Name: Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 lbs. chicken breast or tenderloins, diced into small chunks; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 2 teaspoons paprika; 18-20 jumbo pasta shells; 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack and Colby Jack cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh basil, for garnish; Salt and pepper, to taste; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 4 oz diced sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained; 1.5 cups half and half; 1/3 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup freshly shredded parmesan cheese; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 1.5 cups ricotta cheese; 4 oz diced sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained; 1/3 cup freshly shredded parmesan cheese; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon pepper; ½ teaspoon salt

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 41 reviews

If you are craving a dinner that is bursting with comforting flavors and a touch of elegance, the Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe will absolutely steal your heart. Imagine tender chicken chunks, creamy ricotta, and sun-dried tomatoes all wrapped inside tender jumbo pasta shells, then baked in a luscious, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce that’s simply irresistible. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows small pieces of cooked chicken piled in a light gray pan. Each piece is irregular in shape with a golden brown color and some darker spots from roasting. The chicken has a slightly moist texture with visible herbs and small black pepper specks scattered throughout. The pan has a metallic surface with slight browning marks near the chicken. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with the Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe is easy when you have the right ingredients on hand. Each component plays a crucial role, from the juicy, seasoned chicken to the creamy filling and the rich sauce that ties everything together beautifully.

2 lbs. chicken breast or tenderloins, diced into small chunks: The star protein that makes the filling hearty and satisfying.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Adds classic Mediterranean herbs for depth and aroma.
2 teaspoons paprika: Brings a subtle smoky warmth to the chicken.
18-20 jumbo pasta shells: Perfect vessels to hold the creamy, flavorful filling.
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack and Colby Jack cheese: Melt to gooey perfection on top for a golden crust.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking the chicken and keeping the pasta shells from sticking.
Fresh basil: Brightens the dish with its fresh, herbal notes and color.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every flavor layer.
3 tablespoons butter: Creates a rich base for the sauce.
4 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the sauce with savory goodness.
4 oz diced sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained: Intensifies the dish with a concentrated tomato taste.
1.5 cups half and half: Makes the sauce creamy without being too heavy.
1/3 cup heavy cream: Adds luxurious richness to the sauce texture.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Harmonizes the sauce with aromatic herbs.
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Provides a gentle kick of heat.
1 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese: Boosts savory umami and melts smoothly into the sauce.
1 lemon zest and juice: Offers a fresh, tangy brightness to lift the flavors.
1.5 cups ricotta cheese: The creamy base of the filling that blends beautifully with chicken and sun-dried tomatoes.
2 garlic cloves, minced (for filling): Adds a subtle garlicky punch mixed into the stuffing.
½ teaspoon pepper, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (for filling): Season perfectly to taste.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Drizzle the diced chicken with olive oil and generously season it with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. This initial seasoning is key to infusing the chicken with bold flavors right from the start. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then cook the chicken in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side until it’s cooked through and beautifully browned. Once done, set the chicken aside under a tent of foil to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Marry Me Cream Sauce

Using the same skillet saves time and locks in flavor. Melt butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the diced, drained sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for another 30 seconds to release their intense flavor. Pour in the half and half and heavy cream, season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper, then bring it to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce thicken for 3-4 minutes before stirring in the freshly shredded Parmesan until it melts smoothly. Finish with lemon zest and juice for a bright, zesty lift, then remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, diced sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, minced garlic, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients together creates a creamy, flavorful filling that hugs every pasta shell. Fold in the cooked chicken until everything is evenly incorporated, making each bite a perfect harmony of textures and tastes.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo shells for about 10 minutes or until al dente, following package instructions. Drain the shells carefully and toss them with a little olive oil to keep them from sticking, which makes stuffing easier and keeps the presentation neat and tidy.

Step 5: Assemble & Bake

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread half of the Marry Me cream sauce to cover the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish. Carefully stuff each shell with the creamy chicken filling and arrange them snugly side by side in the dish. Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the shells and top with the shredded Monterey Jack and Colby Jack cheese for a golden, melty cheese crust. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until the sauce bubbles and the edges are lightly browned. Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld perfectly.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe

Four large pasta shells on a white plate are filled with creamy cheese mixed with small pieces of red sun-dried tomatoes. The shells have a golden-baked top layer with spots of melted cheese and herbs. Chopped fresh green basil is scattered over the shells, with a small bunch of whole basil leaves in the center. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves scattered on top add a vibrant pop of green and a fragrant, herbal note that complements the rich sun-dried tomato sauce beautifully. A light sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan just before serving can also elevate the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This decadent Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts also make excellent sides, offering a crisp contrast to the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or a warm baguette can be perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the stuffed shells individually on a plate with a drizzle of extra sauce and a sprig of basil. Or create a type of family-style spread by placing the baked dish in the center of the table so everyone can dig in together. You can even sprinkle toasted pine nuts or a few red pepper flakes on top for added texture and a touch of heat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to cool the dish completely before sealing to help maintain the creamy sauce’s texture and keep the flavors fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the shells in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then proceed with baking instructions. For freezing leftovers, pack the cooled shells in airtight containers or freezer bags and use within 2 months for best flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit covered with foil until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Microwaving on medium power in shorter intervals also works well, stirring the sauce occasionally to keep it creamy and prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut to save time—just shred it and mix it into the filling. It adds extra flavor and reduces cooking time without sacrificing any of the deliciousness of the Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe.

Can I substitute the half and half and heavy cream?

You can use whole milk combined with a bit of cream or even a well-mixed evaporated milk alternative for a lighter sauce, but the original richness of the Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe comes from the half and half and heavy cream, so expect a slightly different texture and taste.

What pasta shells work best?

Jumbo pasta shells are ideal because their size makes stuffing easier and provides the perfect amount of filling in every bite. Avoid smaller shells as they won’t hold enough filling and may be difficult to stuff.

Can I prepare this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or artichokes to the filling for a delicious vegetarian version that still shines with all the creamy, tangy sun-dried tomato sauce flavors.

How do I prevent the pasta shells from sticking?

After cooking, drain the shells carefully and toss them with a little olive oil while they are still warm. This light coating keeps them from clumping together and makes stuffing much easier during assembly.

Final Thoughts

The Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s packed with layers of rich creaminess, perfectly cooked chicken, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, all baked into cheesy, tender pasta shells. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating your family on a busy weeknight, this recipe deserves a special place in your dinner rotation. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s called “Marry Me.” Happy cooking and even happier eating!