Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 20 jumbo pasta shells; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, divided; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

When comfort food meets bold flavor, something magical happens. Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells are exactly that kind of magic. Tender pasta shells are packed with a zesty, creamy chicken mixture that delivers just enough heat to wake up your tastebuds. Everything is nestled in a luscious Cajun cream sauce and baked to bubbly perfection.

This dish is a hit whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or dishing it out at a casual dinner with friends. The contrast of textures from the al dente shells to the rich filling keeps every bite exciting. It’s satisfying, flavorful, and just indulgent enough to feel like a special treat.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells

This recipe strikes a balance between comfort and excitement. It brings the familiar coziness of a baked pasta dish but adds a flavorful twist with Cajun seasoning. The creamy sauce mellows the spice just enough to keep things family-friendly, while still offering a bold taste. It’s also highly customizable, so you can adjust the heat level or sneak in extra veggies if you’d like.

What Kind of Shells Should I Use?

Look for jumbo pasta shells. They’re the perfect shape and size to hold a generous scoop of filling. You want them just tender enough to fill easily, but not overcooked so they don’t fall apart during baking. If you can’t find jumbo shells, you can use manicotti tubes or even layer everything into lasagna noodles for a deconstructed twist.

Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells

The ingredients come together to create a comforting, spicy, creamy masterpiece. Every element plays a role in building layers of flavor and texture that define this dish.

Jumbo pasta shells
Cooked chicken
Cream cheese
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese
Heavy cream
Cajun seasoning
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Salt and pepper
Butter
Milk
Fresh parsley

How To Make the Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Prepare the Shells

Cook your jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking. Set aside on a tray so they don’t stick.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, half the mozzarella, some Parmesan, and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning. Mix until creamy and well combined.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Use a spoon to fill each shell generously with the chicken mixture. Place them open-side-up in a baking dish that’s been lightly greased or layered with a little cream sauce.

Step 4: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream, milk, remaining Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in the rest of the Parmesan and allow the sauce to simmer until thickened and creamy.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour half of the Cajun cream sauce over the shells. Sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells

This dish serves about 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size. Serve it hot out of the oven, garnished with chopped parsley or even a little extra Cajun sprinkle for color and kick. It pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or roasted green beans.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or covered in the oven with a splash of cream to keep things moist.

What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells?

A Simple Green Salad

A light salad with vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the creamy shells.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds a bit of crunch and earthiness that complements the spicy creaminess.

Garlic Bread

Because soaking up that sauce shouldn’t go to waste.

Sauteed Zucchini

A fast and healthy veggie side that won’t overpower the flavors.

Cajun Corn on the Cob

Dial up the Southern vibes with some butter-slathered, seasoned corn.

Lemon Asparagus

A pop of citrus brightness makes a great contrast.

Coleslaw

Crunchy and cool, this is a great textural companion.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

Refreshing and acidic, ideal for cutting through creamy richness.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you’re hooked on bold pasta dishes, here are more to add to your weeknight dinner list:

One-Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta when you want that Cajun kick in one pot simplicity.
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Linguine for a bright and zesty twist.
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli if you love pairing protein with greens.
Cheesy Baked Ziti when you’re craving pure cheesy indulgence.
Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese to take stuffed chicken to the next level.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use rotisserie chicken or leftovers? Did you try a spicy Cajun blend or tone it down for the kids?

I love seeing your twists and questions are always welcome. Let’s help each other make dinner more delicious.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting and flavor-packed dishes on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for cozy meals!

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells are the perfect blend of spice, cream, and comfort. It’s one of those dishes that feels both special and homey, indulgent yet easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for the family or a group of friends, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds.