- Salt and Pepper - As Needed (Keywords: Salt, Black Pepper)
- Italian Seasoning - A Sprinkle (Keyword: Italian Seasoning)
- Uncooked Pasta Shells - 12 Count (Keywords: Pasta Shells, Uncooked)
- Marinara Sauce - For Serving (Keyword: Marinara Sauce)
- Olive Oil - For Cooking (Keyword: Olive Oil)
- Butter - Optional (For a richer flavor) (Keyword: Butter)
(Note: Including keywords in the formatting can help improve the visibility and relevance of your recipe content when optimized for search engines.)
Steps
### Chicken Stuffed Shells Pasta Recipe: A Flavorful Delight
Chicken stuffed shells are a delightful twist on traditional lasagna that's perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. This recipe combines tender chicken with creamy ricotta cheese and flavorful seasonings, all nestled inside pasta shells before being baked to perfection.
- Add linguine or fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain pasta and set aside.
2. **Prepare Chicken Mixture:**
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and let it cool slightly.
- In another small pan, cook onion and garlic in 1 teaspoon of olive oil until softened.
3. **Mix Ingredients:**
- In a large bowl, combine cooled chicken with ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, dried basil, and oregano.
- Gently fold in the sautéed onions and garlic mixture.
4. **Assemble Stuffed Shells:**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place a pasta shell on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken ricotta mixture into each shell.
- Carefully roll up each shell and place it in a large baking dish.
5. **Layer Sauce:**
- Pour tomato sauce over the stuffed shells to cover them evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top for added flavor.
6. **Bake:**
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, then bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the shells are well-baked and the cheese is golden brown.
7. **Serve:**
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately with a side of al dente pasta.
#### Tips & Variations:
- For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture.
- Swap out chicken for ground turkey or beef for different flavor profiles.
- Add chopped spinach or kale to the ricotta cheese mixture for added nutrients.
This recipe not only offers a delightful blend of flavors but also provides a family-friendly dish that's easy to prepare. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Stuffed Shells Pasta!
#### SEO-Friendly Keywords:
Chicken stuffed shells, pasta shells, chicken and ricotta pasta, stuffed shell recipes, chicken lasagna, creamy chicken pasta, family dinner ideas, Italian cuisine, easy meal prep, oven-baked pasta.