Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Chicken & Stuffing Jumbo Shells?
It is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken and savory stuffing inside jumbo pasta shells, baked in a creamy sauce.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
This recipe requires five simple ingredients: jumbo pasta shells, chicken breasts, stuffing mix, mayonnaise, and cream of chicken soup.
What size baking dish should I use?
A standard 9x13 inch baking dish is recommended for this recipe.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How do I prepare the chicken for the shells?
Boil the chicken breasts for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked, then cool slightly and chop into small pieces.
How should the jumbo pasta shells be cooked?
Cook the shells according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and dry on paper towels.
How is the stuffing prepared?
Prepare the chicken flavor stuffing mix according to the package directions, using a microwave for speed if desired.
What ingredients make up the shell filling?
The filling consists of the prepared stuffing mix, mayonnaise, and the chopped cooked chicken.
How many cans of cream of chicken soup are needed?
You will need two 10.5 ounce cans of cream of chicken soup.
How much water is added to the soup mixture?
Mix 1 1/4 cups of water with the cream of chicken soup to create the sauce.
How do I layer the dish before baking?
Pour half the soup mixture in the dish, arrange the stuffed shells on top, and pour the remaining soup over the shells.
Should the dish be covered while baking?
Yes, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil for the first 50 minutes of baking.
What is the total baking time?
The total baking time is 65 minutes: 50 minutes covered and 15 minutes uncovered.
How do I know when the dish is finished baking?
The dish is ready when the top is bubbly and turns a slight golden color.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.
What are the calories per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 275 calories.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 12.5 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 28.75 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides 16.25 grams of protein.
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes, pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken can be used as a shortcut instead of boiling chicken breasts.
What type of stuffing mix is recommended?
A 6 ounce box of chicken flavor stuffing mix is recommended.
What should I serve as a side dish?
This meal pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the shells and refrigerate them before baking, though you may need to increase the bake time.
Why do I need to dry the shells on paper towels?
Drying the shells helps prevent excess moisture from making the dish watery.
Is this dish considered a casserole?
Yes, it is often categorized as a chicken casserole or a baked pasta dish.
Can I use low-fat mayonnaise?
Yes, low-fat mayonnaise can be used, though the texture may be slightly less creamy.
What is the purpose of the mayonnaise in the filling?
The mayonnaise adds moisture and richness to the chicken and stuffing mixture.
Should I let the dish rest after baking?
Yes, letting it rest for a few minutes allows the sauce to set before serving.
Can I add cheese to the top?
While not in the base recipe, adding shredded cheese during the last 15 minutes of baking is a common variation.
What kind of pasta is used?
A 12 ounce box of jumbo pasta shells is required for this recipe.