Shredded Chicken And Cheese Stuffed Shells

Name: Shredded Chicken And Cheese Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 jumbo pasta shells; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Collection

I absolutely love making Shredded Chicken And Cheese Stuffed Shells for a cozy dinner at home. The blend of tender shredded chicken and gooey cheese stuffed into pasta shells creates a deliciously comforting meal that my family always enjoys. I often prepare extra to have leftovers, as they taste just as good when reheated. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any cooked chicken I have on hand. Trust me, once you try this dish, you'll find it hard to resist making it again and again!

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:45:36.735Z

In my quest to find the perfect comfort food, I stumbled upon the idea of stuffing pasta shells with shredded chicken and cheese. The first time I made them, I used a simple store-bought sauce, but I quickly learned that a homemade sauce elevates the dish. By simmering tomatoes with garlic and herbs, I could create a flavorful base that really complemented the stuffing.

Another tip I discovered during my cooking adventures is to use a mix of cheeses for stuffing. Combining ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan not only adds depth of flavor but also creates a creamy texture. This little change transformed my stuffed shells into a family favorite that I now make regularly.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for a family meal
Rich and flavorful filling with a cheesy goodness
Easy to make ahead and freeze for later use

Mastering the Stuffing Technique

Stuffing the pasta shells is really where you can show off a bit! I like to use a small ice cream scoop or a spoon to fill them evenly, ensuring that each shell gets a generous portion of filling. Be careful not to overfill, as they can burst during baking. A good rule of thumb is to fill them to just below the rim to allow for some expansion while cooking.

If you're looking for variety, consider adding some sautéed vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms to the filling mixture. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds depth to the overall flavor profile. Just be sure to finely chop them and possibly sauté to release excess moisture, ensuring the filling remains creamy and doesn’t turn watery.

Tips for Optimal Flavor Balance

The blend of cheeses plays a crucial role in achieving a creamy and flavorful filling. Ricotta provides a lovely texture, while mozzarella adds that melty goodness we all adore. The Parmesan on top not only adds a sharp, nutty flavor but also helps create a beautifully golden crust. Don’t skip this layer as it will enhance both the taste and presentation of the dish.

Regarding the marinara sauce, opt for a high-quality jar or, if time allows, make your own for an extra layer of freshness. Adding a pinch of sugar to store-bought marinara can help balance the acidity, making it pair nicely with the rich cheeses. Just heat it gently before pouring it over the stuffed shells for better flavor integration.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients for Shredded Chicken And Cheese Stuffed Shells

12 jumbo pasta shells
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are prepared before moving to the next steps.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create this delicious dish:

Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Stuff the Shells

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a spoonful of the chicken mixture and fill each pasta shell. Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Shredded Chicken And Cheese Stuffed Shells!

Pro Tips

For even more flavor, try adding chopped spinach or artichokes to the filling. Additionally, using leftover rotisserie chicken will save you time and enhance the taste.

Making Ahead and Freezing

One of the great benefits of Shredded Chicken and Cheese Stuffed Shells is that they can be assembled ahead of time. You can prepare them up to the point of baking, cover them tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze when you have a busy schedule.

If you want to freeze them, I recommend flash-freezing the stuffed shells on a baking sheet for about an hour before transferring them into a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure they heat through completely.

Perfect Pairings

When it comes to serving these stuffed shells, a side salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish beautifully. The acidity of the dressing can cut through the cheesy richness, providing a balanced meal. You can also serve with garlic bread for an indulgent touch; just toast it up in the oven for the last five minutes of baking time.

For variations, consider adding a layer of fresh spinach or arugula between the marinara sauce and the stuffed shells for an extra nutrient boost and flavor profile. For a spicier kick, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the filling or marinara sauce. This added heat can elevate the dish and cater to those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix different cheeses like feta or fontina for a unique flavor.

→ Can these be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and refrigerate them until you are ready to bake.

→ How can I freeze these stuffed shells?

Simply assemble and freeze before baking. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding a little extra time.

→ What side dishes pair well with stuffed shells?

A simple green salad or garlic bread makes perfect sides for this hearty dish.