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Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells

Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells


  • Author: easysweetmeal
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells – Jumbo pasta shells stuffed with spicy Cajun chicken, creamy cheese, and smothered in marinara, then baked to bubbly perfection. A bold, comforting twist on classic stuffed shells!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb jumbo pasta shells

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded

  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ cup diced onion

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese

  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • ½ cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup chicken broth

  • 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz)

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste


Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

  • Cook jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente.

  • Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  • Add diced onion and garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.

  • Stir in shredded chicken, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

  • Cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse into the chicken.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

  • In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth.

  • Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.

  • Mix in the ricotta cheese, Parmesan, and ½ cup mozzarella cheese.

  • Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy and smooth.

  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

  • Spoon the creamy Cajun chicken mixture into each cooked pasta shell.

  • Arrange the stuffed shells in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish in a single layer.

Step 5: Top and Bake

  • Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.

  • Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese over the top.

  • Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.

  • Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

  • Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley.

  • Serve hot with a crisp side salad or warm garlic bread.

Notes

  • To keep the pasta shells easy to handle, drizzle with a little olive oil after cooking.

  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and gives superior flavor.

  • If doubling the recipe, use two baking dishes to avoid overcrowding.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American