Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe

Name: Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe
Prep time: 15 mins
Cook time: 20 mins
Total time: 35 mins
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 jumbo 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 Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

By: CALVIN ROURKE

Published: April 11, 2026

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Introduction

Indulge in these creamy, cheesy chicken stuffed shells that are perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. These delightful pasta creations are not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Rich and creamy filling that satisfies your cravings.
Easy to assemble, making it a great option for weeknight dinners.
Versatile recipe that allows you to customize the filling.

Ingredients Overview

This recipe uses simple yet hearty ingredients that pack a flavor punch. The combination of chicken, ricotta, and mozzarella creates a creamy filling that is perfectly complemented by the marinara sauce.

Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells ingredients preparation

Ingredients ready to go

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by cooking the jumbo pasta shells until they're just al dente. This ensures they hold their shape when baked. While the shells cool, prepare the filling by mixing shredded chicken with ricotta and assorted cheeses, then stuff each shell generously. Layer some marinara sauce in your baking dish for added moisture and flavor before placing the stuffed shells and topping with more sauce and cheese.

Cooking in progress

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Troubleshooting and Pro Tips

To prevent the shells from sticking together, allow them to cool slightly after boiling. Additionally, if you prefer a crispy top, broil them for the last few minutes of baking!

Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells finished dish

Ready to serve!

Storage, Reheating, and Making Ahead

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Microwave for quick reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cheesy chicken stuffed shells with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a delightful, balanced meal.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save you time and add extra flavor.

Can I substitute the cheese?

Yes! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses according to your taste preferences.

How do I know when the shells are baked properly?

The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the marinara should be bubbling around the edges.

Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe

Indulge in these creamy, cheesy chicken stuffed shells that are perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. Easy to make and full of flavor!

Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 20 mins

Total Time 35 mins

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

Ingredients

01 12 jumbo 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 Italian seasoning
08 Salt and pepper to taste
09 Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 02

Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Step 03

In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 04

Stuff each cooked shell with the chicken and cheese mixture.

Step 05

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

Step 06

Place the stuffed shells in the dish and top with the remaining marinara sauce and the rest of the mozzarella cheese.

Step 07

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 08

Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

1 Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients like spinach or mushrooms.
2 Serve with garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tools You'll Need

Large pot for boiling pasta
Baking dish
Mixing bowl
Aluminum foil
Strainer

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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