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Creamy Cajun Chicken Shells

Highlight: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

Creamy Cajun chicken shells are packed with flavor and comfort. Rotisserie chicken, vibrant Cajun seasoning, and a rich cheese blend come together in stuffed jumbo shells baked in a silky cream sauce. This dish is easy to prep ahead, freezes beautifully, and brings Southern flair to your dinner table. The spice level is easily adjustable, making it ideal for any crowd. Serve with garlic bread or salad for a complete, cozy meal any night of the week.

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Luna chef wearing a white shirt.
Crafted By Luna
Updated on Thu, 19 Jun 2025 17:41:06 GMT
A bowl of pasta with chicken and cheese. Save
A bowl of pasta with chicken and cheese. | myhomemademeal.com

Savor the flavors of rich creamy Cajun chicken stuffed shells. Tender jumbo pasta shells are generously filled with a flavorful blend of shredded chicken ricotta mozzarella and vibrant spices. These are then blanketed with a silky spiced cream sauce and baked until perfectly bubbly. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions this dish pairs hearty comfort with a touch of Creole inspired flair.

  • Jumbo pasta shells: Choose ones that feel sturdy as they need to hold up to stuffing and baking
  • Rotisserie chicken: Saves time and adds depth of flavor compared to plain boiled chicken
  • Cajun seasoning: The heart of this recipe look for brands with balanced heat and herbs
  • Bell pepper: Adds sweetness and authentic Cajun trinity flavor
  • Ricotta cheese: Creates creamy texture while holding the filling together
  • Three cheese blend: Mozzarella for stretch parmesan for umami and ricotta for creaminess
  • Heavy cream: Essential for creating a silky sauce that will not break when baked

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook The Pasta:
Boil jumbo shells in heavily salted water for exactly 2 minutes less than package directions They should be very al dente as they will continue cooking in the oven Immediately rinse with cold water after draining to stop the cooking process and make them easier to handle for stuffing
Prepare The Filling:
Sauté onions and peppers until they become translucent but not browned about 5 minutes Add garlic just at the end to prevent burning This aromatic base flavors the entire dish so take your time with this step When you add the chicken and spices allow them to warm together so the chicken absorbs the Cajun flavor
Make The Sauce:
Create a proper roux by cooking the butter and flour together until it smells slightly nutty but has not browned about 60 seconds The sauce thickening happens gradually as you whisk in the liquids pour them slowly in a steady stream while whisking constantly The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when properly thickened
Assemble And Bake:
Spoon filling generously into each shell the pasta will appear overstuffed but will settle during baking Arrange shells in sauce with the openings facing upward to catch extra sauce and cheese Cover tightly with foil for the first baking phase to trap moisture then uncover to allow cheese to develop golden spots
A plate of pasta with meat and cheese. Save
A plate of pasta with meat and cheese. | myhomemademeal.com

Storage Tips

These stuffed shells actually improve in flavor after a day in the refrigerator as the spices meld Store leftover shells in an airtight container for up to 4 days When reheating add a splash of milk or cream to the container to revive the sauce that may have thickened in the refrigerator Cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through about 20 minutes

Ingredient Substitutions

If jumbo shells are unavailable try using manicotti tubes or even layering the filling in between sheets of cooked lasagna for a different twist You can also replace ricotta with cottage cheese if you prefer a lighter taste or use a different blend of cheese that includes provolone or fontina

Serving Suggestions

Serve these creamy stuffed shells with a crisp green salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness A slice of garlic bread or toasted baguette rounds out the meal beautifully and soaks up the extra sauce Add a chilled glass of white wine or sweet tea for a Southern style dinner

Spice Level Adjustments

The beauty of Cajun cuisine lies in its adaptability to your heat preference For a milder version cut the Cajun seasoning in half and increase the paprika For those who enjoy more heat add a diced jalapeño to the pepper and onion mix or incorporate a teaspoon of cayenne into the sauce Remember that the dairy components will temper some heat so you can be slightly more generous with spices than you might normally

A bowl of pasta with tomatoes and cheese. Save
A bowl of pasta with tomatoes and cheese. | myhomemademeal.com

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes rotisserie chicken is perfect for this dish. It adds flavor and saves time in preparation.

→ What if I cannot find jumbo pasta shells?

You can substitute with manicotti or layer the filling between lasagna sheets for a similar effect.

→ How spicy is this dish?

The heat level is moderate but customizable. Add more Cajun seasoning or include diced jalapeños if desired.

→ Can I make these shells ahead of time?

Yes assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

→ What sides go well with Cajun chicken shells?

Fresh green salad and garlic bread are great pairings for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Shells

Creamy stuffed shells with Cajun spice, chicken and rich cheese blend for a bold and cozy dinner.

Prep Time
25 minutes
Cooking Duration
30 minutes
Overall Time
55 minutes
Crafted By: Luna

Recipe Type: Main Dishes

Preparation Complexity: Moderate Challenge

Regional Cuisine: Creole-Inspired American

Servings Output: 6 Serving Size (20 stuffed shells)

Dietary Choices: ~

Everything You’ll Need

→ Filling

01 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
02 1 cup ricotta cheese
03 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
04 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
05 1 small bell pepper, finely diced
06 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
07 2 cloves garlic, minced
08 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

→ Pasta

09 20 jumbo pasta shells
10 Salt for boiling water

→ Sauce

11 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
12 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
13 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
14 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
15 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
16 Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Topping

17 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
18 Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Steps to Cook

Step 01

Boil the jumbo pasta shells in heavily salted water for 2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to halt cooking.

Step 02

Sauté chopped onion and bell pepper in a skillet over medium heat until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in shredded chicken and Cajun seasoning. Remove from heat and combine with ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan in a large bowl.

Step 03

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until nutty but not browned. Gradually whisk in heavy cream. Add Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 04

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of sauce in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Fill each pasta shell generously with the chicken mixture and arrange upright in the dish.

Step 05

Pour remaining sauce over stuffed shells. Sprinkle with mozzarella topping. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Step 06

Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with salad or garlic bread.

Extra Suggestions

  1. Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
  2. Let shells cool before stuffing to prevent melted filling and burned fingers.
  3. Can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead and stored refrigerated before baking.

Must-Have Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Skillet for sautéing vegetables
  • Saucepan for cream sauce
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Aluminum foil

Allergy Information

Always check ingredient details for potential allergens. Consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains dairy from cheese and cream
  • Contains gluten from pasta and flour

Nutritional Highlights (per portion)

Nutritional information is shared for guidance and isn't meant to replace expert medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 560
  • Fat Breakdown: 32 grams
  • Carbohydrate Breakdown: 34 grams
  • Protein Count: 28 grams