Name: Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 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 cheese (Monterey Jack and Colby Jack blend); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh basil, chopped (to taste); 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 53 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that truly wows with every bite, the Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe is made for you. This creamy, cheesy comfort food combines tender chunks of seasoned chicken, jumbo pasta shells, and a rich, luscious Marry Me Cream Sauce that’s been kissed with sun-dried tomatoes and a hint of lemon zest. It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures that feels like a warm hug at the dinner table. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or an indulgent weeknight meal, this recipe is guaranteed to become one of your favorites to share and savor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows large pasta shells filled with a creamy, white cheese mixture that has small brown and red bits evenly spread throughout, likely sun-dried tomatoes and herbs. The shells are placed closely together in a white oval dish, which has a light tan sauce underneath. The texture of the cheese filling looks soft and smooth with small chunks, while the pasta shells have ridged surfaces that hold the filling well. A woman's hand wearing a transparent glove holds one stuffed shell close to the camera, showing the filling's thickness and color contrast with the pale yellow pasta. The dish and shells are set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe plays a vital role, creating layers of flavor and texture that are simply irresistible. From the perfectly seasoned chicken to the creamy ricotta filling and aromatic basil, these essentials come together to transform simple ingredients into a show-stopping dish.

2 lbs. chicken breast or tenderloins diced into small chunks: Adds hearty protein and soaks up the spices beautifully for juicy bites.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Brings a lovely herbaceous blend to both the chicken and the sauce, tying everything together.
2 teaspoons paprika: Delivers a subtle smoky note and a rich color to the chicken.
18-20 jumbo pasta shells: These act as the perfect edible vessels for holding the creamy filling.
2 cups shredded Monterey jack and Colby jack cheese: A melty, mild cheese combo that lends gooey goodness.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for sautéing chicken to a perfect golden crust.
Fresh basil: Adds a bright, fresh pop of flavor that balances the richness.
Salt and pepper: The basics, but crucial for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
3 tablespoons butter: Creates a silky base for the decadent cream sauce.
4 garlic cloves minced: Provides an aromatic punch that wakes up the entire dish.
4 oz diced sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained: Infuses a tangy sweetness and chewy texture that truly elevate the sauce and filling.
1.5 cups half and half: Balances creaminess with a lighter texture in the sauce.
1/3 cup heavy cream: Amplifies the richness and silky mouthfeel of the sauce.
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds just a hint of heat without overpowering.
1 cup parmesan freshly shredded: Gives depth, umami, and a slightly nutty finish to both sauce and filling.
1 lemon zest and juice: Provides a refreshing citrus brightness that keeps the dish lively.
1.5 cups ricotta cheese: The creamy and mild base of the filling, pairing perfectly with the other cheeses.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced chicken, seasoning it generously with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté until the chicken pieces are cooked through and lightly golden, about 6-8 minutes. This step is crucial as it infuses the chicken with bold flavors that will complement the creamy filling beautifully later on.

Step 2: Cook the Jumbo Pasta Shells

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly, making them easier to fill without tearing. Perfectly cooked shells make all the difference—firm enough to hold the filling but tender enough to melt in your mouth.

Step 3: Make the Marry Me Cream Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute. Stir in the diced sun-dried tomatoes, then pour in the half and half and heavy cream. Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly, then stir in fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and freshly shredded parmesan until melted and smooth. This sauce is the heart of the Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe—rich, tangy, and oh so comforting.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, the second portion of diced sun-dried tomatoes (drained), parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated. This creamy and flavorful filling will perfectly complement the chicken and sauce once stuffed inside the shells.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells and Assemble

Gently spoon the ricotta filling into each jumbo pasta shell, then arrange them in a baking dish. Nestle the cooked chicken pieces around and on top of the shells for bursts of savory flavor in every bite. Pour the luscious Marry Me Cream Sauce evenly over the entire dish, ensuring all the shells are nicely coated. Sprinkle shredded Monterey jack and Colby jack cheese on top for a golden, melty finish after baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe

The image shows two clear glass bowls on a white marbled surface; the left bowl has a creamy light beige sauce mixed with small red and brown flecks, stirred by a wooden spoon with its tip coated in sauce and a woman's hand holding it. The right bowl contains several layers and sections of different ingredients: a large white creamy base layer, topped unevenly with bright yellow lemon zest in one area, minced light beige garlic next to it, finely ground mixed black and white pepper spread over a larger area, small dark red pieces of sun-dried tomatoes on one side, and some white granules underneath the garlic and lemon zest. The textures vary from smooth creamy to rough and grainy. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil leaves adds a vibrant green touch and fresh aroma that brightens up this rich dish. Consider adding a light dusting of extra parmesan on top for that cheesy crescendo right before serving.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple, crisp green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the creaminess of the shells. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also make fantastic, nutrient-packed companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the stuffed shells in an elegant white baking dish to highlight their vibrant colors. You could also make individual servings in small ramekins or mini casserole dishes for a charming, personalized touch at dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners during the week.

Freezing

If you want to prepare the Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe ahead of time, assemble everything up to the baking step and freeze the unbaked dish tightly covered. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, so you always have a show-stopping meal ready whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen shells overnight in the fridge, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes. Leftovers from the fridge can be reheated in the microwave or oven—just be sure to cover with foil when using the oven to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use leftover cooked chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using leftover cooked chicken can save time. Just dice it up and season lightly before mixing with the filling and sauce. It won’t have quite the same seared flavor as freshly cooked chicken but will still be delicious.

Is there a vegetarian version of the Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or artichoke hearts to the filling for an equally tasty vegetarian option.

Can I substitute the half and half with milk?

You can, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For best results, stick with half and half and heavy cream to achieve that luscious texture that makes this recipe so special.

What type of sun-dried tomatoes should I use?

Go for diced sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained before use. They have a wonderful tang and chew that dried-only ones can’t match. If you only have dry-packed, rehydrate them in warm water beforehand.

How spicy is this recipe?

The recipe has just a gentle warmth from the red pepper flakes, making it approachable for most palates. You can always adjust the amount up or down to suit your spice preference.

Final Thoughts

If you want a dish that feels like a special occasion every time you make it, the Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells Recipe is your new go-to. With its irresistible cream sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy, sun-dried tomato filling, it’s the kind of meal you’ll want to share with loved ones over and over again. Give it a try and watch this recipe quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen!