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 shredded cooked chicken; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Uitgelicht onder: Wereldkeuken

I absolutely love making Shredded Chicken And Cheese Stuffed Shells for a comforting weeknight dinner. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta shells creates a delightful dish that’s always a hit with my family. I appreciate how simple the recipe is, yet it feels special enough for any occasion. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious, making this a great meal prep option. Trust me, once you try these stuffed shells, they'll become a staple in your kitchen!

Gemaakt door

Xanthe Beaumont

Laatst bijgewerkt op 2026-03-05T22:01:10.169Z

When I first attempted to make Shredded Chicken And Cheese Stuffed Shells, I wasn't sure if they would turn out as fantastic as I imagined. After several tweaks, I discovered that using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Each bite bursts with the richness of melted cheese combined with tender chicken, making this dish truly satisfying.

One of the best tips I can offer is to avoid overcooking the shells. You want them al dente so they hold their shape and can embrace the cheesy filling. By ensuring they aren’t too soft, your stuffed shells will come out beautifully every time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Decadent filling that combines hearty chicken with creamy cheese
Perfectly baked with a crispy cheese topping that golden browns beautifully
Great for meal prep or as a comforting dish for gatherings

Ingrediënten

Gather the following ingredients before you begin:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to have everything prepped before starting.

Bereidingswijze

Follow these steps to prepare your stuffed shells:

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

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

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spoon a little marinara sauce into a baking dish to cover the bottom. Stuff each pasta shell with the chicken and cheese filling and place them in the dish.

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure they are all covered. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top.

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

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed shells!

Enjoy your meal!

Serving Suggestions

These Shredded Chicken And Cheese Stuffed Shells are quite versatile when it comes to serving options. They pair wonderfully with a fresh side salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a refreshing contrast and elevates your dining experience. You might also consider serving garlic bread on the side for some extra indulgence; it's perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce on the plate.

For a pop of freshness, sprinkle some chopped fresh basil or parsley on top before serving. Not only does it add vibrant color, but it also enhances the overall flavor profile with a subtle herbal note. If you'd like to make it more of a one-dish meal, consider layering some steamed vegetables, like zucchini or spinach, directly into the filling for added nutrients and color.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize the filling based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For a lighter version, swap out some or all of the ricotta with cottage cheese; it gives a similar creaminess with fewer calories. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, skip the chicken entirely and fill the shells with sautéed vegetables or a mix of mushrooms, spinach, and more cheese for a hearty alternative.

You can also experiment with different sauce types. While marinara is classic, trying a spinach alfredo or creamy pesto could add an exciting twist. Just ensure your sauce is thick enough to cling to the shells to avoid sogginess during baking. Each variation will yield a delicious, comforting dish that suits your tastes and culinary creativity.

Vragen Over Recepten

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can use any cheese you prefer. Just make sure it melts well.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes! You can replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables or a mix of beans for a delicious vegetarian version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

→ Can I freeze these stuffed shells?

Yes! They freeze well. Just assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.