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 rotisserie chicken; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm Inspiration

I always find joy in creating comforting meals, and Shredded Chicken And Cheese Stuffed Shells is a go-to in my kitchen. These generously filled pasta shells bring together tender shredded chicken, rich cheese, and a delightful blend of herbs. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, I love how this dish adapts to any setting. It’s satisfying, simple to prepare, and bursts with flavor—perfect for sharing with friends and family!

Created by

Sybil Hawkes

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:05:36.655Z

When I first tried making stuffed shells, I wanted to keep it simple yet comforting. By using rotisserie chicken, I saved time without compromising flavor. Blending the chicken with cream cheese and mozzarella created a luscious filling that pairs beautifully with marinara sauce. One trick I learned is to slightly undercook the pasta shells; they'll finish cooking in the oven and absorb some of the sauce's flavor, elevating the overall dish.

This recipe has become a staple in our home. It's a fantastic way to utilize leftover chicken and is always a hit among friends and family. I often customize the herbs and spices based on what I have on hand, making it a versatile dish that can change with the seasons.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Hearty comfort food perfect for family gatherings
Delicious blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and tender chicken
Easily customizable with your favorite herbs and spices

Mastering the Stuffed Shells Technique

Stuffed pasta shells require careful filling to avoid overflows while maintaining a generous helping of the chicken and cheese mixture. I recommend using a small spoon or a piping bag with the tip cut off to easily fill the shells without making a mess. The key is to fill each shell to just above the edges; this will ensure they cook properly without spilling out during baking.

When boiling the pasta shells, aim for them to be slightly undercooked, or al dente, as they will continue to cook while baking. Cooking them for about 8-10 minutes, as suggested, allows them to hold together well when filled and prevents them from becoming mushy in the final dish.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Using rotisserie chicken not only saves cooking time but also infuses the dish with rich flavors from the seasoning. If you prefer, you can substitute homemade shredded chicken or even turkey for a lighter option. Just ensure that it’s fully cooked and seasoned to enhance the overall taste of your filling.

Opt for high-quality marinara sauce to elevate the flavor profile of your stuffed shells. A homemade sauce can add an extra layer of freshness and is an excellent way to integrate herbs and spices tailored to your taste. In a pinch, jarred sauce works well if it has a robust flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish:

Ingredients

12 jumbo pasta shells
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup marinara sauce
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your stuffed shells:

Prepare the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the jumbo pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water for about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Stuff the Shells

Fill each shell generously with the chicken and cheese mixture, placing them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish as you go.

Add the Sauce

Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan 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.

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add spinach or other vegetables to the filling for added nutrition and flavor. You can also substitute the chicken with cooked ground turkey or beef for a different twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Shredded Chicken And Cheese Stuffed Shells can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or when hosting guests. Prepare the filling and stuff the pasta shells, then store them in the baking dish covered with plastic wrap for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the wrap, add sauce, and bake as directed.

If you want to freeze the stuffed shells, assemble them without the marinara sauce, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When you want to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and add marinara sauce before baking. This method keeps the pasta from becoming too soggy.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a complete meal, serve your stuffed shells with a side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Crusty bread or garlic bread also makes a delightful accompaniment, providing a perfect vehicle for extra marinara sauce.

Feel free to customize the filling to match your preferences. Consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with different cheese combinations, such as goat cheese or pepper jack, for a spicy kick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh pasta instead of dried shells?

Yes, fresh pasta shells will cook faster, so watch them closely during the baking process.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Mascarpone cheese or cottage cheese can work as alternatives, each providing a different texture.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed shells?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish and freeze it before baking. When ready, bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What other fillings can I use?

Consider adding cooked spinach, mushrooms, or even a variety of cheeses for a different flavor profile.