Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells are the perfect blend of rich, cheesy comfort food and bold Southern-inspired flavor. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with tender shredded chicken, creamy ricotta, and zesty Cajun seasoning, then baked in a luscious sauce until bubbly and golden. This dish delivers just the right balance of spice and creaminess in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser thanks to its creamy texture and bold Cajun kick. It’s hearty enough for a family dinner yet impressive enough for guests. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta shells, and a cheesy filling creates layers of flavor and comfort. It’s also easy to prepare ahead of time, making weeknight dinners stress-free. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in under an hour.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

16 jumbo pasta shells
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup marinara sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with Cajun seasoning. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
4. Add ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, black pepper, and paprika to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until creamy and well combined.
5. In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Stir in heavy cream and marinara sauce. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Spread a thin layer of the sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
8. Spoon the chicken and cheese mixture into each cooked pasta shell and arrange them in the baking dish.
9. Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
10. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese over the top.
11. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4 generous servings

Variations

For a spicier version, add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling. You can substitute cooked shrimp for chicken to create a seafood twist. Adding sautéed bell peppers and onions to the filling enhances the Southern flavor profile. For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Spinach can also be mixed into the ricotta filling for added color and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the shells in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway if possible for even heating.

To freeze, assemble the dish without baking. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells up to 24 hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator before baking.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Simply shred and season it before mixing.

What if I can’t find jumbo shells?

You can substitute manicotti pasta and fill it the same way.

How do I prevent the shells from tearing?

Cook them just until al dente and handle gently while stuffing.

Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Reduce the Cajun seasoning to 1–2 teaspoons for a milder flavor.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, cottage cheese can replace ricotta, and provolone can be used instead of mozzarella.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The dish is ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely. Spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or diced bell peppers work very well.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well before baking for up to two months.

What side dishes pair well with this?

A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement the creamy flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells combine rich cheeses, tender seasoned chicken, and a velvety sauce for a comforting meal with a flavorful kick. Easy enough for weeknights yet special enough for gatherings, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Prepare it once, and it will quickly earn a permanent spot on your dinner rotation.

Print