavy cream, Parmesan, and parsley. Let the sauce thicken, then stir in reserved pasta water. Simmer until slightly thickened.
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Stuff the Shells & Bake: Toss cooked chicken with 1.5 cups of shredded cheese. In a greased 9×13 baking dish, spread 1/2 cup of the scampi sauce on the bottom. Stuff each pasta shell with the chicken mixture and arrange them in the dish. Pour remaining sauce evenly over the shells and top with the rest of the shredded cheese.
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Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 580 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Inspiration Behind Chicken Scampi Stuffed Shells
Traditional shrimp scampi is a well-loved dish that features succulent shrimp in a garlic butter and white wine sauce, often served over pasta or rice. However, this variation swaps out shrimp for tender, juicy chicken, creating a dish that is equally flavorful but more accessible to those who prefer poultry over seafood. While scampi typically pairs with long pasta like linguine or spaghetti, this recipe takes a unique approach by stuffing the savory chicken filling into jumbo pasta shells and baking them in a rich, creamy sauce.
The result? A dish that is visually stunning, bursting with bold flavors, and incredibly satisfying. Each bite offers the perfect balance of garlic-infused butter, tangy lemon zest, and the deep umami of Parmesan cheese, all wrapped in the comforting embrace of pasta and melted cheese.
Why This Recipe Works
There are several reasons why Chicken Scampi Stuffed Pasta Shells stand out as a must-try recipe:
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A Unique Twist on a Classic Dish
Instead of serving chicken scampi over noodles in a traditional way, this recipe transforms it into an elevated baked pasta dish. The filling stays nestled inside the pasta shells, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor. -
A Well-Balanced Flavor Profile
The combination of garlic, butter, white wine, and lemon juice creates a depth of flavor that is both rich and refreshing. The acidity from the lemon balances the richness of the butter and heavy cream, while the white wine enhances the dish’s complexity. -
Make-Ahead Friendly
This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests without the last-minute hassle. -
A Crowd-Pleasing Dish
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a potluck event, this dish is sure to impress. The golden, bubbly cheese topping and the aromatic garlic butter sauce make it irresistible.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Scampi Stuffed Shells
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Use High-Quality White Wine
Since white wine is a key component of the scampi sauce, choose a dry variety such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay. Avoid overly sweet wines, as they may alter the intended flavor profile of the dish. -
Don’t Overcook the Pasta Shells
Cook the pasta shells until they are just al dente. Since they will continue to cook in the oven, boiling them too long beforehand may cause them to become too soft and fall apart. -
Season the Chicken Generously
The seasoning blend used for the chicken adds depth to the overall dish. Make sure to evenly coat the chicken before cooking to ensure that every bite is well-seasoned. -
Save Some Pasta Water
Reserved pasta water is used to slightly thicken the sauce and help it adhere to the pasta. It’s a simple trick that makes a noticeable difference in the final dish. -
Adjust the Heat Level
If you enjoy a little spice, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes. For a milder version, reduce or omit them entirely.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ways to customize it to suit different preferences and dietary needs:
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Swap Chicken for Shrimp
If you want to stick to a more traditional scampi preparation, you can replace the chicken with shrimp. Simply sauté the shrimp in garlic butter and seasonings before stuffing the shells. -
Make It Vegetarian
Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a combination of roasted vegetables for a delicious meatless version. -
Use a Different Pasta Shape
If you can’t find jumbo pasta shells, try using manicotti or cannelloni as an alternative. You can also layer the filling and sauce with cooked lasagna noodles for a scampi-inspired lasagna. -
Try a Lighter Version
For a slightly lighter take, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also use Greek yogurt or ricotta as part of the filling for added creaminess with fewer calories.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Scampi Stuffed Pasta Shells are a complete meal on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can make for an even more satisfying dining experience. Here are a few ideas:
- Garlic Bread: The perfect way to soak up any leftover scampi sauce.
- Green Salad: A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts make great accompaniments.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the pasta shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to prevent the sauce from drying out.
For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to two months. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion:
Chicken Scampi Stuffed Pasta Shells are a delicious fusion of creamy comfort food and bold, zesty flavors. This dish is an excellent way to enjoy the classic taste of scampi in a new and exciting form. The combination of tender chicken, rich scampi sauce, and gooey melted cheese makes it an instant favorite for anyone who loves pasta.
Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. With its make-ahead convenience, customizable ingredients, and restaurant-quality taste, Chicken Scampi Stuffed Pasta Shells deserve a place in your recipe collection. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds and your dinner guests will thank you!
