Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Shell

Ingredients

3 cups shredded chicken

1 -16 ounce ricotta cheese, whipped

¼ cup butter, unsalted

1 cup your choice Buffalo Flavor Sauce, such as Frank’s Red Hot

16 ounces large shell pasta

Salt and pepper to taste, (optional)

2 cups Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions:

Reheat the shredded chicken in a skillet for just a few minutes

Melt in the butter with the shredded chicken and add in the cayenne pepper

Using a cheesecloth, squeeze as much of the liquid as possible from the ricotta cheese.

In a bowl, place the cheese in and add the shredded chicken

Refrigerate this mix for at least 3 hours.

Cook the large shell pasta in lightly salted water, do not cook until al dente’, you want the pasta still slightly firm

Drain the pasta

Preheat the oven to 350*

Lightly spray a 9×13 pan with nonstick spray

Using a cookie scoop, fill each shell with some of the filling

Place the shells into the prepared baking pan

Sprinkle with Monterey Jack cheese on top of each shell

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, do not over-bake, you do not want crispy shells

Enjoy.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 16 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

While the recipe calls for large shell pasta, you can experiment with different pasta shapes like jumbo pasta shells, penne, or rigatoni.

Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary, so adjust accordingly.

Is there a way to make this recipe less spicy?

If you’re looking to reduce the spiciness, consider using a milder buffalo sauce or mixing the buffalo sauce with a creamy dressing to temper the heat.

You can also adjust the amount of cayenne pepper added to the butter and shredded chicken mixture.

Can I substitute the shredded chicken with another protein?

Certainly! While shredded chicken is the main protein in this recipe, you can substitute it with shredded turkey, ground chicken, or even a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a different flavor profile.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely. Preparing the filling ahead of time and refrigerating it is a great way to save time when you’re ready to assemble and bake the shells.

Just make sure to store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the topping?

Yes, you can customize the cheese topping based on your preferences.

If you’re not a fan of Monterey Jack cheese, you can use cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses that melt well.

This allows you to add your own twist to the flavor.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in this recipe?

Absolutely, you have control over the spiciness.

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use less buffalo sauce or choose a mild buffalo sauce variety.

On the other hand, if you’re a fan of heat, you can increase the amount of buffalo sauce or even add a dash of extra cayenne pepper.

Can I use pre-cooked shredded chicken for this recipe?

Yes, using pre-cooked shredded chicken, such as leftovers from a roast chicken or rotisserie chicken, is a great time-saving option.

Just ensure the chicken is well-heated and mixed with the butter and cayenne pepper as specified in the recipe.

How important is the refrigeration step for the filling?

Refrigerating the filling mix for at least 3 hours allows the flavors to meld together and creates a better texture for stuffing the shells.

It also helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to handle and stuff the pasta shells.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?

While ricotta cheese is traditionally used, you can experiment with other creamy cheeses like cream cheese or cottage cheese for a different flavor and texture.

Just be aware that the taste and consistency might vary slightly from the original recipe.

What can I serve with these stuffed shells?

These Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Shells are quite flavorful on their own, but you can enhance the meal by serving them with a side salad, coleslaw, or even some garlic bread.

A cool and refreshing dipping sauce, such as a ranch or blue cheese dressing, can also complement the spiciness of the shells.