Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Shells

Name: Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 3 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups shredded chicken; 1 (16 oz) ricotta cheese, whipped; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup Buffalo sauce (like Frank’s Red Hot); 16 oz large shell pasta; Salt and pepper to taste (optional); 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese

Isabella

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Indulge in the irresistible flavor of Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Shells, a dish that beautifully blends the heat of buffalo chicken with the comfort of baked pasta. These tender pasta shells are filled with a creamy, spicy mixture of shredded chicken and ricotta, then topped with gooey Monterey Jack cheese. Perfect for game day or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

3 cups shredded chicken

1 (16 oz) ricotta cheese, whipped

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1 cup Buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s Red Hot)

16 oz large shell pasta

Salt and pepper to taste (optional)

2 cups Monterey Jack cheese

Directions:

Prepare the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, reheat the shredded chicken for a few minutes until warm.

Mix the Filling: Melt the butter in the skillet with the chicken, then stir in the Buffalo sauce. Squeeze out excess liquid from the ricotta cheese using cheesecloth and combine it with the Buffalo chicken mixture. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours to let the flavors meld.

Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil and cook the large shell pasta until just before al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

Fill the Shells: Using a cookie scoop, fill each shell with the chilled Buffalo chicken and ricotta mixture. Arrange the filled shells in the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the Monterey Jack cheese on top.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, ensuring the shells remain tender and not crispy.

Serve: Enjoy the stuffed shells warm, straight from the oven.

Serving Tips:

Garnish: Add a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing over the stuffed shells before serving for an extra layer of flavor. You can also sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh parsley on top for color.

Pairing: Serve with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread to round out the meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the stuffed shells nicely.

Temperature: These stuffed shells are best served warm. If they sit out for a while, you can reheat them in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) until warmed through.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed shells. Assemble them in the baking dish but do not bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil before placing in the freezer. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw the frozen stuffed shells in the refrigerator overnight. Bake in the oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. If the cheese appears to be browning too quickly, cover the dish with foil.

Individual Portions: For easy meal prep, consider portioning the stuffed shells into individual containers before storing. This makes reheating convenient and reduces waste.

Related Recipes:

Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

FAQs:

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of shredded chicken?

Yes! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe. It saves time and adds flavor. Just shred the meat and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the shredded chicken with cooked and chopped vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. You can also use a meat substitute like chickpeas or lentils mixed with buffalo sauce.

How can I make the dish less spicy?

To reduce the spice level, use a milder buffalo sauce or mix it with cream cheese or sour cream to tone down the heat. You can also omit the buffalo sauce and substitute it with a different sauce of your choice.

Can I prepare the stuffed shells in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells up to a day in advance. Just cover the baking dish tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting them in the oven, or you can bake them directly from the fridge, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion:

Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Shells are a fantastic way to bring excitement to your dinner table. With their creamy, spicy filling and cheesy topping, they are bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, these stuffed shells will deliver a delightful and satisfying meal.

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