Cheesy Bacon Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe
There’s something truly magical about combining the creamy, savory flavors of cheese, bacon, and chicken. When you stuff these ingredients into jumbo pasta shells and bake them to perfection, the result is a comfort food masterpiece that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
Cheesy Bacon Chicken Stuffed Shells are the epitome of a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or simply when you’re craving something deliciously rich and comforting.
This recipe takes traditional stuffed shells to the next level by incorporating tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a blend of cheeses into a creamy, savory filling.
The dish is then baked with a luscious, cheesy sauce that ties everything together, resulting in a meal that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward enough to tackle but impressive enough to wow your guests.
In this article, we’ll guide you through every step of making Cheesy Bacon Chicken Stuffed Shells, from selecting the best ingredients to perfecting the cooking process.
Along the way, we’ll share tips and tricks to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
What Makes Cheesy Bacon Chicken Stuffed Shells Special?
A Rich, Creamy Filling
The heart of this dish is the filling, which combines shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a mixture of cheeses. The richness of the filling comes from a blend of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, creating a creamy, gooey interior that’s packed with flavor.
The bacon adds a smoky, salty contrast to the mildness of the chicken and the creaminess of the cheeses.
Jumbo Pasta Shells: The Perfect Vessel
Jumbo pasta shells are the ideal vessel for this rich filling. Their large size makes them easy to stuff, and their ridged surface helps hold onto the creamy sauce that’s poured over them before baking. As the shells bake, they become tender and slightly chewy, providing the perfect contrast to the creamy filling.
A Versatile Dish
Cheesy Bacon Chicken Stuffed Shells are incredibly versatile. You can easily customize the filling to suit your preferences or use up leftover ingredients in your fridge.
Whether you prefer a spicier version with jalapeños and hot sauce or a milder version with extra vegetables, this recipe can be adapted to your taste.
Ideal for Meal Prep
This dish is also a great option for meal prep. You can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to bake.
This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or when you want to have a delicious meal ready to go in advance.
Ingredients Needed for Cheesy Bacon Chicken Stuffed Shells
To make this indulgent dish, you’ll need a combination of fresh ingredients and pantry staples. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
Essential Ingredients
- Jumbo Pasta Shells: One 12-ounce package of jumbo pasta shells.
- Chicken: 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Bacon: 6 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled.
- Cream Cheese: One 8-ounce package of cream cheese, softened.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced.
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning for added flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
For the Sauce
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup of heavy cream for a rich, creamy sauce.
- Chicken Broth: 1 cup of chicken broth to add depth to the sauce.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
- Flour: 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese for the sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese for the sauce.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley for garnish.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- Spinach: 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach, sautéed and added to the filling.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: ¼ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tangy flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Lemon Zest: The zest of one lemon for a fresh, citrusy note.
Preparing the Ingredients
Cooking the Pasta Shells
Begin by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook them al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Once cooked, drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside on a baking sheet to cool and prevent them from sticking together.
Preparing the Chicken
If you’re using rotisserie chicken, simply shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. If you’re cooking the chicken from scratch, you can poach, grill, or bake the chicken breasts until fully cooked, then shred them using two forks. Season the chicken with a little salt and pepper.
Cooking the Bacon
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, then crumble it into small pieces. The crispy bacon will add a wonderful crunch and smoky flavor to the filling.
Making the Creamy Chicken and Bacon Filling
Combining the Filling Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything together until well combined. The cream cheese should be smooth and creamy, making it easy to mix with the other ingredients.
Seasoning the Filling
Taste the filling and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you’re adding optional ingredients like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or red pepper flakes, mix them into the filling at this stage. The filling should be rich, creamy, and full of flavor.
Stuffing the Shells
Filling the Pasta Shells
Once the pasta shells have cooled, it’s time to stuff them. Use a spoon to fill each shell with the creamy chicken and bacon mixture. Be generous with the filling, ensuring each shell is packed full of the delicious mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a single layer in a greased baking dish, arranging them so they’re snug but not overlapping.
Preparing the Sauce
Making the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously to create a roux. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, then slowly whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Continue whisking until the sauce begins to thicken.
Adding the Cheese
Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Assembling and Baking the Dish
Pouring the Sauce Over the Shells
Once the sauce is ready, pour it evenly over the stuffed shells in the baking dish. The sauce should completely cover the shells, ensuring they stay moist and flavorful as they bake. If you have any extra shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the top for an extra cheesy finish.
Baking the Stuffed Shells
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the stuffed shells for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown. If you like a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Bringing It All Together
Garnishing the Dish
Once the shells are done baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish the shells with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. You can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cheesy Bacon Chicken Stuffed Shells with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also pairs well with this dish, perfect for mopping up any extra sauce on your plate.
Tips for Perfecting Cheesy Bacon Chicken Stuffed Shells
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh ingredients make all the difference in this dish. Opt for high-quality cheeses, fresh chicken, and freshly cooked bacon for the best flavor. If possible, shred the cheese yourself rather than using pre-shredded cheese, as it melts better and has a creamier texture.
Customize the Filling
This recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to get creative with the filling. Add your favorite vegetables, switch up the cheeses, or even try a different protein like turkey or ham. The possibilities are endless, and you can tailor the dish to suit your family’s preferences.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta
It’s important to cook the pasta shells al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven while absorbing the sauce. Overcooked shells can become mushy and may not hold up well when stuffed and baked. To ensure perfect pasta, follow the package instructions but reduce the cooking time by a minute or two.
Allow the Dish to Rest
After baking, let the Cheesy Bacon Chicken Stuffed Shells rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to serve and ensuring that the flavors meld together beautifully.
Variations of Cheesy Bacon Chicken Stuffed Shells
Spicy Southwest Style
For a kick of heat, add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the filling. You can also mix in some black beans and corn to give the dish a Southwest flair. Top with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for added zest.
Mediterranean Twist
Incorporate Mediterranean flavors by adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and a bit of crumbled feta cheese to the filling. Swap out the bacon for some cooked, crumbled chorizo for a different take on the dish.
Vegetarian Option
For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and bacon and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini to the filling. You can also use a combination of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses for a lighter, veggie-packed stuffing.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Filling Too Dry
If your filling seems too dry, try adding a bit more cream cheese or a splash of milk to the mixture. The filling should be creamy and easy to spread inside the pasta shells.
Sauce Separating
If the cheese sauce separates or curdles, it may be due to overheating or not stirring enough. To fix this, gently whisk the sauce while reheating it. If it’s still not smooth, you can blend it with an immersion blender or transfer it to a regular blender and blend until smooth.
Pasta Shells Sticking Together
To prevent the pasta shells from sticking together after cooking, make sure to rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and coat them lightly with olive oil. If they do stick together, gently separate them with a fork or spoon before stuffing.
Conclusion
Cheesy Bacon Chicken Stuffed Shells are a delightful comfort food that combines tender pasta, creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and savory chicken into a deliciously satisfying dish. The recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize the filling and sauce to suit your tastes, and it’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s not only flavorful but also visually appealing. From cooking the pasta shells to making the creamy sauce and stuffing the shells, each step contributes to the final result—a meal that’s sure to impress.
Whether you’re serving this dish to family or guests, Cheesy Bacon Chicken Stuffed Shells are guaranteed to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a hearty, cheesy meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare Cheesy Bacon Chicken Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time. Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
2. Can I freeze Cheesy Bacon Chicken Stuffed Shells?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the dish, cover it with aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses. Gouda, cheddar, or Gruyère are great alternatives to mozzarella and Parmesan. Just be sure the cheese you choose melts well and complements the other flavors.
4. What should I serve with Cheesy Bacon Chicken Stuffed Shells?
This dish pairs well with a fresh side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. For a complete meal, you might also serve it with a side of roasted or sautéed greens.
5. How can I make the dish spicier?
To add more heat, mix in chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.
Cheesy Bacon Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe
There’s something truly magical about combining the creamy, savory flavors of cheese, bacon, and chicken. When you stuff these ingredients into jumbo pasta shells and bake them to perfection, the result is a comfort food masterpiece that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Cheesy Bacon Chicken Stuffed Shells are the epitome of a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or simply when you’re craving something deliciously rich and comforting.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces (340 g) jumbo pasta shells, cooked al dente according to package instructions
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 block (8 ounces) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup (230 g) sour cream
- 2 tablespoons homemade dry ranch seasoning, or 1 package (1 ounce) store-bought seasoning
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ¼ cup (60 g) hot sauce (optional)
- ½ cup (56.5 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup (56.5 g) mild cheddar cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup green onion, diced, for garnish
- ½ cup diced tomatoes, diced, for garnish
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a large oven-safe skillet with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, ranch seasoning, bacon, and hot sauce until combined.
Stuff each jumbo shell with the chicken mixture and place in the prepared baking dish.
Top the stuffed shells with the shredded mozzarella and mild cheddar cheese. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly.
Top with green onions, tomatoes, and ranch dressing (optional).