Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells are a delightful twist on traditional stuffed pasta. This dish combines the creamy, spicy flavors of buffalo chicken with the comforting texture of jumbo pasta shells. Perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings, these stuffed shells are sure to become a favorite in your household. With easy-to-follow steps and accessible ingredients, anyone can whip up this dish in no time!
A Personal Story Behind My Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells Journey
Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the table for dinner every Sunday. One of my mother’s favorite recipes was her classic stuffed shells, but as I grew older, I wanted to add my own spin to it. The first time I made Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells, it was for a potluck with friends. To my surprise, they were a hit! The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy cheeses made everyone come back for seconds. Now, this recipe is a staple in my home, bringing friends and family together just like my mother’s did.
What Makes This Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out for its bold flavors and comforting textures. By using shredded rotisserie chicken, you save time without sacrificing taste. The addition of ranch seasoning and buffalo sauce creates a perfect balance of spice and creaminess, while the melted cheeses on top offer a deliciously gooey finish. Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it is also customizable, allowing you to adjust the heat level to your liking. Plus, it’s a fun way to enjoy the classic flavors of buffalo chicken in a new form!
The Full Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 ounces (340 g) jumbo shells, cooked al dente
- 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 3 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning (homemade or 1 1/2 packages store-bought)
- 1/2 cup (128 g) buffalo sauce
- 1 block (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (113 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup (113 g) shredded white cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This will prevent the shells from sticking and make cleanup easier.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ranch seasoning, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, and black pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are fully blended. This step ensures that each shell is packed with flavor.
- Fill each cooked jumbo shell with the chicken mixture and arrange them in the prepared baking dish. Be generous with the filling to ensure a hearty bite!
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and white cheddar cheese on top of the stuffed shells. This will create a bubbly, cheesy crust that everyone loves. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted.
- Once done, drizzle the stuffed shells with ranch dressing and buffalo sauce before serving. This extra touch adds a beautiful finish to your dish!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
These Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells are versatile! Serve them with a side of crisp celery and carrot sticks for a crunchy contrast, or pair them with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish. If you want to mix things up, consider adding chopped green onions or crumbled blue cheese on top for added flavor. For a more intense heat, you can mix in extra buffalo sauce or cayenne pepper into the filling.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance. Just cover the baking dish with foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked stuffed shells. Just make sure they are well covered to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
What can I substitute for rotisserie chicken?
If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, you can use leftover cooked chicken or even shredded turkey. Just ensure the meat is seasoned well for the best flavor.
How can I adjust the heat level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce. For more heat, feel free to add more buffalo sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the chicken mixture.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 380
- Servings: 6
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish For baking the stuffed shells.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces jumbo shells, cooked al dente
- 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 3 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning homemade or 1 1/2 packages store-bought
- 1 /2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 block (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing for topping
- 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ranch seasoning, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, and black pepper. Mix well until blended.
- Fill each cooked jumbo shell with the chicken mixture and arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and white cheddar cheese on top of the stuffed shells. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted.
- Drizzle the stuffed shells with ranch dressing and buffalo sauce before serving.