Stuffed shells have long been a staple in Italian-American cuisine, combining comfort, flavor, and a hint of elegance. The Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe builds on this tradition by adding a creamy, cheesy filling that takes the dish to the next level. Originally inspired by classic ricotta-stuffed pasta, this variation introduces tender shredded chicken for a protein-packed twist that’s hearty and satisfying.

What makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser is its versatility. It’s perfect for a family dinner, potluck, or even a special occasion. Moreover, the dish is easy to customize with your favorite sauces or additional fillings like spinach or mushrooms. In addition, it’s an excellent make-ahead option, allowing you to assemble the shells in advance and bake them just before serving.

Furthermore, chicken stuffed shells are a great way to repurpose leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken into a new and exciting meal. The rich blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses melts beautifully in the oven, creating a dish that’s creamy, gooey, and irresistibly good.

For those new to stuffed pasta recipes, the process may seem daunting, but it’s surprisingly simple. With a bit of prep work and some helpful tips, you’ll have a dish that’s as rewarding to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients and Required Equipment

Start your Chicken Stuffed Shells with these fresh, flavorful ingredients.”

Ingredients

• Jumbo Pasta Shells (20–25 shells): These are the foundation of the dish.
  • Substitution: Large pasta tubes like manicotti can be used.
• Cooked Chicken (2 cups, shredded): Rotisserie or leftover chicken works well.
  • Alternative: Diced turkey for a similar texture and flavor.
• Ricotta Cheese (1 cup): For a creamy filling.
  • Alternative: Cottage cheese blended for a smoother texture.
• Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, shredded): For the filling and topping.
• Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): Adds depth of flavor.
• Marinara Sauce (2 cups): A classic choice for the base.
  • Alternative: Use Alfredo sauce for a creamier version.
• Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Optional Add-Ins

• Spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or chopped basil for extra flavor and nutrients.

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta.
• Mixing bowls for combining ingredients.
• 9×13-inch baking dish for assembling the shells.
• Spoon or piping bag for stuffing the shells.

Pro Tip: This guide to selecting the best pasta tools ensures you have everything you need for pasta-based dishes like this one.

Step-by-Step Guide for Making Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta (15 minutes)

First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells until they’re al dente, typically 1–2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain the shells and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss them with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Filling (10 minutes)

Next, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix until well combined. For a smoother filling, blend the ricotta and Parmesan before mixing.

For another creamy pasta dish, check out our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.

Step 3: Assemble the Shells (15 minutes)

After that, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Stuff each shell with the chicken and cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag, then arrange the shells in the dish.

Explore our Best Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wrap Recipe for more cheesy chicken inspiration.

Step 4: Add the Sauce and Cheese (10 minutes)

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, ensuring they are fully covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, followed by additional Parmesan for an extra cheesy crust.

Step 5: Bake the Dish (25–30 minutes)

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 5–10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden top, broil the dish for 1–2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve (5 minutes)

Finally, remove the shells from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Enjoy your Chicken Stuffed Shells, a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and sure to impress your family and friends!

Tips and Tricks for Perfecting Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe

Perfecting Chicken Stuffed Shells is easier when you know how to handle potential challenges. For instance, overcooking the pasta shells is a common issue. To prevent this, cook the shells until they’re just al dente; they’ll continue to soften in the oven. However, if the shells tear, don’t discard them—layer them like lasagna noodles for a deconstructed version of the dish.

The filling’s consistency is another critical factor. If it’s too runny, add breadcrumbs or more cheese to thicken it. On the other hand, if the filling is too dry, incorporate a splash of cream or a bit more ricotta for moisture.

Even sauce distribution is key to avoiding dry shells. Be generous with the marinara or Alfredo sauce, ensuring all shells are covered before baking. Additionally, baking with foil for the first 20 minutes helps trap moisture, preventing the edges from drying out.

For added flavor, consider seasoning the inside of the shells with a pinch of garlic powder or Italian seasoning before stuffing them. Likewise, using freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-packaged can significantly enhance the dish’s depth of flavor.

With these tips, your Chicken Stuffed Shells will be creamy, flavorful, and a guaranteed hit at the table!

Serving and Garnishing Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe

Serving Chicken Stuffed Shells creatively can elevate your dining experience. For sides, pair the dish with crusty garlic bread or a warm focaccia to soak up the extra sauce. Likewise, a simple Caesar salad or roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus complements the richness of the pasta beautifully.

For garnishing, fresh basil or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Consider a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an unexpected tangy twist. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or top with extra Parmesan for a luxurious touch.

Plating is also an opportunity to impress. Arrange the shells neatly in a shallow bowl with a bit of extra sauce drizzled over the top. Alternatively, serve individual portions in small ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Check out our guide on garnishing and plating for more tips to make your meals visually stunning.

To summarize, combining thoughtful sides, garnishes, and creative plating ensures your Chicken Stuffed Shells look and taste exceptional.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe

Avoiding common mistakes ensures your Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe turns out perfect every time. One frequent issue is overly thick or clumpy sauce. To fix this, gradually thin the sauce with a bit of chicken broth or reserved pasta water. However, adding too much can dilute the flavor, so taste as you go.

Another common mistake is unevenly cooked pasta shells. To ensure even cooking, stir the shells gently during boiling and use a timer. On the other hand, undercooked shells won’t soften adequately during baking, leading to an unpleasantly chewy texture.

Filling the shells can also be tricky. Overstuffing them may cause the filling to spill out during baking. To avoid this, use a piping bag or a small spoon for precise portions.

Finally, if the dish ends up too bland, it’s likely due to insufficient seasoning in the filling or sauce. Season generously with salt, pepper, and herbs. Taste the filling before stuffing the shells to ensure it’s well-balanced.

For more solutions, this guide on fixing pasta mistakes offers helpful tips to troubleshoot and refine your recipes.

By steering clear of these pitfalls, you’ll create a dish that’s consistently delicious, beautifully presented, and full of flavor.

Stuffing pasta shells with creamy chicken and cheese is the heart of this comforting dish.

FAQ

What do you eat stuffed shells with?

Stuffed shells pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For example, garlic bread or a simple Caesar salad complements the richness of the dish. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini for a balanced meal.

What temperature should a stuffed chicken be when cooked?

If you’re using raw chicken instead of pre-cooked, ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Thus, you can be confident the chicken is cooked thoroughly.

How do you keep stuffed shells from being watery?

Watery shells are often caused by excess moisture in the filling or sauce. To avoid this, drain ingredients like ricotta or spinach thoroughly before mixing them into the filling. Consequently, your shells will bake to perfection without excess liquid pooling at the bottom of the dish.

What’s the difference between stuffed shells and manicotti?

The main difference lies in the pasta used. Stuffed shells are made with jumbo shell-shaped pasta, while manicotti uses large tubular pasta. For example, shells can be easier to stuff due to their shape, whereas manicotti is typically filled using a piping bag for neatness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the richness of cheese, tender chicken, and flavorful marinara sauce. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit various preferences, whether you want to add veggies, experiment with different sauces, or create a gluten-free version.

All things considered, this recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. It’s not only easy to make but also satisfying to share with loved ones. By following the tips and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll achieve creamy, cheesy shells every time.

Finally, we’d love to hear how your dish turned out! Did you try a unique twist, or did you stick to the classic version? Share your results, suggestions, or favorite sides in the comments. Your feedback helps inspire others to try their hand at this delicious recipe.

For more pasta inspiration, check out our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe.

So, grab your apron and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as fun to prepare as it is to eat. With these Chicken Stuffed Shells, you’re sure to impress everyone at the table!