Name: Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 jumbo pasta shells; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 cup ranch dressing; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

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why make this recipe

Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells are a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the perfect blend of flavors. They are quick to make, taking just 30 minutes, and are a great way to use up leftover chicken. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings. With the combination of creamy cheeses and spicy buffalo sauce, every bite is filled with savory goodness.

how to make Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells

Ingredients:

12 jumbo pasta shells
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup ranch dressing
1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, softened cream cheese, and garlic powder. Stir until well combined and creamy.
Fold in ranch dressing to balance the heat of the buffalo sauce.
Gently fill each cooked jumbo shell with the creamy buffalo chicken mixture.
Arrange the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish without overcrowding.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes or until heated through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with extra shredded cheese or chopped green onions before serving.

how to serve Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells

Serve Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells warm, straight from the oven. They pair well with a simple side salad or some crunchy vegetables. You can also add extra ranch dressing or hot sauce on the side for those who like a little more heat.

how to store Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells

To store leftovers, let the stuffed shells cool completely. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the assembled but uncooked shells for up to a month. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

tips to make Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells

Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to fit your spice preference.
For a little extra flavor, consider adding celery or carrots to the filling.
Top the shells with more cheese for a gooier texture.

variation (if any)

You can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with cooked vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. Alternatively, you can use ground turkey or beef for a different twist.

FAQs

1. Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the shells and keep them covered in the refrigerator for a day before baking.

2. What can I do with leftover buffalo chicken filling?
You can use it as a dip or spread it on sandwiches. It’s a tasty addition to wraps too!

3. Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses, such as cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells