Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells

Name: Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 15 mins
Cook time: 20 mins
Total time: 35 mins
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

By: CALVIN ROURKE

Published: April 12, 2026

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Introduction

Introducing the delightful Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells! This comforting Italian dish combines tender pasta shells with a rich and creamy filling of shredded chicken and gooey cheeses, all smothered in a tangy marinara sauce. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, these stuffed shells are sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

It's incredibly easy to prepare, even for beginner cooks.
Loaded with protein and cheesy goodness, making it a satisfying meal.
Can be customized with different proteins or veggies for variety.

Ingredients Overview

This recipe requires a handful of simple ingredients you may already have in your pantry! Large pasta shells serve as the perfect purse for the creamy, cheesy filling made of chicken, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan. And of course, don't forget the marinara sauce that ties it all together!

Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells ingredients preparation

Ingredients ready to go

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delectable Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine your shredded chicken and cheeses in a mixing bowl for the filling, then stuff each shell generously. Layer the marinara sauce at the bottom of your baking dish for added flavor, then bake covered to steam the shells and melt the cheese. Uncover for a finishing touch of golden-brown goodness!

Cooking in progress

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Troubleshooting and Pro Tips

If your shells crack during cooking, try boiling them for a shorter time next time to ensure they remain intact. Also, ensure generous seasoning in the filling to elevate the flavors of your dish.

Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells finished dish

Ready to serve!

Storage, Reheating, and Making Ahead

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: These stuffed shells can be frozen after baking and cooling completely for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells alongside a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses or even add some spice with pepper jack.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply substitute the chicken with a mix of sautéed vegetables or lentils for a delicious meat-free option.

How do I add more flavor to the marinara sauce?

Consider adding Italian seasonings or a splash of red wine to enhance the flavor of your sauce.

Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells

Delicious and creamy Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells filled with tender chicken and gooey cheeses perfect for a cozy dinner.

Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 20 mins

Total Time 35 mins

By: Calvin Rourke
Category: Chicken Recipes
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Italian
Yield: 4 Servings
Dietary: None

Ingredients

01 12 large pasta shells
02 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
03 1 cup ricotta cheese
04 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
05 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
06 1 cup marinara sauce
07 1 teaspoon dried oregano
08 1 teaspoon garlic powder
09 Salt and pepper to taste
10 Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 02

In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 03

Stuff each pasta shell with the chicken and cheese mixture.

Step 04

Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.

Step 05

Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish and top with the remaining marinara sauce.

Step 06

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.

Step 07

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 08

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

Notes

1 Feel free to substitute the chicken with ground turkey or beef if preferred.
2 You can make the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use.

Tools You'll Need

Large mixing bowl
Baking dish
Aluminum foil
Cooking spoon
Oven mitts

Calvin Rourke

My name is Calvin Rourke, and if you ask me when I first fell in love with cooking, I’ll tell you it was the summer I turned nine—right there in my grandmother’s warm Georgia kitchen, with the scent of peaches and butter hanging heavy in the air. She had a way of turning the simplest ingredients into something magical. That summer, she let me help her make peach cobbler from scratch. I remember standing on an old wooden stool, my small hands clumsily rolling dough while she hummed a tune from the radio. The crust was uneven, the filling spilled over the edge, but when we pulled it out of the oven, she looked at me and said, “Well now, that’s a masterpiece.” That’s when I knew—I wanted to cook for the rest of my life. More details about ? see About me page .

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