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 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)

Description

🍗 Chicken Scampi Stuffed Shells combine tender chicken and cheesy goodness for a delicious, hearty meal.
🧄 The rich garlic butter sauce adds a zesty, savory touch perfect for special dinners or comforting family meals.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

1-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.

2-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.

3-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.

4-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.

Notes

🧄 Use freshly minced garlic for a more vibrant sauce flavor.
🐔 Substitute shrimp or spicy sausage for different protein options.
🕑 Assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate before baking to save time on busy days.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking, Simmering
Cuisine: American-Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 650
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 700 mg
Fat: 35 g
Saturated Fat: 20 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 45 g
Cholesterol: 140 mg

Keywords: chicken scampi shells, stuffed pasta, garlic butter sauce, cheesy chicken shells