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Cheesy Chicken Shells

Cheesy Chicken Shells
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Cheesy Chicken Shells is a comforting and creamy baked pasta dish featuring tender shredded chicken, a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese, and large pasta shells filled with a rich cheesy mixture. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prepping, this versatile recipe is easy to customize, reheats well, and is loved by the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked shredded or diced chicken breast
  • 20 large pasta shells
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta Shells: Boil the large pasta shells in salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the Chicken Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken with softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and evenly combined.
  3. Stuff the Shells: Carefully fill each cooked shell with the cheesy chicken mixture, filling generously but without overstuffing.
  4. Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, warm the chicken broth over medium heat. Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with a touch of salt and pepper.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Spread a thin layer of the cheese sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the shells and sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top, if desired. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot for maximum flavor and comfort.

Notes

  • Avoid overcooking pasta shells so they hold their shape when stuffed and baked.
  • Use softened cream cheese for a creamier, smoother filling.
  • Always spread sauce on the baking dish base to prevent sticking.
  • Use a blend of melting cheeses for the best flavor and texture.
  • Let the baked shells rest for five minutes before serving to help them settle.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy chicken shells, baked pasta, comfort food, easy weeknight dinner, creamy chicken recipe, family-friendly pasta

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/cheesy-chicken-shells/