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 large pasta shells; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1/2 cup marinara sauce; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Homestyle Favorites

I absolutely love making Shredded Chicken and Cheese Stuffed Shells! This dish brings such a comforting and hearty flavor that’s perfect for family dinners. The combination of tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and savory marinara sauce creates a delightful medley that everyone enjoys. I often make a big batch, as they reheat beautifully for easy lunches or busy weeknight meals. Plus, the process of stuffing the shells is quite therapeutic and allows you to customize each one to your taste preferences, making it a true kitchen favorite.

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-02-23T22:18:36.545Z

When I first tried Shredded Chicken and Cheese Stuffed Shells, I was immediately transported back to my childhood family dinners. The rich flavors and gooey cheese bring a sense of nostalgia that I truly cherish. I’ve experimented with different cheese blends, and I can confidently say that a mix of mozzarella and ricotta creates the most delightful filling.

What I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily switch the filling based on what you have on hand, whether it’s veggies or different meats. Don’t be afraid to play around with spices either; adding a pinch of red pepper flakes provides a nice kick!

Why You'll Love It
Hearty and satisfying comfort food for the whole family
Versatile and easy to prepare for any occasion
Perfect balance of cheesy goodness and savory flavors

Perfecting the Pasta

When cooking the pasta shells, it’s essential to boil them in salted water to infuse flavor from the start. Aim for al dente texture, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Remember to stir the shells occasionally during cooking to prevent them from sticking together. After draining, I like to spread them out on a baking sheet to cool off and avoid further sticking while I prepare the filling.

If you find that the pasta shells are too tender after boiling, they might tear when stuffing. Consider reducing the cooking time by 1-2 minutes to select the perfect texture. Another approach is to add a touch of olive oil to the drained shells to keep them moist and less likely to stick.

Stuffing the Shells Like a Pro

When stuffing the shells, consider using a zip-top bag filled with the chicken and cheese mixture for a mess-free experience. Simply snip a corner and pipe the filling directly into each shell. This method ensures even distribution and saves time. For larger shells, don’t hesitate to overfill slightly – a little spillage adds to the deliciousness, creating a cheesy crust on the edges during baking.

If you prefer a lighter option, try swapping half of the ricotta for cottage cheese. This change will still provide a creamy texture while lowering the fat content. Additionally, for a flavor boost, mix in some chopped spinach or artichokes into the filling.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Shells

12 large pasta shells
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup marinara sauce
1 egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping

1 cup marinara sauce
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta Shells

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

Prepare the Filling

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

Stuff the Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Stuff each pasta shell with a generous amount of the chicken and cheese mixture. 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 cheese on top.

Bake

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

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious stuffed shells!

Pro Tips

Try adding a layer of sautéed spinach or other vegetables into the filling for added nutrients and flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for the filling, such as goat cheese or feta for a unique twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These stuffed shells can be prepared in advance, making them ideal for busy weeknights. After assembling, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just remove the wrap and add extra marinara sauce if needed, then bake as directed. This method makes for a convenient meal that still tastes fresh.

To freeze, assemble the stuffed shells in a freezer-safe dish, but skip baking. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, no need to thaw; just add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time, and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these stuffed shells with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a well-rounded meal. A light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the dish by providing a refreshing contrast. For an Italian twist, sprinkle some extra fresh basil or a dusting of red pepper flakes for a kick.

You can also serve the stuffed shells with a side of roasted vegetables for additional nutritional benefits and color on the plate. Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes elevate the dish, both visually and in flavor, making it a feast for the senses.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds incredible flavor to your stuffed shells.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed shells before baking?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells and freeze them for later. Just be sure to thaw before baking and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Certainly! You can replace the chicken with cooked spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetables mixed with the cheeses for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

→ What can I serve with stuffed shells?

Stuffed shells pair well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.