chicken stuffed shells recipe

Introduction

Chicken stuffed shells are the ultimate comfort food that combines the richness of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta. This dish not only delivers a hearty and satisfying meal but is also versatile enough to adapt to different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a special gathering, or just a cozy night in, chicken stuffed shells are sure to please everyone at the table.

At the heart of this recipe is the delicious combination of large pasta shells, stuffed with a savory blend of shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, all topped with a rich tomato sauce and baked to perfection. The result is a flavorful and filling dish that’s both comforting and impressive.

Ingredients for Chicken Stuffed Shells 🍽️

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious and comforting chicken stuffed shells recipe! Each ingredient plays a crucial role in making the dish perfectly cheesy, flavorful, and filling.

1. Cooked Chicken 🍗

2 cups of shredded or diced chicken (You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick option!)

2. Jumbo Pasta Shells 🍝

20-25 large pasta shells (Cooked al dente to hold the stuffing)

3. Ricotta Cheese 🧀

1 ½ cups of ricotta cheese (A creamy base for the filling)

4. Mozzarella Cheese 🧀

1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella (For melty goodness)

5. Parmesan Cheese 🧀

½ cup of grated Parmesan (Adds a sharp, nutty flavor)

6. Egg 🥚

1 large egg (Helps bind the filling together)

7. Garlic 🧄

2 cloves of garlic (Minced, for extra flavor)

8. Fresh Spinach 🌿 (Optional)

1 cup of chopped spinach (For added nutrition and color)

9. Tomato Sauce 🍅

2 cups of marinara sauce (For layering and baking)

10. Italian Seasoning 🌿

1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning (To bring out the perfect herby flavors)

11. Salt & Pepper 🧂

To taste, for seasoning (Essential for enhancing all the flavors)

✨ Optional Garnish:

Fresh basil 🌱 or extra Parmesan cheese 🧀 for topping after baking!

Now that you’ve got all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Stuffed Shells 🍽️

Ready to make some delicious chicken stuffed shells? Follow these simple steps to create this mouthwatering dish that will impress everyone at your table!

1. Cook the Pasta Shells 🍝

Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the Shells: Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. You want them al dente (firm to the bite) so they don’t fall apart when stuffing.
Drain & Cool: Once done, drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly. You can drizzle them with a little olive oil to prevent them from sticking.

2. Prepare the Chicken Filling 🍗

Shred the Chicken: If using cooked chicken, shred it with a fork or chop it into small pieces.
Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If you’re adding spinach, toss it in at this stage.
Stir Well: Mix everything together until it’s smooth and evenly combined.

3. Stuff the Pasta Shells 🍽️

Fill Each Shell: Take each cooked pasta shell and carefully stuff it with a generous spoonful of the chicken and cheese mixture. Make sure to stuff them as fully as possible without tearing the shells.
Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish, ensuring they are snug but not overcrowded.

4. Prepare the Sauce & Assemble 🍅

Tomato Sauce: Pour your marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Use enough to cover the shells but don’t drown them in sauce.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top for that perfect cheesy, bubbly finish.

5. Bake the Chicken Stuffed Shells 🔥

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Uncover & Continue Baking: After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

6. Serve and Enjoy 🍽️

Garnish (Optional): Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh basil or additional Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
Serve: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken stuffed shells!

And that’s it! You’ve just made a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Preparing the Chicken for Chicken Stuffed Shells 🍗

To make the perfect chicken stuffed shells, the chicken filling is key. Here’s how to prepare the chicken for the stuffing:

1. Choose Your Chicken 🍗
You can use any cooked chicken you have on hand, but here are a few options:

Rotisserie Chicken: A quick and easy option. Just remove the skin and bones, and shred the meat.
Cooked Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well. You’ll need to cook them before shredding.

2. Cook the Chicken (if using raw) 🔥
If you’re starting with raw chicken breasts or thighs, follow these steps:

Pan-Searing: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like (garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning are good choices).
Cook the Chicken: Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness). Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Poaching (Alternative Method): You can also poach the chicken by simmering it in water or chicken broth for about 15-20 minutes, until fully cooked and tender.

3. Shred the Chicken 🍴
Once your chicken is cooked and slightly cooled, it’s time to shred it:

Using Forks: For a classic method, use two forks to pull apart the chicken into bite-sized shreds.
Using a Food Processor: If you want finely shredded chicken, pulse the cooked chicken in a food processor for a few seconds. Be careful not to over-process; you want small, tender pieces, not mush.

4. Season the Chicken 🌿
To enhance the flavor of your chicken, toss the shredded meat with:

A pinch of salt and pepper.
Garlic powder and/or onion powder for extra flavor.
A sprinkle of Italian seasoning to give it that perfect herby taste.

5. Add to the Filling 🧀
Now that your chicken is prepared, it’s ready to be mixed with the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and other ingredients to create the stuffing for your pasta shells.

By properly preparing the chicken, you’ll ensure a flavorful, moist filling that perfectly complements the cheese and pasta in your chicken stuffed shells.

Cooking the Pasta Shells for Chicken Stuffed Shells 🍝

Cooking the pasta shells perfectly is essential to ensure they hold the filling without breaking or becoming too soft. Here’s how to cook your pasta shells just right:

1. Boil Water 💧

Large Pot: Fill a large pot with water, making sure there’s enough room for the pasta shells to move around. This helps them cook evenly.
Add Salt: Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. This will help season the pasta as it cooks and enhance its flavor.

2. Bring to a Boil 🔥

Place the pot on the stove over high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes.

3. Cook the Shells 🍝

Add the Pasta: Once the water is boiling, gently add the jumbo pasta shells to the pot. Stir occasionally to prevent the shells from sticking to each other.
Cooking Time: Follow the package instructions for cooking time, usually about 8-10 minutes. You want the shells to be al dente, which means slightly firm to the bite. If you overcook them, they might tear when you stuff them, so check a shell a minute before the recommended time is up.

4. Drain the Pasta 🧺

Drain Carefully: Once the shells are cooked, immediately drain them in a colander. Be gentle when draining, as the pasta can be fragile while hot.
Rinse with Cold Water (Optional): If you want to stop the cooking process and prevent the shells from becoming too soft, you can rinse them briefly under cold water. This also helps cool them down so they’re easier to handle when stuffing.

5. Prevent Sticking 🧴

Toss with Olive Oil: To prevent the shells from sticking together as they cool, toss them with a little olive oil or drizzle a tiny bit of water over them. This also keeps them from drying out.

6. Set Aside to Cool ⏳

Cool the Shells: Allow the cooked shells to cool for a few minutes, so they’re easier to handle when stuffing. Set them aside while you prepare the chicken filling.

By following these steps, you’ll cook the pasta shells to perfection—firm enough to hold the stuffing but tender enough to melt in your mouth once baked. Now you’re ready to stuff them with your delicious chicken mixture!

Preparing the Filling for Chicken Stuffed Shells 🧀🍗

The filling is the heart of your chicken stuffed shells, blending the savory goodness of chicken with creamy cheeses and aromatic seasonings. Follow these easy steps to make the perfect filling:

1. Gather Your Ingredients 🧑‍🍳

Before starting, make sure you have all your ingredients ready to go. Here’s what you’ll need:

Shredded chicken (2 cups)
Ricotta cheese (1 ½ cups)
Mozzarella cheese (1 ½ cups, shredded)
Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated)
1 large egg
Minced garlic (2 cloves)
Italian seasoning (1 tsp)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Chopped spinach (optional, 1 cup)

2. Prepare the Chicken 🍗

If you haven’t already, shred or chop the cooked chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. This will help the filling stay well-mixed and make stuffing the shells easier.

3. Mix the Cheeses 🧀

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese.

The ricotta provides creaminess, the mozzarella adds meltiness, and the Parmesan brings a sharp, nutty flavor to the filling.

4. Add the Egg 🥚

Crack the egg into the cheese mixture. The egg helps bind the ingredients together, giving the filling a firm yet creamy texture that won’t fall apart when baked.

5. Add Garlic & Seasonings 🌿

Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The garlic adds a savory depth, while the Italian seasoning brings a delicious herby flavor that complements the chicken and cheeses.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

6. Optional Add-ins 🌿

If you’d like to add some extra nutrition or flavor, toss in 1 cup of chopped spinach (fresh or frozen, well-drained). Spinach adds color, texture, and a mild earthy taste that balances the richness of the cheeses.

7. Combine Everything 🥄

Mix everything together until the chicken, cheeses, egg, garlic, and seasonings are evenly distributed. The mixture should be creamy and thick enough to hold its shape when stuffed into the pasta shells. If it’s too runny, add a little more cheese to firm it up.

8. Taste and Adjust 🧂

Taste the Filling: Before you start stuffing the shells, give the filling a quick taste test. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Italian seasoning if needed.
Consistency Check: If the filling seems too thick, add a little splash of milk to loosen it up; if it’s too thin, add more ricotta or mozzarella.

Now that your filling is ready, it’s time to stuff the cooked pasta shells with this creamy, cheesy mixture! Enjoy the process—this is where the magic happens!

Stuffing the Shells for Chicken Stuffed Shells 🍽️🍗

Here’s how to stuff the pasta shells with the delicious chicken and cheese filling! This step is where the magic happens, turning simple ingredients into a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooked Jumbo Pasta Shells 🍝
20-25 shells, boiled al dente
Prepared Chicken Filling 🍗🧀
Made with shredded chicken, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, and seasonings
Marinara Sauce 🍅
2 cups for layering the baking dish and topping the shells
Extra Mozzarella Cheese 🧀
½ cup for sprinkling on top

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Workspace 🧑‍🍳

Lay out your cooked pasta shells, prepared filling, and a greased baking dish.
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the baking dish. This prevents the shells from sticking and adds flavor.

2. Stuff the Shells 🍝🧀

Spoon the Filling: Use a small spoon or your hands to fill each pasta shell with a generous amount of the chicken and cheese filling. The shells should be full but not overstuffed to prevent tearing.
Gently Place: Carefully place each stuffed shell into the baking dish, open side up, in a single layer.

3. Add the Sauce 🍅

Top the Shells: Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, covering them lightly. This keeps them moist during baking and adds rich flavor.

4. Sprinkle with Cheese 🧀

Mozzarella Finish: Sprinkle the extra mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the sauced shells. This creates a melty, golden crust when baked.

5. Ready for Baking 🔥
Now that the shells are stuffed and assembled, they’re ready to go into the oven. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Assembling and Baking Chicken Stuffed Shells 🍽️🔥

Once your pasta shells are stuffed with the delicious chicken and cheese filling, it’s time to assemble everything in the baking dish and bake it to perfection. Follow these steps for a crispy, cheesy, and savory dish!

Preheat the Oven 🔥

Set the Temperature: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the shells cook evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.

Prepare the Baking Dish 🍽️

Grease the Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick spray. This will prevent the shells from sticking to the bottom of the dish during baking.
Spread Sauce on the Bottom: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of the baking dish. This will create a flavorful base and help keep the shells from sticking to the dish.

Arrange the Stuffed Shells 🍝

Place the Stuffed Shells: Gently place the stuffed pasta shells into the baking dish, filling side up. Arrange them in a single layer so they fit snugly but aren’t overcrowded.
Add More Sauce: Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the stuffed shells, making sure they are all covered. This helps the shells stay moist and infuses them with rich tomato flavor.

Add Cheese 🧀

Top with Mozzarella: Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the sauce-covered shells. The cheese will melt beautifully as it bakes and create a golden, bubbly crust.
Optional Garnish: You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and a crispy, savory topping.

Cover with Foil 🏠

Cover the Dish: Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil. This will help trap moisture inside and prevent the cheese from burning while the shells bake.
Tip: Be sure the foil doesn’t touch the cheese on top, as it may stick when removed.

Bake the Stuffed Shells 🔥

First Bake: Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
Uncover & Continue Baking: After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Let It Cool ⏳

Cool Slightly: After removing the baking dish from the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set and makes it easier to serve.

Serve & Enjoy 🍴

Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle some fresh basil leaves or extra Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor and color.
Serve: Serve your chicken stuffed shells hot, straight from the oven, and enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness!

And that’s it! You’ve successfully assembled and baked the most delicious chicken stuffed shells, ready to be devoured by your family or guests. 🍽️🧀🍗

Tips for Perfect Chicken Stuffed Shells 🍝✨

Making chicken stuffed shells is a delightful and rewarding experience, but there are a few tricks to ensure your dish turns out absolutely perfect every time. Here are some tips to take your stuffed shells to the next level!

1. Use Fresh, Shredded Chicken 🍗

Why It Matters: Using freshly shredded, cooked chicken will give the filling the best texture and flavor. Avoid pre-packaged shredded chicken, as it can be dry and lack flavor.
Pro Tip: You can use rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut, or cook your own chicken breasts or thighs with simple seasonings for better taste.

2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta Shells 🍝

Why It Matters: Overcooking the pasta shells can make them mushy and difficult to stuff. Aim to cook them al dente, or slightly firm, so they hold their shape during baking.
Pro Tip: If you’re worried about overcooking, consider undercooking them by a minute, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven.

3. Cool the Shells Before Stuffing 🧊

Why It Matters: Hot pasta shells can tear when you try to stuff them. Allow them to cool for a few minutes after draining to make handling easier.
Pro Tip: Lay the shells out in a single layer on a clean surface or tray to cool down evenly.

4. Make the Filling Extra Creamy 🧀

Why It Matters: A creamy filling helps the chicken stay moist and adds a smooth texture to each bite. Don’t skip on the ricotta cheese or mozzarella!
Pro Tip: Add a small spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese to the filling for extra creaminess and richness.

5. Use the Right Sauce 🍅

Why It Matters: The marinara sauce is crucial to the flavor profile of your dish. A good-quality, flavorful marinara sauce will elevate the stuffed shells.
Pro Tip: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can use a white sauce or Alfredo sauce for a creamy variation.

6. Don’t Overstuff the Shells 🥄

Why It Matters: Stuffing the shells too full can cause the filling to spill out during baking, making a mess. Aim for a generous but controlled amount of filling in each shell.
Pro Tip: Gently press the filling into the shells using the back of a spoon to ensure they’re stuffed evenly.

7. Bake Covered and Uncovered 🔥

Why It Matters: Covering the dish with foil for the first part of baking helps the shells cook through without drying out. Uncovering the dish during the final minutes allows the cheese to get bubbly and golden.
Pro Tip: If you like a crispy, caramelized top, leave the dish uncovered for the last few minutes and keep an eye on the cheese to prevent it from burning.

8. Let It Rest Before Serving ⏳

Why It Matters: Allowing the chicken stuffed shells to rest for a few minutes after baking lets the sauce settle and makes them easier to serve.
Pro Tip: If you’re making the dish in advance, you can refrigerate it and reheat it later. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking for even heat distribution.

9. Experiment with Fillings 🧑‍🍳

Why It Matters: While the traditional chicken filling is delicious, feel free to experiment with adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Pro Tip: For a different twist, you could try adding a bit of cooked sausage, ricotta, or even bacon bits to the chicken mixture!

10. Garnish with Fresh Herbs 🌿

Why It Matters: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
Pro Tip: Fresh herbs not only look beautiful but also brighten up the savory flavors of the stuffed shells.

Bonus Tip: Make Ahead for Convenience 🍽️

Why It Matters: Chicken stuffed shells make a great make-ahead dish! You can assemble them a day or two in advance, store them in the fridge, and bake when ready.
Pro Tip: If you plan to freeze the dish, bake it only halfway, let it cool, then wrap it tightly to freeze. When you’re ready to bake, defrost in the fridge and finish baking.

By following these tips, you’ll create chicken stuffed shells that are perfectly cooked, filled with creamy goodness, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these tips will ensure your dish is always a hit! 🍴😋

FAQS

What Are Stuffed Shells Made Of? 🍝

Stuffed shells are made from jumbo pasta shells that are filled with a variety of ingredients. The traditional filling is a mixture of ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, along with egg to bind the ingredients together. To add more flavor, shredded chicken, spinach, or ground beef can also be included. The filled shells are then topped with a marinara sauce and baked until golden and bubbly.

How to Keep Stuffed Shells from Being Runny? 🍽️

To prevent stuffed shells from being runny, here are a few tips:

Drain Excess Moisture: When using ingredients like spinach or ricotta cheese, make sure to drain or squeeze out any excess moisture to avoid a watery filling.
Thicken the Filling: You can add a bit of bread crumbs or cream cheese to thicken the mixture and prevent it from being too loose.
Cook Pasta Properly: Don’t overcook the pasta shells. Cook them al dente, as they will absorb some moisture during baking, which can make them soggy if overcooked.
Use a Thick Sauce: Make sure your marinara sauce isn’t too watery. If it is, reduce it on the stovetop before using it in your dish.

What Is Stuffed Chicken Made Of? 🍗

Stuffed chicken is typically made by stuffing boneless, skinless chicken breasts with a flavorful filling. The filling can vary widely but commonly includes ingredients like:

Cheese (such as mozzarella, ricotta, or cream cheese)
Vegetables (like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes)
Herbs and spices (garlic, basil, thyme, etc.)
Cooked meats (like sausage, bacon, or shredded chicken)
The chicken is then usually seared in a pan and baked until fully cooked, allowing the filling to melt and infuse the chicken with flavor.

What Do You Eat Stuffed Shells With? 🍽️

Stuffed shells are a hearty dish that pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some popular options:

Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the stuffed shells.
Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread or breadsticks are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus provide a healthy and flavorful side.
Grilled Chicken: For an extra protein boost, you can serve stuffed shells with a side of grilled or baked chicken.
Wine: A glass of red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, complements the rich, savory flavors of the stuffed shells.

These sides and beverages will make your stuffed shells meal even more satisfying!

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Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe on AllRecipes
A popular recipe collection where readers can explore variations of stuffed shell dishes.
How to Make Homemade Marinara Sauce
A link to a delicious and easy-to-make marinara sauce recipe, perfect for your stuffed shells.
Healthy Stuffed Chicken Recipes
A great source for healthy stuffed chicken ideas to pair with your stuffed shells.
Best Pasta for Stuffed Shells
Learn more about pasta types and find the best shells for your stuffed pasta recipes.
How to Store and Freeze Stuffed Shells
Tips on storing and freezing stuffed shells for meal prepping or future use.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken
Explore tips and tricks on how to cook chicken perfectly, which can be useful for preparing your chicken-stuffed shells filling.

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