Ultimate Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells Dinner

Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells are not just a meal; they’re an experience. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey where comfort food meets an exhilarating flavor explosion!

A Beloved Fusion of Flavors and Comfort

Imagine this: tender jumbo pasta shells, each one generously filled with a luscious, cheesy, and perfectly spiced buffalo chicken mixture, all baked to golden perfection under a blanket of even more cheese. This unique dish masterfully marries the bold, tangy, and spicy kick of classic Buffalo wings, a culinary icon born in Buffalo, New York, with the comforting embrace of traditional Italian-American stuffed pasta. It’s a testament to how diverse culinary traditions can come together to create something truly spectacular and universally adored.

There’s a compelling reason why this dish has captured so many hearts. People adore its incredible flavor profile – the perfect balance of heat from the buffalo sauce, the cool creaminess of the cheese, and the savory chicken, all nestled within perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the ultimate comfort food, offering both convenience as a hearty, complete meal and an irresistible taste that makes it a consistent crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a game night or simply craving a flavorful, soul-satisfying dinner, our recipe for Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells promises to deliver an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. I’m so excited for you to try this!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Jumbo Pasta Shells:

• 1 (12-ounce) box jumbo pasta shells (approximately 30-35 shells)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking water)
• 1 teaspoon salt (for cooking water)

• For the Creamy Buffalo Chicken Filling:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or finely diced (about 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs)
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup buffalo wing sauce (I prefer a medium heat for balanced flavor, but adjust to your preference!)
• ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, but highly recommended for that classic buffalo flavor profile!)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup finely chopped celery (adds a nice crunch and fresh note)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives or green onions
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• For the Rich & Creamy Buffalo Cheese Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk, warmed (this helps prevent lumps!)
• ½ cup buffalo wing sauce
• ½ cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for an extra kick)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

• For Topping and Garnish:

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, for final flourish)
• Fresh chopped parsley, chives, or green onions for garnish
• Additional buffalo sauce or ranch/blue cheese dressing for serving (if desired)

Phase 1: Preparing the Chicken for Your “Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells”

The foundation of our incredibly delicious Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells begins with perfectly cooked and seasoned chicken. There are a few ways to prepare the chicken, so choose the method that works best for your schedule and preferences. My go-to is often boiling or baking for ease.

1. Cook the Chicken:
   • Boiling Method: Place 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in a pot and cover with water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method results in very tender chicken that shreds beautifully.
   • Baking Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season 1 pound of chicken breasts or thighs with a little salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This can add a slightly more roasted flavor.
   • Instant Pot Method: For a quick option, place 1 pound of chicken and 1 cup of water or broth in your Instant Pot. Pressure cook on high for 8-10 minutes (depending on thickness), followed by a natural release for 5 minutes, then a quick release.

   Once cooked, remove the chicken from the liquid or oven and let it rest for a few minutes.

2. Shred or Dice the Chicken: Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken into small pieces. Alternatively, you can finely dice the chicken. For stuffed shells, I find that a finely shredded texture works best as it mixes more evenly with the creamy ingredients and is easier to stuff into the shells. Aim for about 2 cups of shredded chicken. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Creamy Buffalo Chicken Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, ½ cup buffalo wing sauce, ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese (if using), ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese, ¼ cup finely chopped celery, 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives or green onions, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
4. Mix Thoroughly: Using a sturdy spoon or your hands (wearing gloves is a good idea here!), mix all the ingredients together until they are very well combined and the cream cheese is fully incorporated into the chicken. The mixture should be thick and creamy. Give it a taste and adjust seasonings if needed – perhaps a little more buffalo sauce for extra kick, or a pinch of salt if your chicken wasn’t heavily seasoned. This is your delicious filling for the Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells.

Phase 2: Cooking the Jumbo Pasta Shells

Cooking the pasta shells correctly is crucial for the success of your Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells. We want them pliable enough to stuff but not so soft that they fall apart during handling or baking.

1. Bring Water to a Rolling Boil: In a large pot, bring plenty of water to a rolling boil. I always use a generous amount of water to give the pasta room to move and prevent sticking. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of salt to the water. The olive oil helps prevent the shells from sticking together, and the salt seasons the pasta from the inside out.
2. Cook the Jumbo Shells: Carefully add the jumbo pasta shells to the boiling water. Stir gently to ensure they don’t stick to the bottom of the pot. Cook according to package directions for al dente, which is usually around 10-12 minutes. It’s very important not to overcook them! You want them to be firm enough to hold their shape and withstand stuffing, as they will continue to cook in the oven. If they are too soft, they will tear easily.
3. Drain and Rinse: Once cooked al dente, immediately drain the shells in a colander. Rinse them briefly under cold water. This stops the cooking process and prevents them from sticking together. Gently separate any shells that might have stuck. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a clean kitchen towel to cool completely. This prevents them from steaming and becoming mushy while you prepare the sauce. Having them ready and cooled will make the stuffing process much easier and quicker.

Phase 3: Crafting the Rich & Creamy Buffalo Cheese Sauce

This luscious, cheesy, and spicy sauce is what truly brings the “creamy” and “buffalo” to our Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells. It’s a béchamel-based sauce, enriched with cheese and that signature buffalo kick.

1. Melt the Butter and Create a Roux: In a medium-sized saucepan or Dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and slightly shimmering, sprinkle in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes, creating a smooth paste known as a roux. This step is crucial for thickening your sauce and cooking out the raw flour taste. The roux should be pale yellow, not browned.
2. Gradually Whisk in Milk: Slowly pour in the 3 cups of warmed whole milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Adding warm milk helps to incorporate more smoothly than cold milk. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken. This will take about 5-7 minutes. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon. If you get any lumps, don’t despair! You can usually whisk them out vigorously, or if persistent, a quick pass with an immersion blender (off the heat) can fix it.
3. Add Buffalo Flavor and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in ½ cup buffalo wing sauce, ½ cup crumbled blue cheese, 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Also, add ¼ teaspoon garlic powder and a pinch of cayenne pepper if you desire an extra touch of heat.
4. Melt and Season: Continue to stir gently until all the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. The heat should be low to prevent the cheese from seizing or the sauce from scorching. Taste the sauce and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remember that buffalo sauce can be salty, and blue cheese also contributes salinity, so season carefully. I often find I need less salt than usual. The consistency should be thick enough to cling to the shells but still pourable. Keep the sauce warm over very low heat while you stuff the shells, stirring occasionally.

Phase 4: Assembling Your “Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells”

Now comes the fun part – bringing all the components together to create your magnificent Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells! This is where the magic truly happens.

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little butter.
2. Spread a Thin Layer of Sauce: Ladle about ½ to ¾ cup of the creamy buffalo cheese sauce into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly. This layer will prevent the shells from sticking and infuse them with flavor from the bottom up.
3. Stuff the Pasta Shells: Take one cooled jumbo pasta shell at a time. Carefully open it slightly with your fingers. Using a small spoon or your fingers, generously fill each shell with the creamy buffalo chicken mixture. Don’t be shy – really pack it in there, but be gentle not to tear the shell. I usually aim for a good tablespoon and a half to two tablespoons per shell, depending on the shell size. This is a satisfying process that promises a hearty bite of flavor in every shell.
4. Arrange Shells in Baking Dish: As each shell is stuffed, arrange it in the prepared baking dish. Place them seam-side up (or open-side up) in a single layer. You can snuggle them close together, fitting as many as you can into the dish. Depending on the size of your shells and dish, you’ll likely fit 28-32 shells. Don’t worry if you have a few extra shells or filling; they make for great little test bites or extra treats!
5. Generously Cover with Remaining Sauce: Pour the remaining rich & creamy buffalo cheese sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Make sure every shell is nicely coated and nestled in the sauce. This ensures they stay moist and absorb all that wonderful flavor during baking.
6. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and an optional ¼ cup of crumbled blue cheese over the top of the sauce-covered shells. This final layer of cheese will melt into a golden, bubbling crust, adding another dimension of flavor and texture to your Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells.

Phase 5: Baking Your “Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells” to Perfection

The baking process is where all the flavors meld together and the dish becomes an irresistible, bubbling masterpiece. Your kitchen will start to smell absolutely amazing!

1. Prepare for Baking: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps to keep the moisture in, allowing the shells to gently finish cooking and the flavors to meld without drying out.
2. Bake: Place the covered dish in your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 25 minutes.
3. Uncover and Continue Baking: After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil. The sauce should be bubbly around the edges. Return the uncovered dish to the oven and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. If you prefer a darker, crispier cheese topping, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch it very closely to prevent burning!
4. Check for Doneness: The sauce should be bubbling vigorously, and the cheese should be fully melted and possibly lightly browned. The shells should feel tender when pierced with a fork.

Phase 6: Serving Suggestions & Enjoying Your “Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells”

The anticipation is finally over! It’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor and savor these incredible Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells.

1. Rest Before Serving: Once removed from the oven, let the baking dish rest on a wire rack for 5-10 minutes. This resting period is important because it allows the sauce to set slightly, preventing it from being too runny when you serve, and also makes it easier to scoop out neat portions without scalding yourself. Plus, it gives all those incredible flavors a moment to truly settle.
2. Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley, chives, or green onions. The fresh herbs add a lovely pop of color and a fresh counterpoint to the rich, creamy dish. If you saved some extra blue cheese crumbles, a final scatter over the top is a fantastic touch for blue cheese lovers.
3. Serve Warm: Carefully scoop out individual portions of the Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells onto plates. Be sure to get plenty of that delicious sauce with each shell!
4. Complementary Sides: These shells are quite hearty on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a simple crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of roasted broccoli or steamed green beans would also be excellent. For those who can’t get enough buffalo flavor, offer extra buffalo sauce on the side, or even some ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, just like with traditional buffalo wings!
5. Storage: Leftovers of your Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells store beautifully! Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave (for individual portions) or cover and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce seems too thick.

There you have it! A truly satisfying and incredibly flavorful dish that is perfect for a comforting family dinner or a crowd-pleasing party meal. Enjoy every cheesy, buffalo-spiced bite of your homemade Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve journeyed through the creation of what I truly believe is a show-stopping dish, a culinary triumph that effortlessly marries comfort food with a kick. If you’ve been searching for that one recipe that breaks the monotony of weeknight dinners or truly impresses guests at your next gathering, then look no further. This isn’t just another pasta bake; it’s an experience. The moment you pull this bubbling, golden masterpiece from the oven, the aroma alone will tell you you’ve done something special. It’s the kind of dish that disappears quickly, leaving a trail of happy sighs and requests for the recipe. I’m absolutely confident that once you take that first forkful, you’ll understand exactly why I’m so enthusiastic. The combination of tender pasta, savory chicken, and that irresistible, spiced creaminess creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is truly unparalleled. It’s a dish that feels both familiar and excitingly new all at once.

What sets this particular recipe apart is its incredible balance. We’ve managed to capture all the beloved elements of classic buffalo chicken – the tangy heat, the rich chicken flavor – and transform them into a decadent, cheesy filling for pasta shells. The creaminess acts as a beautiful counterpoint to the spice, ensuring that every bite is satisfyingly smooth while still delivering that signature buffalo zing. It’s warm, it’s hearty, and it’s undeniably delicious. I’ve made this for countless friends and family, and the reaction is always the same: pure, unadulterated joy. It’s a dish that brings people together, sparking conversations and smiles around the dinner table. You might find yourself making this on repeat, not just because it’s easy to prepare, but because everyone will be begging for more. It truly satisfies that deep craving for something comforting yet exciting.

This recipe transforms humble ingredients into something truly extraordinary. It’s a dish that looks impressive but is surprisingly approachable for home cooks of all skill levels. There’s a real sense of accomplishment when you serve up something this flavorful and satisfying, knowing you’ve created a meal that will be remembered long after the last shell is devoured. The delightful texture of the al dente shells, embracing the luscious filling, makes every bite a moment to savor. It’s robust enough to be a complete meal on its own, yet versatile enough to welcome various accompaniments.

Elevate Your Dining Experience: Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations

While the Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells are undeniably a star on their own, there are so many wonderful ways to serve them and even more creative variations to explore, allowing you to tailor this dish to your personal taste and dietary needs. For a balanced meal, I love pairing these hearty shells with a crisp, refreshing side salad. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette, perhaps a lemon-herb dressing, cuts through the richness beautifully and adds a welcome freshness. Another fantastic option is steamed or roasted green vegetables. Think about serving some tender asparagus spears, broccoli florets, or even some garlicky green beans alongside. Their vibrant colors and slightly earthy flavors provide a lovely contrast to the creamy pasta, making your plate look as appealing as it tastes.

If you’re hosting a more casual get-together, don’t hesitate to offer a variety of toppings right at the table. A bowl of extra crumbled blue cheese for those who can’t get enough of that pungent tang is always a hit. A drizzle of your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing offers another layer of creamy coolness, especially for those who prefer a milder heat. Freshly chopped chives or parsley sprinkled over the top not only add a pop of color but also a subtle herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can kick up the heat for spice lovers, while a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice can add an unexpected zing that enhances the buffalo flavor.

Now, let’s talk about variations! The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. For those who prefer a less spicy kick, you can easily adjust the amount of hot sauce in the filling. Start with less and taste as you go, adding more until it’s perfect for you. If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, don’t fret! A sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked gouda can be a delicious substitute, offering a different but equally delightful cheesy profile. For a leaner option, you could experiment with ground turkey instead of chicken, or even finely shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker prep time. Vegetarian friends? Absolutely! Consider a plant-based ‘chicken’ substitute or create a flavorful filling using finely diced roasted cauliflower, chickpeas, and a hearty blend of spices to mimic the buffalo flavor, ensuring everyone can enjoy a version of this incredible dish. You could also add a layer of spinach or finely chopped bell peppers to the filling for added vegetables and texture. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your cheese blend either; a mix of mozzarella and provolone could offer an even meltier, stringier experience. The possibilities truly are endless, and each variation presents an exciting new way to enjoy the core concept of these incredibly satisfying stuffed shells.

Your Turn to Create and Share!

So, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves and dive into making this absolutely phenomenal recipe. Trust me, the effort is minimal compared to the incredible reward you’ll reap in flavor and satisfaction. This is more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to create something truly delicious and memorable in your own kitchen. And once you’ve experienced the magic for yourself, I would absolutely love to hear about it! Please, share your creations, your serving suggestions, and any brilliant variations you come up with. Did you add extra cheese? A different kind of hot sauce? What did your family and friends think? Your feedback and culinary adventures inspire me and our entire community of food lovers. Let’s spread the deliciousness together!

Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells

Tender jumbo pasta shells generously filled with a luscious, cheesy, and spicy buffalo chicken mixture, baked to golden perfection. This dish combines the bold flavors of Buffalo wings with the comforting embrace of traditional stuffed pasta for a truly satisfying meal.

Prep Time
25 Minutes

Cook Time
35 Minutes

Total Time
1 Hours

Servings
12 shells

Ingredients

• 12 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 4 ounce cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water to prevent sticking, and set aside.
2. Step 2
   In a large bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup buffalo sauce, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, and half of the chopped green onions. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
3. Step 3
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the remaining 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (or mix it with some ranch dressing) evenly at the bottom of the prepared dish. Fill each cooked shell generously with the chicken mixture and arrange them in a single layer in the baking dish.
4. Step 4
   Top the stuffed shells with the remaining 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
5. Step 5
   Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with the remaining chopped green onions. Serve warm with 1/4 cup ranch dressing on the side for dipping, if desired.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.