Chicken Philly Stuffed Pasta Shells

If you love the rich, comforting flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak but crave a playful twist, Chicken Philly Stuffed Pasta Shells are here to satisfy your cravings. Imagine tender, shredded chicken mingling with creamy cheeses and sautéed bell peppers and onions, all tucked inside perfectly cooked pasta shells and baked with a luscious marinara sauce. This dish brings together the best of Italian-inspired comfort food and the familiar, beloved taste of a Philly sandwich, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Philly Stuffed Pasta Shells are a fantastic way to elevate your pasta night with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen:

• Easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe fits perfectly into busy weeknights.
• Loaded with flavor: The combination of gooey cheeses, tender chicken, and sautéed veggies delivers layers of deliciousness.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out veggies or cheeses depending on what you have on hand.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy, hearty dish.
• Meal prep friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when ready, or enjoy leftovers for an easy lunch.

What’s in the Bowl

Before diving in, let’s see what you’ll need to whip up these Chicken Philly Stuffed Pasta Shells:

• 12 large pasta shells – the perfect size for stuffing and holding all the filling.
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – use rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken breast for convenience.
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened – adds a creamy, rich texture to the filling.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – melty and mild, a classic cheese for pasta dishes.
• 1/2 cup provolone cheese, shredded – brings a subtle smokiness and depth.
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced – adds a pop of color and a sweet crunch.
• 1/2 cup onion, diced – brings mild sweetness and aroma when sautéed.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – for that irresistible savory punch.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a fragrant blend of herbs to tie it all together.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – enhances all the other flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – adds a gentle heat.
• 1 cup marinara sauce – use your favorite brand or homemade for a vibrant tomato base.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing the veggies to golden perfection.

Equipment at a Glance

Having the right tools makes cooking this dish a breeze. Here’s what you’ll want to have handy:

• Large pot – to boil the pasta shells until al dente.
• Large skillet – for sautéing the bell peppers, onions, and garlic.
• Mixing bowl – to combine the chicken, cheeses, and sautéed veggies.
• Baking dish – an 8×8 inch or similar size works great for baking the stuffed shells.
• Cooking utensils – a spatula and wooden spoon for stirring and mixing.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise seasoning and portions.

The Method for Chicken Philly Stuffed Pasta Shells

Ready to make magic happen? Follow these steps for perfectly stuffed pasta shells that will wow your taste buds.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 large pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 9-11 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened and slightly golden. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, shredded provolone, sautéed veggies, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spoon the chicken and cheese filling into each pasta shell, making sure they’re generously stuffed but not overfilled. Arrange the filled shells in a single layer in your baking dish.

Step 5: Add Marinara and Bake

Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to bubble and the sauce to thicken.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out the stuffed shells with a spatula and enjoy with a fresh salad or garlic bread.

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

Want to tweak your Chicken Philly Stuffed Pasta Shells? Here are some delicious variations to try:

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a subtle heat.
• Mushroom magic: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the peppers and onions for earthiness.
• Cheese swaps: Try pepper jack or gouda for a different cheesy profile.
• Herb boost: Add fresh basil or parsley for a bright, fresh note.
• Smoked chicken: Use smoked rotisserie chicken for a deeper, smoky flavor.

Flavor Logic

The beauty of these stuffed shells lies in the harmonious balance of flavors and textures:

• Cheeses: Cream cheese adds creaminess, mozzarella gives stretch and melt, and provolone contributes a mild smoky undertone.
• Veggies: Bell peppers and onions offer sweetness and a bit of crunch, complementing the tender chicken.
• Seasoning: The Italian seasoning and garlic infuse the filling with classic herbaceous notes that marry perfectly with marinara sauce.
• Marinara sauce: Provides a tangy, slightly acidic contrast that cuts through the richness of the cheeses and chicken.

Storing Tips & Timelines

These Chicken Philly Stuffed Pasta Shells are as convenient as they are delicious. Here’s how to store and reheat them for later enjoyment:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through.
• Freeze: Place leftover stuffed shells in a freezer-safe dish or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Meal prep: Assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and keep covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Handy Q&A

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

While large pasta shells are ideal for stuffing, you can use jumbo manicotti tubes or even cannelloni as substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add extra veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the filling for a satisfying vegetarian version.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and store them covered in the fridge. Bake just before serving for the best texture and freshness.

What sides pair well with Chicken Philly Stuffed Pasta Shells?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables are excellent companions. For something creamy and comforting, try a side of One Pot Creamy Tomato Tortellini or if you’re in the mood for chicken in another style, Crock Pot Honey Sriracha Chicken offers a sweet and spicy contrast.

More from the Kitchen

• One Pot Creamy Tomato Tortellini – a quick and indulgent pasta dish.
• Crock Pot Honey Sriracha Chicken – a sweet and spicy slow cooker favorite.
• Simple Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta – an easy seafood pasta packed with flavor.
• Quick Chicken Parmesan Pasta – all the classic flavors in a speedy meal.

Bring It to the Table

Chicken Philly Stuffed Pasta Shells are best served fresh from the oven, with melted cheese bubbling on top and marinara sauce warm and inviting. For a family dinner, pair with a crisp Caesar salad and some crusty bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. If you want to keep things lighter, a simple green side salad dressed with lemon and olive oil will balance the richness beautifully.

This dish also shines at potlucks and gatherings — it’s easy to transport and can be baked right before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven appeal. Plus, leftovers reheat wonderfully, making it a great option for meal prep or packed lunches.

Whether you’re craving the nostalgic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak or just want a hearty, cheesy pasta bake, Chicken Philly Stuffed Pasta Shells deliver on all fronts. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that combines Italian charm with American classic flavors in every bite.

Share on Pinterest