Italian Chicken Salad Stuffed Jumbo Shells
Brighten up your next gathering with these delightful Italian Chicken Salad Stuffed Jumbo Shells. This refreshing appetizer combines the crunch of fresh veggies with the savory taste of coarsely chopped chicken and salami, all nestled inside perfectly cooked jumbo pasta shells. Dressed with a zingy roasted garlic vinaigrette, each shell is a burst of flavor that makes them ideal for picnics, cookouts, or any festive occasion. Prepared ahead of time, these stuffed shells are not only easy to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
N/A
Servings
30
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
jumbo pasta shells
1 (16 ounce package, cooked according to package instructions)
romaine lettuce
4 (cups, chopped)
fresh basil
1/2 (cup, chopped)
cooked chicken
1 (cup, coarsely chopped)
tomatoes
1 (cup, coarsely chopped)
cucumber
3/4 (cup, coarsely chopped)
Italian hard salami
3 (ounces, chopped)
roasted garlic vinaigrette dressing
1/3 (cup)
Instructions
1
Begin by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Once they are al dente, drain the shells and set them aside to cool completely.
2
In a separate medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, fresh basil, cooked chicken, chopped tomatoes, chopped cucumber, and diced Italian salami.
3
Drizzle the roasted garlic vinaigrette dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
4
Once the noodles are cool, carefully stuff each pasta shell with the prepared salad mixture. Make sure to pack them well to hold the filling.
5
Arrange the stuffed shells on a serving platter, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
6
Serve chilled as a refreshing appetizer that your guests will love!
Nutrition Information
2g
Fat
1g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Italian Chicken Salad Stuffed Jumbo Shells?
They are a refreshing appetizer consisting of cooked jumbo pasta shells filled with a mixture of romaine lettuce, chicken, salami, tomatoes, cucumber, and fresh basil, tossed in a roasted garlic vinaigrette.
How long should I cook the pasta shells?
The jumbo pasta shells should be cooked according to the package instructions until they are al dente, ensuring they are firm enough to hold the filling.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, it is recommended to refrigerate the stuffed shells for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
You should use cooked chicken that is coarsely chopped. Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
This dish is served chilled, making it an ideal appetizer for picnics, cookouts, and summer gatherings.
What kind of dressing is used?
The recipe calls for a roasted garlic vinaigrette dressing, which provides a zingy and savory flavor profile.
Can I substitute the Italian hard salami?
Yes, if you prefer a different meat, you can use prosciutto or pepperoni, or omit it entirely for a lighter version.
What vegetables are included in the salad filling?
The filling includes chopped romaine lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and chopped cucumbers for a fresh crunch.
How should I store the stuffed shells?
Store them on a serving platter covered tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator.
How many jumbo shells come in a 16-ounce package?
Typically, a 16-ounce package contains about 30 to 40 jumbo shells, depending on the brand.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
While fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor, you can use 1-2 tablespoons of dried basil if fresh is unavailable.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It is not gluten-free as written because it uses wheat pasta shells, but you can substitute them with gluten-free jumbo shells.
How many calories are in one shell?
Based on the nutritional data provided, each serving contains approximately 30 calories.
Can I add cheese to the mixture?
Yes, adding shredded parmesan or small mozzarella pearls would complement the Italian flavors nicely.
How do I prevent the shells from sticking together after cooking?
After draining the cooked shells, you can rinse them with cold water or lightly toss them in a small amount of olive oil while they cool.
What is the best way to chop the ingredients?
It is best to chop the ingredients into small, uniform pieces so they fit easily inside the shells and provide a balanced bite.
Can I use a different type of lettuce?
Yes, you can use iceberg lettuce for more crunch or baby spinach for a different flavor profile.
How long will leftovers keep in the fridge?
Leftovers are best consumed within 24 hours, as the lettuce may begin to wilt after being dressed for too long.
Can I freeze these stuffed shells?
Freezing is not recommended because the fresh vegetables and lettuce will lose their texture and become soggy upon thawing.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it is a very approachable dish with familiar ingredients like chicken, pasta, and mild dressing that most children enjoy.
What can I serve with these stuffed shells?
They pair well with other appetizers like bruschetta, a fruit platter, or as a light lunch alongside a cup of soup.
Can I substitute the chicken with something else?
Yes, you can use cooked shrimp, canned tuna, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian protein option.
Do I need to peel the cucumber?
Peeling is optional. If you use an English cucumber, the skin is thin enough to leave on; for regular cucumbers, you may prefer to peel them.
How much fat is in this recipe?
There are approximately 2 grams of fat per serving in this recipe.
Can I use a creamy dressing instead of a vinaigrette?
Yes, a creamy Italian or Ranch dressing would work, though it will change the flavor and increase the calorie count.
Should the chicken be warm or cold when mixing?
The chicken should be completely cooled before mixing it with the lettuce and vegetables to prevent wilting.
How do I ensure the shells stay upright on a platter?
Nestle them closely together on the serving tray, or you can trim a very thin slice off the bottom of the shell to create a flat base.
Is this recipe considered a main course or an appetizer?
While it is primarily designed as an appetizer, it can certainly be served as a light main course, especially during warm weather.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving contains approximately 1 gram of protein.
Can I add olives to the salad mix?
Absolutely! Sliced black olives or kalamata olives would be a perfect addition to enhance the Italian theme.