Description
These Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells are packed with shredded chicken, cream cheese, Cajun seasoning, and melty mozzarella, all nestled inside tender pasta shells. Baked with a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce, it’s the perfect comfort food with a kick—ideal for cozy family dinners or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
For the Filling
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2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
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1 cup cream cheese, softened
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Shells & Sauce
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12 large pasta shells
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1 cup non-alcoholic chicken broth
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil or butter
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1/4 cup Cajun seasoning (for sauce)
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Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta Shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly. -
Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, mozzarella, half the Parmesan, 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. -
Stuff the Shells
Fill each pasta shell generously with the creamy chicken mixture. Place them in a lightly greased baking dish in a single layer. -
Prepare the Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt butter or heat oil over medium heat. Add the remaining Cajun seasoning and stir in the chicken broth. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors. -
Assemble & Bake
Pour the sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
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Garnish & Serve
Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
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Use rotisserie chicken for faster prep.
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Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes if you like extra heat.
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This recipe is freezer-friendly—assemble, freeze, and bake when ready.
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You can substitute ricotta for cream cheese if you prefer a milder flavor.
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Don’t overcook pasta shells or they may tear while stuffing.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 stuffed shells
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg