Introduction

Imagine the aroma of spicy buffalo sauce mixed with tender chicken, all enveloped in creamy, cheesy shells – that’s what you get with this buffalo chicken stuffed shells recipe. Whether you’re a fan of buffalo wings or just looking to spice up your dinner routine, these easy creamy buffalo chicken shells are sure to become a family favorite. Combining the flavors of buffalo chicken with pasta creates the perfect harmony of comfort and zing, making it an ideal dish for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal.

Buffalo chicken stuffed shells are a delightful twist on the classic stuffed shells recipe, offering a unique blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The creamy texture of the filling complements the slight crunch of the pasta shells, creating a mouthwatering experience with every bite. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients to suit your preferences.

Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner with friends or preparing a cozy family meal, these best buffalo chicken stuffed pasta shells are a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. The homemade buffalo chicken filling is easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for meal prep. Get ready to dive into a plate of flavorful buffalo chicken stuffed shells that will leave you craving more!

So, let’s delve into the world of creamy buffalo chicken pasta shells and discover how to create this delectable dish that brings together the bold flavors of buffalo chicken with the comfort of stuffed pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These buffalo chicken stuffed shells offer a harmonious blend of flavors, combining the tangy heat of buffalo sauce with the richness of creamy cheese and tender chicken. The dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights when you want a quick and satisfying meal.

For those following a low-carb lifestyle, this recipe can be easily adapted to be low carb buffalo chicken stuffed shells by using cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles as a filling alternative. Additionally, these buffalo chicken stuffed shells can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta shells and ensuring that all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

One of the best features of this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the level of spiciness to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer a mild heat or an extra kick of spice. The creamy buffalo chicken pasta shells can also be topped with blue cheese crumbles for an added burst of flavor that complements the buffalo sauce perfectly.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, these quick buffalo chicken shells are a fantastic recipe to have in your repertoire. The simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps make this dish a winner every time, guaranteeing a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

For this buffalo chicken stuffed shells recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

– Jumbo pasta shells: 1 box

– Cooked chicken: 2 cups, shredded

– Cream cheese: 8 oz, softened

– Buffalo sauce: 1 cup

– Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 ½ cups

– Ranch dressing: ½ cup

– Blue cheese crumbles: ½ cup (optional)

– Celery, chopped: ½ cup

– Green onions, chopped: ¼ cup

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Cooking spray

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding or omitting ingredients based on your preferences. You can also substitute the chicken with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version of this dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

3. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, chopped celery, and green onions. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

4. Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture into the cooked pasta shells and place them in the prepared baking dish.

5. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese over the stuffed shells and, if desired, add blue cheese crumbles on top.

6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown slightly.

8. Once the buffalo chicken stuffed shells are cooked through and the cheese is golden, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Expert Tips for Success

– Make sure to generously season the buffalo chicken mixture with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of the dish.

– For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the filling mixture.

– If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the buffalo chicken mixture in a food processor before filling the pasta shells.

– To save time, you can prepare the buffalo chicken filling in advance and refrigerate it until you are ready to assemble and bake the stuffed shells.

Variations and Substitutions

There are endless ways to customize this buffalo chicken stuffed shells recipe to suit your preferences:

– For a keto-friendly version, substitute the pasta shells with cooked spaghetti squash or zucchini boats.

– If you’re a fan of heat, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of hot sauce to the filling mixture.

– To make this dish dairy-free, use dairy-free cream cheese and mozzarella cheese alternatives.

– Experiment with different cheese blends such as cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda for unique flavor profiles.

– For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with plant-based protein sources like chickpeas or lentils.

Serving Suggestions

These buffalo chicken stuffed shells are delicious on their own but can be elevated with some tasty accompaniments:

– Serve the stuffed shells with a side of crisp, fresh celery sticks and carrot sticks to balance out the richness of the dish.

– Drizzle some extra ranch dressing or buffalo sauce over the stuffed shells before serving for an added burst of flavor.

– Pair this dish with a refreshing cucumber salad or a tangy coleslaw to complement the spicy buffalo chicken flavors.

– Complete the meal with a cool beverage like iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer to quench your thirst while enjoying the zesty flavors of the dish.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze the buffalo chicken stuffed shells?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked stuffed shells for up to 3 months. Simply assemble the dish as instructed, cover tightly with foil, and store in the freezer. When ready to bake, allow the stuffed shells to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.

2. How can I make this recipe less spicy?

If you prefer a milder version of this dish, you can reduce the amount of buffalo sauce used in the filling mixture or opt for a mild buffalo sauce variety. You can also mix some sour cream or Greek yogurt into the filling to help balance out the heat.

3. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the chicken with ground turkey, cooked sausage, or even shrimp for a unique twist on this recipe. Adjust the cooking times accordingly based on the protein you choose.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, these buffalo chicken stuffed shells are a delightful fusion of bold flavors and comforting textures that make for a satisfying meal anytime. Whether you’re a buffalo chicken enthusiast or simply looking to try something new, this recipe offers a perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and cheesiness that will leave you craving more.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and treat yourself to a plate of creamy buffalo chicken goodness that is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these buffalo chicken stuffed shells are bound to impress and satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Enjoy the deliciousness of homemade buffalo chicken stuffed shells under 30 minutes!