Name: Chicken Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells; 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that’s to impress, look no further than this chickchicken-stuffedls recipe. Imagine tender pasta shells stuffed with a creamy, cheesy chicken filling, all baked to golden perfection in a rich sauce. Sounds heavenly, right? Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or treating yourself, this recipe is always a winner.
But wait, there’s more! Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also super versatile. You can tweak it to suit your taste buds, make it ahead of time, or even freeze it for those busy weeknights when cooking feels like a chore. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into everything you need to know about making the ultimate chicken stuffed shells recipe!

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Easy to Make: This recipe is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require fancy techniques.

Customizable: You can swap ingredients to fit your preferences or dietary needs.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the shells in advance and bake them when you’re ready.

Perfect for Leftovers: Store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for a quick and delicious meal later.

Ingredients for the Best Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of how to make this dish, let’s talk about what you’ll need. The beauty of this chicken stuffed shells recipe lies in its simplicity. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or things you probably already have in your fridge.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ingredient Quantity

Jumbo pasta shells 16-20 shells

Cooked chicken (shredded or diced) 2 cups

Ricotta cheese 1 cup

Shredded mozzarella cheese 2 cups (divided)

Grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup

Marinara sauce 2 cups

Egg 1 large

Garlic (minced) 2 cloves

Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon

Salt and pepper To taste

Optional Add-Ons to Enhance Flavor

Want to take your chicken stuffed shells recipe to the next level? Here are some optional ingredients you can add:

Spinach: Chop up some fresh spinach and mix it into the filling for added nutrients.
Crushed red pepper flakes: Add a little heat to balance the creamy flavors.
Fresh herbs: Basil, parsley, or oregano can elevate the dish with a burst of freshness.
Alfredo sauce: Swap marinara for Alfredo if you’re craving something extra creamy.

Consider brining your chicken beforehand for an extra tender and flavorful filling. Learn how long to brine chicken for the best results.

Substitutions for Dietary Restrictions

Have specific dietary needs? No problem! Here are some easy substitutions:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells.
Dairy-Free: Replace the cheeses with dairy-free alternatives.
Low-Carb: Instead of pasta shells, use zucchini or bell peppers as vessels for the chicken filling.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving

Calories 400

Protein 25g

Carbohydrates 30g

Fat 18g

Sodium 800mg

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Stuffed Shells

Let’s get into the fun part—making this chicken stuffed shells recipe! Don’t worry if you’re not a seasoned chef; this recipe is straightforward and practically foolproof. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a dish that looks (and tastes) like it came straight out of a restaurant.

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Filling

The filling is the heart of this recipe, so let’s make it extra delicious! Start by shredding or dicing your cooked chicken. For convenience, you can use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken if you have some in the fridge. Combine the chicken with ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, an egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Pro Tip: Mix the filling until everything is evenly combined, but don’t overmix—it should be creamy, not mushy!

Before preparing the chicken for this stuffed shells recipe, ensure it is cooked to perfection by following these tips on telling if the chicken is done.

Step 2: Cooking the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells until they’re al dente. This means they should be tender but firm enough to hold their shape when stuffed. Once cooked, drain them and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Pro Tip: Be gentle when handling the shells—they can tear easily. Cook a few extra shells just in case some break during the process.

Step 3: Assembling the Stuffed Shells

Now comes the fun part—stuffing the shells! Fill each cooked shell with about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture. Don’t overfill, or the shells might burst during baking. Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish that’s been coated with a thin layer of marinara sauce.

Pro Tip: Use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off to fill the shells easily and neatly.

Step 4: Baking the Chicken Stuffed Shells

Once all the shells are stuffed and arranged in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over them. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese evenly over the shells. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Pro Tip: For an extra cheesy topping, add a sprinkle of Parmesan during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Stuffed Shells Every Time

Want to make sure your chicken stuffed shells recipe turns out flawless? Here are some tried-and-true tips to keep in mind:

How to Avoid Overcooking the Pasta Shells

Overcooked shells can become too soft and fall apart when you try to stuff them. To avoid this, cook them just until al dente. Since they’ll continue cooking in the oven, it’s better to undercook them slightly than to overdo it.

Getting the Right Consistency for the Filling

The filling should be creamy but firm enough to hold its shape inside the shells. If it feels too runny, add a little more Parmesan cheese to thicken it up. On the flip side, a splash of milk or cream can loosen it up if it’s too thick.

Choosing the Best Cheese for Your Recipe

Mozzarella is a classic choice because it melts beautifully, but don’t be afraid to experiment! A blend of mozzarella and provolone can add depth, while a touch of sharp cheddar can give the filling a bold twist.

Common Problems and Solutions When Making Chicken Stuffed Shells

Even the best recipes can come with challenges. Here are some common issues you might encounter when making this chicken stuffed shells recipe—and how to fix them:

Why Do My Shells Fall Apart?

This usually happens when the shells are overcooked or handled too roughly. To prevent this, cook the shells until they’re al dente and gently handle them when draining and stuffing. If a shell tears, don’t panic! You can still use it—just layer the torn shells in the dish like lasagna sheets and cover them with filling and sauce.

How to Prevent the Filling from Drying Out

No one likes a dry filling, so to keep it moist, ensure you’re using enough sauce in the baking dish. The sauce should completely cover the bottom of the dish and lightly coat the tops of the shells. Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking also helps lock in moisture.

Fixing Bland or Overpowering Flavors

If your filling tastes bland, a pinch of salt or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan can work wonders. Conversely, if the flavors are too strong, you can balance them out by adding a dollop of ricotta or a splash of cream to mellow things down.

Variations of Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe

This chicken stuffed shells recipe’s versatility is one of the best things. You can easily switch up the ingredients to create a dish that’s uniquely yours. Here are some fun and delicious variations you can try:

Creamy Alfredo Chicken Stuffed Shells

Swap the marinara sauce for a rich Alfredo sauce if you enjoy creamy, indulgent flavors. The Alfredo’s velvety texture pairs perfectly with the cheesy chicken filling, creating a pure comfort food dish.

You might also enjoy our Chicken Tortellini Alfredo recipe if you love creamy and cheesy chicken dishes.

Spicy Chicken and Jalapeño Stuffed Shells

Looking to add a little kick? Mix some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes into the chicken filling. For an extra burst of heat, top the shells with a spicy marinara sauce. This variation is perfect for those who love bold, spicy flavors.

Low-carb or Gluten-Free Chicken Stuffed Shells

Watching your carbs? No problem! Instead of using pasta shells, try hollowing out zucchini or bell peppers and stuffing them with the chicken mixture. You’ll get all the deliciousness of the filling without the carbs from the pasta.

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells

For a game-day twist, mix buffalo sauce into the chicken filling and drizzle ranch or blue cheese dressing over the shells after baking. This version is sure to be a hit with wing lovers!

Pairing Suggestions for Chicken Stuffed Shells

Wondering what to serve with your chicken stuffed shells recipe? Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

Best Side Dishes to Serve

Garlic Bread: A crusty slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
Caesar Salad: The crisp, tangy flavors of a Caesar salad balance out the richness of the stuffed shells.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make great, healthy sides.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

If you’re serving this dish for a special occasion, pair it with a glass of wine. A light red like Pinot Noir or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a twist of lemon or a refreshing iced tea works just as well.

Storing and Reheating Chicken Stuffed Shells

Have leftovers? Lucky you! This chicken stuffed shells recipe keeps well, so you can enjoy it later without sacrificing flavor. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

How to Properly Store Leftovers

Let the stuffed shells cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Then, store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Pro Tip: To prevent the shells from sticking together in the freezer, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for 1-2 hours before transferring them to a container.

Reheating Tips to Retain Flavor and Texture

To reheat, place the shells in a baking dish and cover them with foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, let the shells thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Pro Tip: Add a little extra marinara sauce before reheating to keep the shells moist and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Still, have questions about this chicken stuffed shells recipe? Here are some common queries and answers to help you out:

Can I Make Chicken Stuffed Shells Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells and store them in the fridge (uncooked) for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply add the sauce and cheese, then pop them in the oven.

Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this recipe. Just shred or dice it and mix it into the filling.

What Can I Use Instead of Ricotta Cheese?

If you don’t like ricotta, you can substitute cottage cheese or cream cheese for a slightly tangier flavor.

Can I Freeze Chicken Stuffed Shells?

Definitely! This recipe freezes beautifully. Assemble the stuffed shells without baking, then freeze them in a freezer-safe dish. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

How Do I Prevent the Shells from Tearing?

Handle the pasta shells gently when cooking and draining them. Cooking them just until al dente will also make them less likely to tear.

What’s the Best Way to Reheat Single Servings?

The microwave works well for reheating one or two servings. Cover the shells with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.