Chicken Scampi Shells Recipe With Garlic Butter Sauce

Name: Chicken Scampi Shells
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American-Italian
Ingredients: 2 lbs diced chicken tenders; 3 cups shredded cheese (such as Monterey Jack, cheddar, or mozzarella); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons paprika; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon oregano; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 12 oz jumbo pasta shells; 6 tablespoons softened butter (divided); 5 minced garlic cloves; 1 teaspoon of the reserved chicken seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 cup dry white wine; 2/3 cup chicken stock or broth; 1/3 cup reserved pasta water; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 2/3 cup heavy cream; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley; Salt and pepper to taste (for seasoning the sauce)

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Scampi Shells

This recipe for Chicken Scampi Shells brings together simple ingredients and bold flavors that make it a hit for any meal. It’s quick to toss together, ideal for those busy evenings when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. What really sets it apart is the mix of tender chicken, zesty garlic, and creamy cheese inside jumbo pasta shells, all baked to perfection.

Ease of preparation stands out because this dish comes together in about 45 minutes total, blending 30 minutes of prep with just 15 minutes of cooking. You’ll enjoy how the chicken tenders, seasoned with a blend including paprika and cayenne, pair with melted cheese for a filling that’s both hearty and flavorful. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt for different diets, like swapping proteins or adjusting spices, while keeping the fresh taste of lemon and garlic front and center.

Health benefits are another reason to try it, as it’s loaded with lean protein from 2 lbs of diced chicken tenders and nutrients from fresh herbs and garlic. This setup supports overall wellness with antioxidants from lemon zest and juice, making it a smart choice for home cooks watching their intake. Whether you’re a busy parent or a food enthusiast, these shells offer a fun twist on pasta nights that feels special yet simple.

Beyond that, the distinctive flavor comes from a rich garlic butter sauce that ties everything together with white wine and cream. Imagine biting into al dente shells filled with seasoned chicken and cheese, all drenched in that lemony goodness. It’s no wonder this recipe appeals to everyone from students to seniors looking for an easy, memorable dinner.

Key Perks for Everyday Life

Perfect for weeknights with minimal cleanup and fast results.
Allows for protein swaps like shrimp or sausage to keep things exciting.
Uses everyday items you might already have, saving time on shopping trips.

You can even assemble it ahead and bake later, which adds to its appeal for working pros. Overall, Chicken Scampi Shells is about creating those joyful moments around the table that Isabella Hayes loves sharing on her blog.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Chicken Scampi Shells
2. Essential Ingredients for Chicken Scampi Shells
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Chicken Scampi Shells: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Chicken Scampi Shells
5. Mastering Chicken Scampi Shells: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Chicken Scampi Shells: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Scampi Shells
8. Chicken Scampi Shells

Essential Ingredients for Chicken Scampi Shells

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making Chicken Scampi Shells turn out just right, and this recipe uses a mix that balances bold flavors with simple prep. Start with the main components for the filling and sauce, all measured out to make cooking straightforward. By following this list, you’ll have everything needed for a delicious, homemade meal that fits various tastes and diets.

For the filling, the chicken gets a flavorful toss with seasonings that add depth without overwhelming the dish. The sauce brings in garlic and lemon for a fresh kick, creating that creamy texture everyone craves. Here’s a complete breakdown of all the ingredients from the recipe, listed with precise measurements to ensure you get it perfect every time.

Full List of Ingredients

2 lbs diced chicken tenders
3 cups shredded cheese (such as Monterey Jack, cheddar, or mozzarella)
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
12 oz jumbo pasta shells (cook to al dente)
6 tablespoons softened butter (divided)
5 minced garlic cloves
1 teaspoon of the reserved chicken seasoning
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 cup dry white wine
2/3 cup chicken stock or broth
1/3 cup reserved pasta water
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
2/3 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste (for seasoning the sauce)

This structured list covers every item required, making it easy to shop and measure. For special options, you can swap in vegan butter or gluten-free pasta as needed. Remember, using fresh ingredients like lemon zest really boosts the flavors in your Chicken Scampi Shells.

How to Prepare the Perfect Chicken Scampi Shells: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting Chicken Scampi Shells on the table is easier than you might think, and this step-by-step guide walks you through it all. Start by prepping your ingredients to keep things smooth and fun in the kitchen. With a total time of around 45 minutes, you’ll have a warm, cheesy dish ready for your family in no time.

First, boil water with a pinch of salt and cook the 12 oz jumbo pasta shells until al dente, about 10 minutes, then drain and set aside. While the pasta cooks, toss 2 lbs of diced chicken tenders with 3 tablespoons of olive oil and the seasoning blend 2 teaspoons paprika, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Stuff the cooked shells with this chicken-cheese mixture for that hearty filling.

Next, make the sauce by melting 6 tablespoons of softened butter in a skillet over medium heat, adding 5 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of the reserved seasoning. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, 1 cup dry white wine, 2/3 cup chicken stock, 1/3 cup reserved pasta water, zest and juice of 1 lemon, then simmer until it thickens. Add 2/3 cup heavy cream, 1/3 cup grated Parmesan, and 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce brings everything together with its garlic and lemon notes.

Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish and spread half a cup of sauce on the bottom. Arrange the stuffed shells side by side, pour the remaining sauce over them, and fill any gaps. Top with the remaining shredded cheese and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until bubbly. For a handy tip, if you’re short on time, check out our stuffed chicken recipes for more ideas on similar dishes.

Helpful Cooking Notes

Step	Time Estimate	Tips
Boiling Pasta	10 minutes	Cook to al dente to avoid sogginess.
Prepping Filling	10 minutes	Mix seasonings well for even flavor.
Baking Dish	15-20 minutes	Watch closely to prevent over-browning.

This method ensures your Chicken Scampi Shells come out juicy and flavorful every time. Feel free to tweak spice levels or try protein swaps as you go.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Chicken Scampi Shells

Making Chicken Scampi Shells your own is all about smart swaps that keep the dish delicious and inclusive. Whether you’re aiming for vegan options or lighter fare, these changes let you adapt without losing that garlic-butter magic. It’s a great way to fit the recipe into your lifestyle while enjoying the same comforting flavors.

For protein and main components, substitute the 2 lbs chicken tenders with shrimp or spicy sausage for a fresh twist. If going vegan, use tofu instead and swap butter for a plant-based alternative in the sauce. You can also lighten things up by opting for low-fat cheese in the 3 cups of shredded blend, keeping the paprika and cayenne seasoning intact for that zing.

When it comes to vegetables, sauce, and seasonings, try swapping parsley with basil or adding spinach for extra nutrition. For a gluten-free version, pick gluten-free jumbo shells and ensure your stock is free of additives. These tweaks, like using olive oil instead of some butter, help maintain the creamy texture from the heavy cream and lemon juice.

Quick Adaptation Ideas

Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian take.
Use low-fat cream in the sauce to cut calories while keeping it rich.
Add cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and vitamins.

These options make the recipe versatile for busy parents or diet-conscious folks, building on the original’s 45-minute prep time. For more inspiration, explore taco casserole variations on our site.

Mastering Chicken Scampi Shells: Advanced Tips and Variations

Taking your Chicken Scampi Shells to the next level involves a few clever tricks that enhance flavors and presentation. Once you nail the basics, like stuffing the shells with seasoned chicken and cheese, you can experiment with new ideas. This section dives into pro techniques that make your dish stand out at any gathering.

Pro cooking techniques include using a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan when sautéing garlic and chicken, which adds depth to the sauce made with butter and lemon. For flavor variations, amp up the heat with extra red pepper flakes or swap lemon juice for lime to change the tang. Presentation tips suggest serving in shallow bowls with fresh herbs and a side of bread to soak up the sauce, making it look as good as it tastes.

Make-ahead options are perfect for meal prep; prepare the stuffed shells and sauce separately, then refrigerate and combine later. This works well with the original recipe’s 30-minute prep, allowing you to bake fresh when ready. Remember, adjustments like reducing cayenne can make it milder for kids, while adding more keeps it exciting for food enthusiasts.

Creative Variations to Try

When you mix in seasonal veggies, like spinach or tomatoes, it not only boosts nutrition but also adds a colorful pop to your Chicken Scampi Shells.

Incorporate herbs like basil for a Mediterranean vibe.
Try baking at a slightly lower temp for a softer cheese top.
Pair with light sides for a balanced meal.

These tips build on the core recipe, ensuring your Chicken Scampi Shells remain a favorite. For similar ideas, visit sites like AllRecipes.com for external inspiration on pasta dishes.

How to Store Chicken Scampi Shells: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your Chicken Scampi Shells tasting fresh, even after a day or two. This dish, with its rich sauce and stuffed shells, holds up well if handled right, making leftovers a breeze. Follow these steps to maintain that garlic-lemon flavor without any fuss.

For refrigeration, store portions in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep everything moist. Freezing works too; just undercook the pasta shells slightly before freezing in sealed bags for up to 2 months. When reheating, warm on the stovetop with a bit of broth to restore the sauce’s creaminess from the heavy cream and Parmesan.

Meal prep considerations include assembling the dish ahead and storing components separately, which ties into the recipe’s quick 45-minute total time. This way, you can pull it together fast for busy weekdays, adjusting spices as needed for different tastes. With these practices, your Chicken Scampi Shells stay delicious and ready to go.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Scampi Shells

Can I swap chicken for shrimp in Chicken Scampi Shells?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with shrimp to make Shrimp Scampi Shells. Sauté shrimp in butter, garlic, white wine, red pepper flakes, and black pepper until just pink. Add parsley, lemon juice, and zest, then stuff the cooked shrimp into the shells. Proceed with the cream sauce and baking as usual. This swap results in a flavorful seafood variation perfect for shell stuffing.

What kind of pasta shells work best for Chicken Scampi Shells?

Jumbo pasta shells are best because they provide enough space to hold both the chicken mixture and sauce. Their size makes stuffing easier and ensures the filling stays inside during baking. Look for dried jumbo shells and cook them al dente to avoid mushiness.

How can I make Chicken Scampi Shells creamier without adding too much fat?

To achieve creaminess with less fat, use part-skim ricotta and low-fat cream cheese in your filling. Incorporate some chicken broth or a splash of white wine in the cream sauce to thin it slightly while maintaining flavor. This balances richness and keeps the dish lighter.

Can I prepare Chicken Scampi Shells ahead of time and freeze them?

Yes, you can assemble the shells fully and freeze them before baking. Arrange stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze. When ready, bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-50 minutes, then uncover and bake 10 more minutes until bubbly. This makes meal prep convenient.

What sides pair well with Chicken Scampi Shells for a complete meal?

Light, fresh sides complement the rich flavors. Try serving with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, steamed asparagus, or garlic roasted broccoli. Garlic bread or a simple crusty baguette also pairs well to soak up extra sauce.

Chicken Scampi Stuffed Shells with Garlic Butter Sauce