Next, take those beautiful pasta shells and stuff each one with the creamy chicken mixture. This part can get a little messy, but that’s where the fun is! I often like to use my hands for this—just feel the textures and enjoy the process. Once the shells are stuffed, pour a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of your greased baking dish, then carefully arrange the filled shells on top. Drizzle the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, and then sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and cheddar over them. It’s ok to be generous; cheese should be the star of the show!
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. This step allows all those flavors to meld beautifully together. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese bubbly and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell out of this world at this point, I promise! Take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with some freshly chopped parsley if you feel fancy, then serve and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Best Results
First, I tested this recipe using both grilled and rotisserie chicken, and while both were delicious, I found that rotisserie chicken added an extra layer of flavor that made the dish even more indulgent. Plus, it saves time in the kitchen without sacrificing taste!
Secondly, don’t skip the cooling time after baking. I know it’s tempting to dig right in, but letting it sit for those few minutes helps the cheesy filling set and makes serving much easier. You’ll thank me when you don’t end up with a cheesy mess on your plate!
Lastly, feel free to play around with the cheeses. I once substituted some of the cheddar for pepper jack, which added a delightful kick! And let me tell you, the tangy, spicy element paired beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I’ve made in the past is overcooking the pasta shells. You want them slightly undercooked since they’ll continue to cook in the oven. Trust me, no one wants mushy pasta! Just follow the package instructions, and you’ll be good to go. (See the next page below to continue…)