Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning; 1 cup non-alcoholic chicken broth; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells a delightful blend of creamy sauce and spicy Cajun chicken wrapped inside giant pasta shells creates a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients

12 large pasta shells

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

1 cup cream cheese, softened

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup Cajun seasoning

1 cup non-alcoholic chicken broth

1 tablespoon vegetable oil or butter

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish

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

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Stuff each pasta shell with the chicken mixture and place them in a greased baking dish.

In a saucepan, heat the chicken broth and vegetable oil or butter over medium heat.

Pour the warmed broth mixture evenly over the stuffed shells.

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Prep time is about 20 minutes, and cooking takes approximately 35 minutes, bringing the total time to around 55 minutes. It’s a manageable dish that fits well into a weekday dinner plan or weekend meal prep.

Variations

I sometimes swap out the chicken for cooked shrimp or spicy sausage to change things up. Adding sautéed bell peppers or spinach into the filling adds extra veggies and flavor. For a lighter version, I use reduced-fat cheeses or Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese. To amp up the heat, I add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Storage/reheating

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, microwaving individual portions works well for a quick meal but can soften the pasta slightly.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pasta shells instead of dried?

Yes, fresh pasta shells will work and usually require less cooking time. Just adjust the boiling time to avoid overcooking and follow the rest of the recipe as is.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

You can substitute cream cheese with ricotta cheese for a slightly different texture or Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter option.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance, cover them, and refrigerate. When ready to eat, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can create your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, and black pepper to mimic Cajun seasoning.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta shells and ensure your Cajun seasoning and broth do not contain gluten.

Conclusion

I find Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells to be a perfect combination of creamy, cheesy comfort with a spicy twist that keeps things exciting. It’s straightforward to make but feels special enough for guests or a cozy night in. Whether I’m cooking for my family or prepping for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a reliable go-to that always satisfies.

Recipe:

Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

A delightful blend of creamy sauce and spicy Cajun chicken wrapped inside giant pasta shells, creating a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for any night of the week.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Stuff each pasta shell with the chicken mixture and place them in a greased baking dish.
In a saucepan, heat the chicken broth and vegetable oil or butter over medium heat.
Pour the warmed broth mixture evenly over the stuffed shells.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.