Name: Irresistible Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 jumbo pasta shells; 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 8 oz cream cheese; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

There’s something truly delightful about sinking your fork into a plate of Irresistible Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells. Imagine tender pasta shells filled with a creamy, spicy chicken mixture that dances on your taste buds. The rich aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses and beckoning you to dig in.

I remember the first time I made these stuffed shells for my friends. They were skeptical at first—who wouldn’t be? But one bite in, and all doubts vanished. It turned into a culinary love affair, and now it’s a staple at our gatherings. Whether it’s game night or just a cozy dinner, these shells always steal the show.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This dish combines ease of preparation with an explosion of flavor that leaves everyone wanting more
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually captivating on any table
Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, its versatility ensures it fits any occasion
You can even customize it based on dietary preferences for added fun!

The joy on my friends’ faces when they devoured these shells was priceless. Who knew dinner could inspire such enthusiasm?

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Jumbo Pasta Shells: Choose large shells for easy stuffing; they hold the filling perfectly and look impressive on the plate.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works wonders here; it saves time and adds incredible flavor.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and binds everything together; opt for full-fat for richer taste.
Buffalo Sauce: The star ingredient that gives these shells their kick; adjust the heat level to your liking!
Shredded Cheese: Use mozzarella or cheddar for melty goodness on top; sprinkle generously for best results.
Green Onions: Chopped finely as a garnish; they add fresh flavor and a pop of color.

For the Sauce:

Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce luscious and smooth; don’t skip it if you want that creamy texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated for an extra layer of cheesy goodness in the sauce; it elevates the flavor profile significantly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Pasta Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil water in a large pot with salt, then carefully add jumbo pasta shells. Cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, half of the buffalo sauce, and some shredded cheese. Mix until well combined and creamy.

Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each cooked shell with generous amounts of the chicken mixture. Arrange them neatly in a greased baking dish, ensuring they fit snugly together.

Create the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, remaining buffalo sauce, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth—feel free to add more buffalo sauce if you’re feeling adventurous!

Bake It Up!: Pour the creamy buffalo sauce over the stuffed shells in the baking dish. Top with remaining shredded cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly.

Garnish & Serve!: Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly before sprinkling chopped green onions on top. Serve warm and watch those plates clear out faster than you can say “buffalo chicken!”

Now that you’ve mastered this recipe for Irresistible Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells, you can impress family and friends at any gathering! Enjoy every cheesy bite while soaking up those compliments—because who doesn’t love being praised for their cooking skills?

You Must Know

These Irresistible Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells are a delightful meal that combines flavor with comfort
They’re perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners
The creaminess balances the spicy kick, making every bite unforgettable
Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the chicken first, then boil the pasta while preparing the creamy buffalo sauce to save time and enhance flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for shredded turkey or add veggies like spinach for extra nutrition and color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use a good quality buffalo sauce for authentic flavor; it makes a significant difference
Don’t overcook the pasta shells; they should be al dente to hold up during baking
Allow stuffed shells to rest before serving for easier handling and better flavor melding

Sharing this recipe reminds me of a potluck dinner where everyone begged for seconds. The laughter and joy around the table, fueled by these stuffed shells, made it a memorable evening.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Cream cheese, ricotta, or even goat cheese work wonderfully in this dish.

How spicy are these stuffed shells?

The spice level largely depends on your choice of buffalo sauce; choose mild for less heat.

Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes! Assemble them ahead of time and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake them.