Print

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
Print Recipe

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells is a bold, comforting dish featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy, spicy mixture of shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and mozzarella. Perfect for game day or family dinners, this cheesy baked recipe delivers layers of flavor with a customizable heat level and easy make-ahead option.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 ounces jumbo shell pasta

Buffalo Chicken Filling

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie recommended)
  • 3/4 cup buffalo sauce (adjust for desired heat)
  • 4 ounces softened cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup minced garlic (about 2–3 cloves)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings and Garnishes

  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (reserved for topping)
  • 1/4 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing (optional, for topping or serving)
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives

Instructions

  1. Cook the Jumbo Shells: Boil the jumbo pasta shells in salted water until just al dente. Drain and lay them out carefully to cool, ensuring they maintain their shape for stuffing.
  2. Prepare the Buffalo Chicken Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, buffalo sauce, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, half of the shredded mozzarella, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a creamy, spicy filling.
  3. Stuff the Shells: Gently fill each cooled pasta shell with the buffalo chicken mixture, being careful not to overstuff so the shells remain intact.
  4. Assemble in Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish and arrange the stuffed shells evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella over the top. Add dollops of ranch or blue cheese dressing if desired.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the dish uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the shells are heated through.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add juicy flavor.
  • Under-cook the pasta slightly to avoid mushiness after baking.
  • Mix buffalo sauce and cream cheese in advance and let cool slightly for better stuffing consistency.
  • Cover the baking dish with foil for the first 15 minutes to retain moisture, then uncover to brown the cheese.
  • Make your own buffalo sauce by combining hot sauce, melted butter, and a pinch of garlic powder for freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Buffalo chicken, stuffed shells, baked pasta, spicy cheesy pasta, game day recipes, comfort food, make-ahead meals, gluten free option

Find it online: https://withnora.com/buffalo-chicken-stuffed-shells/