If you’re looking for a dish that combines romance with irresistible flavor, look no further than Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells. This recipe takes the viral sensation of Marry Me Chicken—known for its creamy, savory sauce that’s so good it might just inspire a proposal—and transforms it into a hearty, comforting pasta dish. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special date night at home, this meal is all about indulgence and love in every bite.
The magic of this dish lies in its tender jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a rich, cheesy chicken filling, then smothered in a luscious, creamy sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes and Italian herbs. It’s a standout among chicken recipes and pasta recipes, offering a unique twist on traditional stuffed shells that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
In this post, I’ll walk you through every step to create this unforgettable easy pasta dinner. From the ingredients to the preparation, you’ll find all the tips and tricks to make this comfort food masterpiece in your own kitchen. Let’s dive into this Italian-inspired delight!
Introduction
There’s something undeniably special about a dish that carries a name like Marry Me Chicken. Legend has it that this creamy, dreamy chicken recipe is so delicious, it could prompt a marriage proposal on the spot! While I can’t guarantee a ring, I can promise that turning this concept into Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells will win over hearts and taste buds alike. It’s the ultimate fusion of tender pasta, succulent chicken, and a sauce that’s pure magic.
This recipe is ideal for anyone craving an Italian recipe that feels both familiar and elevated. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or hosting a small dinner party, these stuffed shells bring warmth and comfort to the table. The creamy sauce, packed with flavors of garlic, parmesan, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, pairs perfectly with the cheesy filling, making it a standout among weeknight dinner options.
I’ve crafted this dish to be approachable, even for beginner cooks, while still delivering restaurant-quality results. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to create a meal that’s as memorable as it is delicious. Let’s explore how to bring this chicken pasta dream to life!
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Category: Main Dish, Pasta, Chicken
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6
What You’ll Need
Creating the perfect Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells requires a harmonious blend of ingredients, each playing a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of the key components and why they matter in this creamy chicken dish:
- Jumbo Pasta Shells: These act as the vessel for the filling, holding all the cheesy, chicken goodness in every bite. Their size makes them perfect for stuffing.
- Chicken: Cooked and shredded, it provides a hearty protein base that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Ricotta and Mozzarella: These cheeses create a smooth, melty filling that contrasts with the tangy sauce.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They add a burst of umami and slight sweetness, a signature element of Marry Me Chicken.
- Heavy Cream: The backbone of the luscious sauce, giving it a velvety texture that ties the dish together.
- Garlic and Italian Seasoning: These aromatics infuse the dish with classic Italian recipe flavors.
Comforting Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells you can make today
INGREDIENTS
- – 12 oz jumbo pasta shells
- – 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- – 1 cup ricotta cheese
- – 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- – 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- – 1 large egg
- – 2 tbsp olive oil
- – 3 cloves garlic, minced
- – 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- – 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- – 1/2 cup chicken broth
- – 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- – 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- – Salt and pepper to taste
- – Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
PREPARATION
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells in a large pot of boiling, salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well blended. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread a thin layer of the creamy sauce (about 1/2 cup) on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the chicken and cheese mixture, then arrange them in the baking dish in a single layer.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well-coated. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the sauce is slightly golden at the edges.
- Remove from the oven, let cool for 5 minutes, and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
NUTRITION INFORMATION
- Calories: 520 per serving
- Total Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 480mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells
When preparing stuffed shells, slightly undercook the pasta during the boiling step to prevent it from becoming too soft during baking. Additionally, use a piping bag or a small spoon to make filling the shells easier and less messy. This ensures an even distribution of the creamy chicken mixture.
Customizing the Sauce
The sauce in this Marry Me Chicken recipe is highly adaptable. For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk, though note that the texture will be less rich.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This easy pasta dinner is perfect for meal prep. Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete Italian recipe experience. A glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the creamy sauce beautifully, making it an ideal choice for a romantic weeknight dinner.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re out of ricotta, cottage cheese can be a suitable substitute in the filling, though it may alter the texture slightly. For a vegetarian twist on this chicken pasta, replace the chicken with sautéed spinach or mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free option.
Why This Dish is a Crowd-Pleaser
The combination of familiar comfort food elements with the unique, indulgent flavors of Marry Me Chicken makes this dish universally appealing. It’s rich without being overwhelming, and the presentation of stuffed shells adds a touch of elegance to any meal.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells?
Yes, this dish freezes wonderfully! Assemble the stuffed shells in a freezer-safe dish without baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! If jumbo shells aren’t available, you can substitute with manicotti or even large rigatoni. Keep in mind that the stuffing process might vary slightly, but the flavors of this chicken pasta dish will still shine through.
How can I make this dish lighter?
To lighten up this creamy chicken recipe, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for the sauce, and opt for low-fat ricotta and mozzarella cheeses. You can also reduce the amount of cheese in the filling while still maintaining a delicious result.
Comforting Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells you can make today
Conclusion
Bringing the flavors of Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells to your table is a surefire way to create a memorable meal. This dish encapsulates everything we love about comfort food—it’s warm, hearty, and packed with flavor, yet it carries an air of sophistication that makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or simply treating yourself to a delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
I’d love to hear how this easy pasta dinner turns out for you! Drop a comment below with your thoughts, or share your own twists on this Italian recipe. For more inspiration, check out other chicken recipes and pasta recipes on the blog, and don’t forget to subscribe for the latest updates delivered straight to your inbox. Happy cooking!
