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
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1 lb jumbo pasta shells
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
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1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ cup diced onion
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup ricotta cheese
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½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup heavy cream
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½ cup chicken broth
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1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz)
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente.
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Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add diced onion and garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
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Stir in shredded chicken, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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Cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse into the chicken.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
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In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth.
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Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
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Mix in the ricotta cheese, Parmesan, and ½ cup mozzarella cheese.
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Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells
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Spoon the creamy Cajun chicken mixture into each cooked pasta shell.
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Arrange the stuffed shells in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish in a single layer.
Step 5: Top and Bake
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Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
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Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese over the top.
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Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
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Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
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Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley.
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Serve hot with a crisp side salad or warm garlic bread.
Notes
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To keep the pasta shells easy to handle, drizzle with a little olive oil after cooking.
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Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and gives superior flavor.
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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