Buffalo chicken stuffed shells have become my absolute go-to for a weeknight meal that feels fancy enough for guests but is easy enough for a Tuesday. I remember the first time I tried making them; I was a bit nervous about stuffing the shells, but it turned out to be surprisingly simple! The aroma of warm buffalo sauce and melting cheese filling my kitchen totally hooked me. If you’ve ever wondered what are buffalo chicken stuffed shells, imagine tender pasta shells bursting with a creamy, spicy chicken filling. These easy buffalo chicken shells are a game-changer, and I can’t wait for you to try them. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
- The taste is incredible – a perfect balance of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy, cheesy goodness.
- It’s a surprisingly quick meal, with prep time around 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- You get a good dose of protein from the chicken and cheese, making it a satisfying dinner.
- This dish is super budget-friendly, using simple ingredients that don’t break the bank.
- It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will devour.
- You’ll adore this creamy buffalo chicken pasta because it’s comforting and rich.
- It’s easily one of the best buffalo chicken stuffed shells you’ll ever make!
Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
Gathering these buffalo chicken stuffed shells ingredients is the first step to pure deliciousness. This recipe is all about that perfect creamy texture, and the key players are right here:
- 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells – cook these until just al dente; they’ll finish cooking in the oven.
- 2 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken – rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver here!
- 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened – this is crucial for that luscious, creamy filling that makes this a fantastic buffalo chicken stuffed shells recipe with cream cheese.
- 1/2 cup Buffalo Sauce – choose your favorite heat level!
- 1 cup Ricotta Cheese – adds another layer of creaminess and a slight tang.
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Mozzarella or Cheddar) – for that gooey, melty goodness.
- 1/2 cup Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing – this balances the spice and adds a delightful zing.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder – essential flavor booster.
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder – complements the garlic and chicken.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Chives), optional – for a pop of freshness and color.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
Let’s dive into how to make buffalo chicken stuffed shells! This part is where the magic happens, transforming simple ingredients into a comforting masterpiece. I love this part because you can really see the dish come together.
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a baking dish and give it a light grease so nothing sticks.
- Step 2: Get your jumbo pasta shells cooking according to the package directions. You want them perfectly al dente – tender but still with a slight bite, as they’ll finish cooking in the oven. Drain them and set them aside; be gentle so they don’t break.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella (or cheddar), garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix everything together until it’s wonderfully creamy and well combined. The aroma at this stage is already amazing!
- Step 4: Now, gently fold in the ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing, if you prefer). This step is key to balancing the heat from the buffalo sauce and adding another layer of delicious flavor to your filling.
- Step 5: Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with a generous amount of the creamy chicken mixture. Don’t be shy – fill them up! This is the most satisfying part of making this buffalo chicken shell recipe.
- Step 6: Arrange the filled shells in your prepared baking dish. Try not to overcrowd them, giving them a little space to breathe and bubble up.
- Step 7: Cover the dish tightly with foil. Bake for 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when everything is heated through and the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. The kitchen will smell incredible!
- Step 8: Remove the foil for the last few minutes if you want the tops a little crispier, or just serve as is. Garnish with extra cheese, chopped fresh parsley, or green onions for a fresh finish before digging into this amazing buffalo chicken pasta shells dish.
Pro Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
I’ve made these a hundred times, and these little tricks always guarantee a fantastic result. Follow these tips to elevate your buffalo chicken stuffed shells!
- Don’t overcook the shells initially; they should be al dente as they will cook further in the oven.
- Ensure your cream cheese is softened for the smoothest, creamiest filling.
- Taste the filling before stuffing! Adjust buffalo sauce or ranch/blue cheese dressing to your preference.
- If a shell breaks during stuffing, don’t worry! Just layer it in the dish like lasagna, it will still taste amazing.
What’s the secret to perfect Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells?
The real secret to a perfect spicy stuffed shells recipe like this one lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Using softened cream cheese and a touch of ranch or blue cheese dressing creates an incredibly creamy, luscious filling that perfectly complements the spicy buffalo chicken. For more information on balancing flavors, check out these tips on the beauty of food.
Can I make Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the shells up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time to ensure they’re heated through.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells?
A common pitfall is overcooking the pasta shells, leading to mushy results. Another mistake is not softening the cream cheese, which can result in a lumpy filling. Finally, don’t skip tasting and adjusting the filling; personal preference for spice is key! Learn more about the importance of proper ingredient preparation in this article on barley, which highlights ingredient quality.
Variations of Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells You Can Try
Looking to switch things up or cater to different tastes? These variations on buffalo chicken stuffed pasta shells are fantastic ways to enjoy this dish. I love experimenting, and these ideas offer delicious twists.
- For a Different Pasta Shape: If you can’t find jumbo shells or prefer something else, try using regular manicotti shells for a similar experience, or even large pasta tubes. The filling works wonderfully in buffalo chicken manicotti too! For other pasta ideas, explore our pasta recipes.
- Lighter Version: Swap the cream cheese for an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt and use low-fat ricotta. This significantly cuts down on fat and calories while keeping things creamy.
- No-Bake Option: For a quicker meal that’s perfect for summer, you can skip the baking! Simply cook the shells, prepare the filling, and toss everything together in a bowl like a pasta salad. It’s a refreshing take on the classic.
- Extra Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling or use a spicier buffalo sauce. You can also serve with extra hot sauce on the side for those who love a serious heat!
Best Ways to Serve Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
These incredible buffalo chicken stuffed shells are so versatile, they pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic pairing, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is perfect. The cool, crisp greens provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, spicy pasta. If you’re a fan of dipping, serving them with a side of extra buffalo sauce for drizzling is always a hit.
When it comes to dressing, you can’t go wrong with either blue cheese or ranch. Offering buffalo chicken stuffed shells with blue cheese provides that tangy, classic buffalo flavor combination that many people adore. Alternatively, a creamy side of buffalo chicken stuffed shells with ranch offers a milder, yet equally delicious, creamy counterpoint. Both dressings enhance the overall experience beautifully!
Nutrition Facts for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
These numbers give you a good idea of what you’re getting with each serving of these delicious buffalo chicken stuffed shells. Keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use.
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
These buffalo chicken stuffed shells calories are based on the recipe yielding 4 servings. Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
Leftovers of these amazing buffalo chicken stuffed shells are almost as good as the original! Once they’ve cooled slightly, transfer any remaining pasta shells to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days, making them perfect for planned leftovers.
If you want to stock up or prepare ahead for a busy week, freezing these buffalo chicken pasta shells is a fantastic option. You can freeze them either before or after baking. For best results, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then, bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, covered with a damp paper towel, for a quick meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
Can I make Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells without ricotta cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for buffalo chicken stuffed shells no ricotta, you can easily substitute an equal amount of cottage cheese or even an extra 4 ounces of cream cheese for that creamy texture. Some people even use plain Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy alternative. The key is to maintain that luscious, creamy filling that helps bind everything together.
Is this an easy buffalo chicken shells recipe?
Yes, this is definitely an easy buffalo chicken shells recipe! The most “difficult” part is stuffing the shells, but even that is straightforward and surprisingly quick, especially if you use pre-cooked shredded chicken. The filling comes together in minutes, and the baking process is hands-off. It’s designed to be a stress-free meal. For more simple recipes, check out our recipe collection.
What are the best buffalo chicken stuffed shells variations?
The beauty of this dish is its versatility! Beyond the classic, you can try making it with different cheeses, like pepper jack for extra heat, or adding finely chopped celery to the filling for a bit of crunch. Some people even mix in a bit of shredded carrot. For a different flavor profile, try using a smoky chipotle sauce instead of buffalo sauce.
How long do buffalo chicken stuffed shells bake?
The standard buffalo chicken stuffed shells bake time is about 25 minutes covered at 375°F (190°C). This allows the shells to heat through and the cheese to become perfectly melted and bubbly. If your shells are coming straight from the fridge, you might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to ensure they are piping hot throughout.
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Amazing Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These creamy buffalo chicken stuffed shells are a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that will impress your family. A flavorful blend of shredded chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and creamy cheeses makes this a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
- 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells
- 2 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken
- 8 oz Cream Cheese
- 1/2 cup Buffalo Sauce
- 1 cup Ricotta Cheese
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Mozzarella or Cheddar)
- 1/2 cup Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1/4 cup Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Chives), optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente; set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, cream cheese, and garlic powder until combined and creamy.
- Fold in the ranch dressing to balance the spicy notes.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell generously with the creamy chicken mixture.
- Arrange the filled shells in a greased baking dish without overcrowding.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with additional cheese or chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
- Optional: Drizzle with extra buffalo sauce for an additional kick!
- For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese.
- Cottage cheese can be used as a substitute for ricotta cheese.
- Monterey Jack cheese can be used instead of mozzarella or cheddar.
- Use ranch dressing for milder flavors or blue cheese dressing for a bolder taste.
- Fresh minced garlic can be substituted for garlic powder.
- Sautéed fresh onions can be used instead of onion powder.
- If some shells break during stuffing, they can be layered in the baking dish like lasagna.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
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