Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe: An Easy Comfort Dinner

Imagine the tantalizing aroma of bubbling marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella cheese wafting through your kitchen. This chicken stuffed shells recipe is the kind of comfort food that makes everything better, whether you’re winding down after a hectic day or hosting a cozy dinner party with loved ones.

Stuffed shells are an Italian-American classic, and this version takes it up a notch by incorporating tender, shredded chicken into a rich and creamy filling. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of textures and flavors: the soft pasta shell, the creamy cheesy center, and the tangy tomato sauce.

What makes this dish even better? It’s surprisingly easy to make, with simple steps that let even beginner cooks shine. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend indulgence, this dish will become a family favorite in no time.

Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe

Recipe by SoukaynaCuisine: American, ItalianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

This chicken stuffed shells recipe combines tender pasta shells with a creamy, cheesy chicken filling, all baked to perfection under a layer of rich marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. Comfort food at its finest!

Ingredients

20 jumbo pasta shells
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cups marinara sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook Pasta Shells: Boil jumbo pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Stuff Shells: Fill each pasta shell with the chicken mixture and arrange them in a baking dish coated with a layer of marinara sauce.
Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells. Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Freshly grated cheese enhances flavor and melts better.
Avoid overcooking the shells to keep them firm enough for stuffing.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Stuffed Shells

Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh ricotta and good-quality marinara sauce make all the difference in flavor.
Undercook the Pasta: Boil shells until just al dente; they’ll finish cooking in the oven.
Mix the Filling Thoroughly: Ensure the chicken, cheese, and seasonings are well blended for even flavor.
Avoid Overcrowding: Arrange the shells in a single layer to ensure they bake evenly.
Don’t Skip the Covering Step: Baking the dish covered with foil first prevents the shells from drying out.

Recipe Variants

Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or a mix of roasted vegetables.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the filling or use a spicy marinara sauce.
Seafood Twist: Swap the chicken for cooked shrimp or crab for a decadent seafood version.
Cheese Lovers’ Delight: Add extra cheese like fontina or gouda for a richer flavor.
Low-Carb Version: Use zucchini boats instead of pasta shells for a healthier take.

FAQ

Can I freeze chicken stuffed shells?

Absolutely! Assemble the shells, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding about 20 minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey, beef, or sausage work wonderfully in this recipe. Cook the meat before mixing it with the other filling ingredients.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta shells or substitute with zucchini slices for a naturally gluten-free option.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the entire dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Recipe Proposition

If you loved this recipe, you’ll adore our Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake for another cheesy, comforting dinner idea!

Nutrition Information

Each serving of chicken stuffed shells (based on 6 servings) contains approximately:

Calories: 380 kcal
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fats: 16g
Fiber: 2g

(Note: Values may vary based on specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.)

Health Benefits of Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe

Rich in Protein: The chicken and cheese filling provide a healthy dose of protein, supporting muscle repair and growth.
Balanced Energy: The carbohydrates from pasta and fats from cheese offer sustained energy.
Calcium Boost: Cheese and ricotta deliver a good amount of calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth.
Customizable for Health: Swap regular pasta for whole-grain or gluten-free options, and add vegetables for extra vitamins and minerals.
Mood Booster: The cheesy, creamy flavors can have a comforting and mood-lifting effect.

Chicken stuffed shells are more than just a dinner recipe—they’re an experience. This dish embodies everything we crave in comfort food: hearty, flavorful, and soul-warming. From the creamy filling to the tangy marinara sauce, every bite feels like a hug from the inside out.

Whether you’re preparing for a casual weeknight meal or impressing guests, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s versatile, easy to make, and endlessly customizable. Don’t be surprised if this recipe becomes a frequent request in your household!