Chicken Scampi Stuffed Pasta Shells

If comfort food and a gourmet Italian dinner had a delicious baby, it would be these Chicken Scampi Stuffed Pasta Shells. Imagine tender pasta shells filled with juicy, garlicky chicken and creamy cheese, all nestled in a buttery scampi sauce that’s kissed with lemon and herbs. Sounds dreamy, right? This dish is like a big warm hug in casserole form fancy enough for guests, cozy enough for a weeknight, and just downright irresistible. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every single bite.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Scampi Stuffed Pasta Shells
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Works beautifully as a hearty main course or as an impressive potluck dish.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples and affordable proteins.
Quick and Easy: Despite its elegance, it’s surprisingly simple to put together.
Customizable: Swap in shrimp, use a different cheese blend, or add extra veggies.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Chicken Scampi Stuffed Pasta Shells

Here’s what makes this dish a showstopper each component brings bold, comforting flavor to the table:

Jumbo Pasta Shells: The perfect little pockets for holding all that cheesy, savory filling.
Cooked Chicken Breast: Tender, shredded or diced chicken seasoned with garlic and herbs.
Garlic: Loads of it! Because chicken scampi is all about that bold, garlicky kick.
Butter: Rich, creamy butter forms the base of the luscious scampi sauce.
Olive Oil: Adds depth and richness to the sauté and sauce.
Lemon Juice: Fresh, tangy brightness that cuts through the richness.
Italian Seasoning: A medley of herbs that brings warmth and complexity.
Ricotta Cheese: Creamy and mild, it adds a luscious texture to the filling.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melty and gooey, perfect for binding and topping.
Parmesan Cheese: Nutty and salty for that savory punch.
Parsley: For a pop of freshness and color.
Salt and Pepper: The essential flavor enhancers.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures even cooking and gives your dish the right texture.
Cook the Shells: Boil the jumbo shells until al dente. Be careful not to overcook they’ll continue to soften in the oven. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine cooked chicken, ricotta, half the mozzarella, a bit of Parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Make the Scampi Sauce: In a skillet, melt butter with olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
Stuff the Shells: Spoon the filling into each cooked shell and arrange them in a greased baking dish.
Assemble the Dish: Pour the scampi sauce over the stuffed shells. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
Cook to Perfection: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Finishing Touches: Let cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle. Sprinkle with extra parsley if desired.
Serve and Enjoy: Dish it up warm and watch those cheesy strands stretch with every bite yum!

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: Approximately 450–500 kcal
(Note: values may vary slightly depending on ingredients used)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve Chicken Scampi Stuffed Pasta Shells

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette
• Pair with garlic bread or focaccia to mop up that delicious sauce
• A glass of chilled white wine (like Pinot Grigio) makes a perfect pairing
• Add roasted vegetables for a full Italian-style spread
• Great with sautéed spinach or asparagus on the side

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Use rotisserie chicken to save time
• Make it ahead and store in the fridge until ready to bake
• Freeze leftovers in individual portions for easy future meals
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat in the sauce
• Use fresh lemon juice it really brightens the dish

FAQ’s

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
   Yes! It’s a great time-saver and adds extra flavor.
2. Can this be made ahead of time?
   Absolutely. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
3. Can I freeze it?
   Yes, this freezes well either before or after baking. Just wrap tightly.
4. What’s the best cheese blend for this?
   Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan is a great combo but feel free to mix in provolone or fontina for extra richness.
5. How do I reheat leftovers?
   Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
6. Can I add vegetables to the filling?
   Sure! Spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or chopped artichokes would be great additions.
7. What pasta can I use instead of shells?
   Manicotti or cannelloni tubes work too, but shells are easiest to fill.
8. Is this recipe spicy?
   Not at all, but you can add red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.
9. What does scampi mean in this context?
   Scampi here refers to the buttery, garlicky lemon sauce no shrimp involved!
10. How long will leftovers last?
    Stored properly, they’ll keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Conclusion

Chicken Scampi Stuffed Pasta Shells are one of those dishes that feel like a little celebration every time you make them. They’re rich, flavorful, and packed with cozy vibes that everyone at the table will love. Whether you’re serving up something special or just treating yourself to a comforting homemade meal, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. So go ahead, stuff those shells and dive into deliciousness you’ve earned it.

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