🌶️🧀 Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells – A Bold, Comforting Flavor Explosion! 🍽️🔥
These Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells take comfort food to the next level with a creamy, cheesy filling and just the right amount of heat. Tender jumbo shells are stuffed with shredded chicken, Cajun spices, and a rich cream cheese blend, then smothered in a creamy sauce and baked until bubbling and golden. It’s the kind of dish that brings the “oohs” and “ahhs” to the table — and maybe even a few happy tears.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests who love a little spice with their comfort food.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Filling:
20 jumbo pasta shells, cooked al dente
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!)
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional, for added flavor)
For the Creamy Cajun Sauce:
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk or heavy cream
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
🔪 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Shells
Boil jumbo shells in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop cooking. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and green onions (if using). Mix until creamy and well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk or cream, stirring constantly until thickened (about 3–5 minutes).
Stir in cheese and Cajun seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat when smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Stuff & Assemble
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of the sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Stuff each shell with the chicken mixture and arrange in the dish.
Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the top.
Sprinkle extra mozzarella or Parmesan on top, if desired.
Step 5: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 10 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly browned.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
🌿 Garnish Ideas
Fresh chopped parsley or basil
Extra green onions
A sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for color
🍽️ What to Serve With It
Garlic bread or crusty French loaf
Steamed green beans or broccoli
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze before baking. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.
Reheat: Warm in oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions.
🔄 Variations
Add veggies: Mix in sautéed spinach or bell peppers.
Heat it up: Use extra Cajun seasoning or stir in hot sauce.
Swap protein: Use shrimp, sausage, or ground turkey instead of chicken.