Introduction
There’s something deeply comforting about pasta. It’s one of those dishes that has a way of bringing everyone to the table with a smile. When pasta is filled with creamy cheese, tender chicken, and flavorful herbs, then baked under a layer of bubbling marinara and melted mozzarella, it becomes more than just a meal. It turns into a warm and satisfying experience. That’s exactly what this stuffed pasta shells recipe with chicken delivers.
Chicken stuffed shells are a perfect balance of hearty and creamy. They make an ideal dinner for busy weeknights, but they’re also impressive enough for weekend guests. You can prep them ahead of time, store them in the fridge or freezer, and bake when ready. It’s that kind of flexibility that makes this dish a staple in many homes.
This recipe is especially great for using up leftover chicken or even rotisserie chicken from the store. The filling is rich but not too heavy. It’s packed with protein and just enough indulgence from the cheeses to satisfy cravings. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, meal prepping for the week, or simply want to try something new, this is one recipe you’ll want to save and make again.
Let’s walk through everything you need to make the best chicken stuffed pasta shells at home.
Ingredients Needed
This recipe comes together with a handful of everyday ingredients. Most of these are pantry staples or items you can easily find at any grocery store. What makes it special is how the ingredients work together to create a creamy, cheesy filling and a savory, comforting pasta dish.
Below is a list of what you’ll need along with a calorie breakdown per serving so you know exactly what’s going into your meal.
Ingredients List
20 jumbo pasta shells
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cups marinara sauce
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Ingredients Table with Calorie Count per Serving (4 Shells)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Jumbo pasta shells | 20 shells total | 350 |
| Cooked shredded chicken | 2 cups | 300 |
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup | 215 |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup | 320 |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup | 220 |
| Egg | 1 large | 70 |
| Marinara sauce | 2 cups | 160 |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | 8 |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | 5 |
| Salt, pepper, parsley | To taste | 5 |
| Total per serving | Approximate | 470 |
This dish serves four to five people depending on appetite. You can adjust quantities based on your needs.
Read More: Creamy Rice and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While it heats, cook the jumbo pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water. Follow the package instructions but be sure to keep them al dente. Overcooked shells can tear when stuffing. Once they are cooked, drain and rinse them gently under cool water. Set them aside to dry slightly.
Next, make the filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, the grated Parmesan, and the egg. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt, and some freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything together until it becomes creamy and well combined.
Now, take a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread about one cup of marinara sauce across the bottom. This keeps the shells from sticking and adds extra flavor. Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the chicken and cheese mixture using a spoon. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish in rows, open side facing up.
Once all the shells are filled and arranged, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese across the surface.
Bake the dish uncovered for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.
Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like and serve warm.
Read More: Quick Buffalo Chicken Casserole for Busy Nights
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
One of the best things about this dish is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ways you can make it your own.
If you don’t have chicken on hand, you can easily swap in ground turkey, beef, or even shredded pork. Want a vegetarian version? Use spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or lentils in place of meat.
If you like a creamier texture, stir a little cream cheese into the filling before stuffing the shells. It adds richness without overwhelming the dish.
For added flavor, you can mix some fresh basil or chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the cheese mixture. A touch of lemon zest can also brighten it up.
To make it spicy, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce. You can also use a spicy marinara for a little extra kick.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of four stuffed shells provides a balanced amount of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. This makes it a satisfying and nourishing meal that doesn’t feel too heavy.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~470 |
| Protein | 32 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 30 grams |
| Total Fat | 24 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 10 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sugar | 4 grams |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
| Cholesterol | 110 mg |
These values are approximate and may vary slightly based on the exact brands and measurements you use. You can reduce the fat and calories by using part-skim cheeses and low-sodium marinara.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken stuffed pasta shells pair well with a variety of side dishes. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette is a great way to balance the richness of the pasta. Caesar salad is another classic option that always works.
Garlic bread or crusty baguette slices are perfect for scooping up the extra sauce. You can also serve these shells with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini for a more colorful and well-rounded plate.
For a lighter touch, pair it with steamed green beans or a tomato cucumber salad. This dish also works well as part of a buffet or potluck. You can even prepare it in advance and bake just before guests arrive.
Read More: Homemade Chicken Biscuit Casserole
Conclusion
Chicken stuffed pasta shells are a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s simple to prepare yet full of flavor. The combination of tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese inside perfectly cooked pasta shells makes for an unforgettable dinner. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping meals for the week, this recipe will become a reliable favorite.
It’s easy to adapt to your tastes, and the ingredients are budget-friendly and accessible. Plus, with the ability to prepare ahead and freeze, it’s a great solution for busy schedules. Try this once, and you’ll see why so many people love bringing stuffed pasta shells into their dinner rotation.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both delicious and practical, give these chicken stuffed shells a try. You won’t be disappointed.