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Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells combine tender jumbo pasta shells filled with shredded chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and a creamy blend of cheeses. This bold and flavorful baked dish is perfect for game day or a comforting family dinner. It’s easy to prepare ahead, customizable in spice level and cheese variety, and delivers a rich, cheesy, and spicy experience in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

  • 20 jumbo pasta shells

Filling:

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie recommended)
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (mild, medium or hot to taste)
  • 4 oz (1/2 cup) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Topping and Garnish:

  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (extra for topping)
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (extra for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta Shells: Boil jumbo pasta shells in salted water until al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes. Drain carefully and set aside to cool slightly for easier handling during stuffing.
  2. Make the Buffalo Chicken Filling: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, shredded cheddar, minced garlic, melted butter, and a few spoonfuls of ranch or blue cheese dressing. Stir thoroughly to create a creamy, spicy mixture.
  3. Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon, fill each cooked pasta shell generously with the buffalo chicken mixture without tearing them. Place the stuffed shells evenly in a greased baking dish.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the stuffed shells. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped green onions or chives on top before serving. Serve hot with your favorite sides or dips.

Notes

  • Do not overcook pasta shells; al dente prevents mushiness after baking.
  • Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor.
  • Increase cheese in filling and on top for a richer dish.
  • Add a splash of sour cream to the filling for more creaminess.
  • Balance the heat of buffalo sauce with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
  • Prepare and freeze stuffed shells before baking for convenient meal prep.

Nutrition

Keywords: buffalo chicken, stuffed shells, buffalo sauce, creamy, cheesy, baked pasta, game day recipe, family dinner, spicy chicken