Hey friend! If you’re always on the lookout for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s easy to make and impossible to resist… let me introduce you to a dish that’s pure magic: Chicken Stuffed Shells!
These aren’t just your average pasta shells—we’re talking big, tender shells filled to the brim with a creamy, cheesy chicken mixture that’s got just the right balance of savory and cozy. Imagine spooning on rich marinara sauce, sprinkling more cheese (because why not?), and baking it all until golden and bubbly. Total comfort food goals, right?
Chicken Stuffed Shells are one of those recipes that feel fancy enough to impress but simple enough for a weeknight. Whether you're feeding your family or having friends over, this dish brings everyone to the table with a smile.
Why You'll Love This Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe
Let me tell you why this recipe is about to become your new obsession—and yes, I do mean obsession in the best way possible!
You know those meals that just wrap you up like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening? That’s exactly the kind of comfort you get with these chicken stuffed shells. But here’s the twist—they’re not your typical cheese-and-spinach situation (no shade to ricotta, we still adore you!). These shells are packed with a creamy chicken filling that’s rich, savory, and totally irresistible. Even picky eaters—you know, the “I don’t like green stuff” crowd—end up asking for seconds. True story!
What makes this recipe a total keeper? It's that perfect blend of fancy and fuss-free. Whether you’re hosting the neighbors, planning a cozy Tuesday night dinner, or need something you can prep ahead for a jam-packed week, chicken stuffed shells deliver every time. They’re reliable, crowd-pleasing, and sneakily easy to pull off.
And let’s be honest—don’t they look like something you'd order at a cute little Italian bistro? No one has to know it all came together in your own kitchen (your secret’s safe with me )
Jump to:
INGREDIENTS
Let's get your shopping list together for these amazing shells!
What You'll Need (Nothing fancy, just delicious stuff)!
For Those Perfect Pasta Pockets:
- One 12 oz box of jumbo shells (grab a few extra in case some break - trust me on this one!)
- 2 cups of shredded chicken (pro tip: grab a rotisserie chicken from the store - it's a total game-changer!)
- A 15 oz tub of ricotta (this makes everything super creamy!)
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella (save some for that amazing melty top!)
- ½ cup of Parmesan (because three cheeses are better than two! ????)
- 2 eggs (they hold everything together like magic)
- A handful of fresh parsley (about 2 tablespoons when chopped)
- 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning (instant flavor boost!)
- 3 cloves of garlic (or more, I won't judge! ????)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Your favorite jar of marinara sauce (24 oz)
Quick Tip: Got leftover chicken in the fridge? Use that instead of rotisserie! Or if you're really planning ahead, those frozen grilled chicken strips work great too - just thaw and chop!
INSTRUCTIONS
Let's break this down into super easy steps - I promise you'll feel like a pro!
Pasta Prep:
- Crank that oven to 375°F - it needs time to get nice and toasty!
- Time to cook those shells! Here's a pro tip: cook them for 1 minute LESS than the package says. Why? They'll finish cooking in the oven and be absolutely perfect!
- Once they're done, drain them and spread them out on a baking sheet so they don't stick together and get clingy (nobody likes clingy pasta! )
The Fun Part - Making The Filling
- Grab your biggest mixing bowl - we're throwing a party in there! Toss in:
- Your shredded chicken
- The ricotta
- Half of your mozzarella (save the rest for later!)
- All that yummy Parmesan
- Your eggs
- The herbs and seasonings
- Mix everything together until it looks like the most delicious filling ever!
Time to Get Stuffing!
- Pour some marinara sauce into your baking dish - think of it as making a cozy bed for your shells
- Now for the fun part - stuff those shells! You can be fancy with a piping bag or just use a spoon (I won't tell!)
- Line up your chicken stuffed shells recipe like little soldiers in the dish
- Pour over the rest of your marinara sauce
- Sprinkle with that reserved mozzarella (this is where the magic happens!)
The Final Stretch!
- Cover your masterpiece with foil and pop it in the oven for 25 minutes
- Then comes the best part - take off that foil and let it go another 10-15 minutes until it's all bubbly and golden
- The hardest part? Waiting 5 minutes before diving in! (But trust me, your tongue will thank you!)
Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe
- Cook extra shells as some may break during boiling
- Use a piping bag (or zip-top bag with corner cut) for easier filling
- Slightly undercook the pasta as it will continue cooking in the oven
- Pat the chicken dry before shredding to prevent excess moisture in the filling
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Piping bag or zip-top bag (optional but recommended)
- Aluminum foil
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken stuffed shells recipe in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: These shells freeze beautifully! Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Cheese Options: Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter version
- Protein Alternatives: Use ground chicken or turkey instead of shredded chicken
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free jumbo shells (cooking time may vary)
- Add Vegetables: Mix in chopped spinach or roasted red peppers to the filling
Dietary Benefits
This chicken stuffed shells recipe is:
- High in protein from chicken and cheese
- Rich in calcium from the dairy ingredients
- Can be made gluten-free with pasta substitution
- Provides a good source of vitamins and minerals
Serving Suggestions
Serve your chicken stuffed shells recipe with:
- Fresh garden salad
- Garlic bread or breadsticks
- Roasted vegetables
- Glass of Italian red wine for adults
The Comfort Dish That Brought Us Back Together
Want to know the real reason I hold this Chicken Stuffed Shells recipe so close to my heart? It’s not just about how creamy and delicious it is (though, seriously—it is next-level). This dish actually came to life during a time when I was feeling stretched thin, like I was juggling a million things and dinner was the last thing on my mind. It was one of those weeks where we were all coming and going, eating in shifts, barely crossing paths. The house felt quiet in a weird way, and honestly, I missed those simple, shared moments around the table.
So one night, I pulled out what I had—some leftover chicken, a half-used tub of ricotta, and a box of jumbo shells I’d forgotten about in the pantry. I didn’t follow any rules. I just made something warm and filling, layered it with sauce and cheese, and hoped it would taste as comforting as I needed it to feel.
Here’s the magic part: as it baked, the smell filled the house—rich tomato, melty mozzarella, a hint of garlic—and one by one, everyone started wandering into the kitchen. No one asked what was for dinner. No one said they weren’t hungry. We all just… gathered. We ate straight from the baking dish, passing forks, laughing, catching up on things we hadn’t said all week. It wasn’t a fancy occasion, but it felt like one.
That night reminded me why I cook. Not to impress, not to follow trends—just to create those little moments of connection. Now, every time I make these Chicken Stuffed Shells, I remember that feeling. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a reminder that sometimes, all it takes is something warm from the oven to bring everyone home again.
FAQ
What pairs well with stuffed shells?
Stuffed shells pair beautifully with fresh sides like a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. A glass of red wine like Chianti or Merlot enhances the rich flavors. Want something cozy and light to start? Try a bowl of creamy Salmon Soup Recipe!
What ingredients are in stuffed shells?
Classic stuffed shells typically include jumbo pasta shells filled with a mixture of ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, eggs, and seasonings like garlic and Italian herbs. Many versions also include cooked spinach or shredded chicken. The dish is finished with marinara sauce and extra cheese, then baked until golden and bubbly for the ultimate comfort meal.
What is Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken stuffed with?
Ruth’s Chris famous stuffed chicken breast is filled with a rich, savory blend of garlic-herb cheese and cream cheese. The filling is smooth, flavorful, and melts perfectly as the chicken bakes. It’s seasoned with spices and seared for a golden crust, making it a luxurious yet approachable dish served in their fine dining experience.
How long does a stuffed chicken breast take to cook?
A stuffed chicken breast usually takes about 25 to 30 minutes to cook in a 375°F (190°C) oven. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken and the filling used, so a meat thermometer is your best tool for accuracy.
One Pan, So Many Memories: What Will You Make Next?
By now, you've seen just how comforting and crowd-pleasing these Chicken Stuffed Shells can be. They're more than just a pasta dish—they're a reason to gather, reconnect, and slow down for a moment around something truly delicious. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a dish you prep ahead for when life gets busy, this is one of those recipes you'll come back to again and again.
If you're feeling inspired and want to keep the cozy vibes going, I’ve got more recipes that bring the same heartwarming magic. For a nourishing and surprisingly elegant weeknight option, try our rich and creamy Salmon Soup Recipe—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl. And when it’s time to finish the meal on a sweet note (you know we never skip dessert around here), don’t miss our dreamy Eggnog Pie—perfect for holidays or when you're craving something silky and nostalgic.
So go ahead, bookmark this Chicken Stuffed Shells recipe, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a family favorite. Because here at Tasty Eats Co, we believe food isn’t just fuel—it’s how we tell stories, show love, and create memories that last way beyond the last bite.
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe
Easy Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Piping bag or zip-top bag (optional but recommended)
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
the Shells:
- 12 oz jumbo pasta shells Cook extra in case some break
- 32 oz ricotta cheese Full-fat for best flavor
- 2cups shredded chicken Rotisserie works great
- 10 oz frozen spinach thawed and drained
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese Divided: half for filling, half for top
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
the Sauce:
- 24 oz marinara sauce Use high-quality store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese for topping
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Cook shells according to package directions minus 1 minute
- Mix ricotta, spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, eggs, garlic, and seasonings
- Fill shells with cheese mixture
- Spread 1 cup marinara in baking dish
- Arrange filled shells in dish
- Top with remaining sauce and mozzarella
- Cover with foil, bake 25 minutes
- Uncover, bake 15-20 minutes until bubbly
- Garnish with fresh basil
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