Amazing Chicken Stuffed Shells

🍗🧀🍝😋

Amazing Chicken Stuffed Shells is a delectable Italian-American dish that combines tender pasta shells filled with a savory mixture of chicken, cheese, and herbs, all bathed in a rich tomato sauce. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.

History:
The exact origins of Chicken Stuffed Shells are unclear, but it’s a variation of traditional stuffed pasta dishes like manicotti and cannelloni, which have been enjoyed in Italy for centuries. The American twist on this dish likely emerged in the mid-20th century as Italian immigrants adapted their recipes to local ingredients and preferences.

Components:

• Large Pasta Shells: These are the shells that will hold the chicken and cheese filling.
• Chicken: Usually cooked and shredded or diced, providing a protein-rich filling.
• Cheese Mixture: A combination of ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and seasonings.
• Tomato Sauce: A flavorful tomato-based sauce to cover and bake the stuffed shells.
• Herbs and Seasonings: Commonly, basil, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Steps to Prepare Chicken Stuffed Shells:

1. Cook the Pasta Shells: Follow the package instructions for cooking the pasta shells until they are al dente. Drain and set them aside.

2. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded or diced cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, grated mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, a beaten egg, chopped fresh basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a creamy and flavorful filling.

3. Stuff the Shells: Take each cooked pasta shell and fill it generously with the chicken and cheese mixture. Use a spoon or your fingers to stuff them evenly.

4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

5. Layer and Sauce: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, and then pour the remaining tomato sauce over them, ensuring they are well covered.

6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the shells are heated through.

7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the foil, sprinkle with extra grated Parmesan and chopped basil, if desired. Serve the Chicken Stuffed Shells hot, and enjoy!

Preparation Time:
The total time needed to prepare Chicken Stuffed Shells typically ranges from 60 to 75 minutes, including preparation and baking time. It may vary depending on your cooking skills and the specifics of your recipe.

This dish is a crowd-pleaser, and its combination of flavors and textures makes it truly amazing! 🍗🧀🍝😋

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Chicken Stuffed Shells:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):

• Calories: 400-500 calories
• Protein: 25-30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 2-4 grams
• Sugars: 3-5 grams
• Fat: 18-22 grams
• Saturated Fat: 8-10 grams
• Cholesterol: 70-90 milligrams
• Sodium: 800-1000 milligrams
• Vitamin A: 10-15% of daily recommended intake
• Vitamin C: 8-10% of daily recommended intake
• Calcium: 20-25% of daily recommended intake
• Iron: 10-15% of daily recommended intake

Health Information:

1. Protein: Chicken Stuffed Shells are a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function.

2. Moderate Calories: The calorie content can vary based on portion size and ingredients used. It’s important to enjoy this dish in moderation, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.

3. Carbohydrates: The pasta shells provide carbohydrates for energy, but be mindful of portion sizes if you’re concerned about carb intake.

4. Fiber: While this dish doesn’t have a high fiber content, you can increase the fiber by serving it with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

5. Fats: The dish contains some saturated fats from cheese. Consider using lower-fat cheese options or reducing the amount of cheese if you’re concerned about saturated fat intake.

6. Sodium: Tomato sauce and cheese can contribute to the sodium content. If you have high blood pressure or are watching your sodium intake, choose lower-sodium tomato sauce or make your own sauce with less salt.

7. Vitamins and Minerals: Chicken Stuffed Shells provide essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron, but they are not a primary source. A balanced diet with a variety of foods is key to meeting your nutritional needs.

8. Balance and Moderation: Like many comfort foods, Chicken Stuffed Shells are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Consider serving them with a side of vegetables or a salad to increase the nutritional value of your meal.

Remember that specific nutritional values can vary based on the recipe and ingredients used, so it’s a good practice to check labels and use a nutrition calculator if you have specific dietary requirements or restrictions.