Stuffed Shells with Chicken: Garlic Butter Magic Revealed!

Tired of bland, uninspiring pasta dishes that leave you wanting more? I know that feeling all too well. As a home cook who’s experimented with countless pasta recipes, I’m thrilled to share these Stuffed Shells with Chicken that are truly transformative – each bite delivers a perfect harmony of creamy, garlicky goodness and tender chicken that will make your taste buds dance!

Hi, I’m Emma, the heart behind GusRecipes, and this stuffed shells with chicken recipe holds a special place in my kitchen repertoire. It began when I was hosting a dinner party and needed something impressive yet manageable. The moment my guests took their first bites of these garlic butter infused shells, the room fell silent before erupting in praise. That’s the magic these stuffed shells bring to any table!

In this guide, I’ll walk you through selecting the perfect ingredients, preparing the most flavorful garlic butter chicken filling, and assembly secrets that guarantee stunning results. You’ll also find helpful tips for make-ahead options and serving suggestions that will elevate your meal to restaurant quality.

Why This Stuffed Shells with Chicken Recipe Works

● Uses affordable, easy-to-find ingredients that transform into an elevated dish
● Prep can be done in stages, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep
● The garlic butter sauce creates incredibly moist and flavorful chicken filling
● Versatile recipe that can be customized based on your preferences or pantry inventory
● Impressive enough for guests but simple enough for family dinners

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Stuffed Shells with Chicken

Best Pasta for This Recipe

For authentic stuffed shells with chicken, jumbo pasta shells are the clear winner. Their generous cavity perfectly cradles the chicken filling, while their sturdy structure holds up during baking. Look for boxes labeled “jumbo” or “stuffing shells” – these are typically about 2 inches long and have deep pockets for maximum filling capacity.

Chicken Selection Tips

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work wonderfully in this stuffed shells recipe, providing lean protein that absorbs the garlic butter flavors beautifully. For even juicier results, consider using a mix of chicken breast and thighs. The thighs contribute additional moisture and richness that elevates the entire dish. Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can be a fantastic time-saver without sacrificing flavor!

Cheese Recommendations

A blend of cheeses creates the most satisfying stuffed shells with chicken. Ricotta provides the creamy base, while mozzarella delivers that coveted stretchy texture. Adding freshly grated Parmesan introduces a savory depth that ties everything together. For best results, choose whole milk ricotta and low-moisture mozzarella to prevent excess liquid in your filling.

Ingredients & Prep for Stuffed Shells with Chicken

Shell Preparation Essentials

Before stuffing your shells, they need proper preparation. Cook jumbo pasta shells in heavily salted water for 2 minutes less than package directions (they’ll continue cooking in the oven). This al dente texture prevents them from tearing during stuffing and becoming mushy after baking. After draining, arrange them on a baking sheet to cool without sticking together.

Garlic Butter Chicken Filling

• 2 cups cooked chicken, finely chopped or shredded
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella (plus extra for topping)
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce Components

For the perfect sauce to complement your stuffed shells with chicken, you’ll need ingredients that enhance without overwhelming. A simple marinara serves as an excellent base, allowing the garlic butter chicken filling to remain the star. Alternatively, a creamy alfredo sauce creates a decadent variation that showcases the garlic butter flavors in a different but equally delicious way.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Stuffed Shells with Chicken

Pre-Cooking Prep for Stuffed Shells

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions, minus 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then add garlic and onions. Sauté until fragrant and translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add chopped chicken to the garlic butter mixture and stir to coat thoroughly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the flavors meld, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Creating the Stuffed Shells with Chicken Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, 3/4 cup mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Fold in the garlic butter chicken mixture, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Taste the filling and adjust seasonings as needed.

Assembly Method for Stuffed Shells

1. Spread 1/2 cup of sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each pasta shell with the chicken mixture (approximately 1-2 tablespoons per shell).
3. Arrange filled shells in the baking dish, open side up.
4. Pour remaining sauce over and around the shells, then sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese.

Baking Perfect Stuffed Shells

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and edges are golden.
3. For a beautiful golden top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end (watch carefully to prevent burning).
4. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Pro Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells with Chicken

Preventing Dry Stuffed Shells

The secret to moist, flavorful stuffed shells with chicken lies in the garlic butter integration. Make sure your chicken is thoroughly coated in the garlic butter mixture before combining with cheese. Additionally, don’t skimp on the sauce it helps keep everything juicy during baking. If making ahead, add extra sauce around the shells to prevent drying out during storage.

Make-Ahead Strategies

These stuffed shells with chicken are perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking. Alternatively, freeze unbaked stuffed shells individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, arrange frozen shells in a baking dish with sauce and bake from frozen, adding 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your shells tear during stuffing, don’t panic! Simply place them in your baking dish with the tear-side down. Dealing with watery filling? Let your ricotta drain in a fine-mesh strainer for 30 minutes before mixing, or add 1-2 tablespoons of flour to absorb excess moisture. For shells that won’t stay upright, create small “nests” of sauce in your baking dish to cradle each shell.

Looking for more mouthwatering inspiration? Check out my Pinterest page for stunning food photography and recipe ideas that will have you rushing to your kitchen!

Flavor Variations for Stuffed Shells with Chicken

Mediterranean Stuffed Shells

Transform your stuffed shells with chicken by adding sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and feta cheese to the filling. Replace the Italian seasoning with oregano and a touch of lemon zest. This bright, Mediterranean-inspired version brings a refreshing twist to the classic recipe while maintaining the garlic butter magic.

Herb-Enhanced Stuffed Shells

Elevate your stuffed shells with chicken by incorporating fresh herbs. Add 2 tablespoons each of chopped basil and thyme to the filling. For an aromatic finish, sprinkle additional fresh herbs over the shells just before serving. The vibrant flavors of fresh herbs complement the garlic butter perfectly.

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Variation

For heat-loving palates, create buffalo chicken stuffed shells by mixing 2-3 tablespoons of buffalo sauce into your garlic butter chicken mixture. Substitute blue cheese for half the mozzarella and serve with a drizzle of ranch dressing and chopped green onions. This variation delivers a delightful kick while preserving the creamy garlic butter foundation.

Serving Suggestions for Stuffed Shells with Chicken

These garlic butter stuffed shells with chicken pair beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. For a complete meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli, which can be prepared while the shells are baking.

Garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce. For a lighter option, consider a side of sautéed spinach with a touch of lemon.

For beverage pairings, a medium-bodied Chardonnay complements the creamy garlic notes wonderfully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a splash of lemon provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the stuffed shells.

FAQs About Stuffed Shells with Chicken

Can I make stuffed shells with chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from the refrigerator.

How do I store leftover stuffed shells with chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, add a splash of water or extra sauce before covering with foil and heating in a 350°F oven until warmed through (about 15-20 minutes).

Can I freeze stuffed shells with chicken?
Yes! These freeze beautifully both before and after baking. To freeze unbaked shells, arrange them in a freezer-safe container, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 20-25 minutes to the original baking time. For baked leftovers, freeze in individual portions for quick meals.

What’s the best way to reheat stuffed shells without drying them out?
The key to reheating without drying is adding moisture and using gentle heat. Place shells in a baking dish with a tablespoon of water or extra sauce, cover with foil, and bake at 325°F until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions at 50% power with a damp paper towel covering the dish.

Conclusion

There’s something truly magical about the combination of tender pasta shells, succulent chicken, and the rich, aromatic notes of garlic butter. These stuffed shells with chicken transform simple ingredients into a meal that feels special enough for any occasion while remaining accessible for weeknight cooking.

I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine! The beauty of these stuffed shells lies not just in their delicious flavor, but in their ability to bring people together around the table – sharing good food and creating lasting memories.

Whether you follow the recipe exactly or experiment with one of the variations, I’d love to hear how your stuffed shells with chicken turn out! Share your creations and join thousands of other home cooks who’ve discovered the garlic butter magic of this dish.

Happy cooking!

Stuffed Shells with Chicken: Garlic Butter Magic Revealed!

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• Author: Emma Emma
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Classic Italian-style stuffed shells filled with tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and savory herbs, baked in rich marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese for the ultimate comfort meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

20 jumbo pasta shells

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1 large egg

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1/2 cup mozzarella cheese for topping

1 tablespoon olive oil for greasing the pan

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.

2. Cook the pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water to prevent sticking.

3. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly blended.

4. Spread about 1/2 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

5. Fill each pasta shell with 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture and arrange them snugly in the dish.

6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.

7. Sprinkle the top with extra mozzarella cheese.

8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

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

10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken for faster prep.

Try adding chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

These shells can be prepared ahead and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking.

Serve with garlic bread and a green salad for a complete dinner.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 stuffed shells
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 6
• Sodium: 730
• Fat: 24
• Saturated Fat: 13
• Unsaturated Fat: 9
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 32
• Fiber: 2
• Protein: 36
• Cholesterol: 115

Keywords: stuffed shells with chicken, baked pasta, chicken ricotta shells, easy dinner recipe, Italian comfort food