If you are craving a heartwarming, cheesy, and utterly comforting meal, this Chicken Stuffed Shells with Ricotta and Parmesan Recipe is the answer to your dinner prayers. Picture tender jumbo pasta shells generously stuffed with a creamy mixture of seasoned chicken, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses, all baked in a rich marinara sauce until bubbly and golden. It’s that perfect blend of flavors and textures that feels like a warm hug on a plate, making it a keepsake recipe you’ll want to return to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple yet thoughtfully selected ingredients that each play a vital role in creating the rich taste and irresistible texture of the dish. From the tender chicken to the creamy ricotta and the punch of Parmesan, every ingredient brings something essential to the table.
- Olive oil: Provides a smooth base to sauté the chicken while adding subtle fruity notes.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The main protein, cubed and cooked tenderly, giving the stuffing hearty substance.
- Dry jumbo pasta shells: These large shells hold all the delicious filling perfectly and become tender yet firm when cooked.
- Ricotta cheese: Brings creamy richness and a delicate tang that balances the savory elements.
- Parmesan cheese (shredded and divided): Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that elevates the stuffing and the topping.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that infuses the filling with traditional Italian flavor.
- Marinara sauce: The robust, tangy tomato sauce that envelopes the shells, keeping them moist and flavorful.
How to Make Chicken Stuffed Shells with Ricotta and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Begin by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, which ensures the chicken won’t stick and helps it develop a golden crust. Add the cubed chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Browning the chicken seals in the juices and adds a lovely depth of flavor. Once cooked, remove the chicken with a slotted spoon to drain excess oil and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Pasta Shells
Bring a large pan of water to a rolling boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells until they are al dente, about 10 minutes. The goal is a tender shell that still holds its shape to cradle the rich filling. Once cooked, strain the shells carefully and set them aside to cool slightly before stuffing.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
Combine the cooked chicken, creamy ricotta cheese, three-quarters of the Parmesan cheese, and fragrant Italian seasoning in a medium bowl. Mixing these ingredients creates a luscious filling that’s bursting with flavor and texture. This blend is the heart of the Chicken Stuffed Shells with Ricotta and Parmesan Recipe, so make sure everything is well incorporated.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells and Assemble
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add extra moisture. Then, carefully fill each jumbo shell with the chicken mixture and arrange them in the dish side by side. Once all shells are stuffed, spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with the rest of the shredded Parmesan cheese. This layering promises a gooey, cheesy finish every time.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled dish in a preheated 400°F oven and bake for 20 minutes. During baking, the sauce bubbles around the stuffed shells while the cheese melts to a golden crust, marrying all the elements just right. When done, remove from the oven and get ready to indulge in every comforting bite.
How to Serve Chicken Stuffed Shells with Ricotta and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a pop of vibrant green color and a hint of fresh herbaceous aroma. A dusting of extra Parmesan right before serving can heighten the cheesiness and create a nice textural contrast.
Side Dishes
Light sides complement this rich dish perfectly. Consider a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables to balance out the creamy, cheesy stuffed shells. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also pairs wonderfully for sopping up those luscious marinara juices.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the stuffed shells in a rustic ceramic baking dish straight from the oven for a cozy family-style meal. For special occasions, plate individual servings topped with fresh herbs and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil. You can also add a side of grated Parmesan so guests can adjust cheesiness to their liking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more after a day, making for delicious next-day meals.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Arrange the stuffed shells in a freezer-safe dish to freeze before baking, then thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. Alternatively, freeze cooked leftovers for up to 3 months and reheat when ready.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a covered baking dish at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving works well for single portions—just cover to retain moisture and heat until hot.
FAQs
Can I use shredded chicken instead of diced chicken?
Absolutely! Shredded chicken works just as well and gives a slightly different texture that many find enjoyable in the filling.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and increase the ricotta and Parmesan or add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and texture.
Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?
While ricotta gives this dish its creamy texture, you can use cottage cheese or a mixture of cream cheese and mozzarella as alternatives, though the flavor will vary slightly.
Do I need to cook the shells before stuffing?
Yes, cooking the pasta shells al dente beforehand ensures they’re soft enough to eat and will hold the filling perfectly without being mushy.
What is the best marinara sauce to use?
Go for a high-quality store-bought marinara with simple ingredients or make your own for extra freshness and flavor. The sauce should be bright and tangy to complement the creamy filling.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Stuffed Shells with Ricotta and Parmesan Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like coming home—warm, satisfying, and full of love in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser that’s worth every minute in the kitchen. So grab those ingredients and dive into a cozy, cheesy meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious!
