- Cook the Shells:
- Boil jumbo pasta shells in a large pot of salted water according to the package directions Drain them gently and set on a tray to cool This prevents sticking and tearing
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and cook slowly until very soft about five minutes Stir in the minced garlic and let it become fragrant for one more minute
- Prepare Chicken Filling:
- Stir in the shredded chicken to the vegetables Mix in Cajun seasoning paprika salt and pepper Let it heat through and soak up the spices Remove from heat and allow to cool just enough before mixing with cheese
- Mix with Cheese:
- In a large bowl blend the chicken mixture with ricotta mozzarella and Parmesan Stir everything together so the cheeses are evenly distributed and creamy
- Make the Sauce:
- In a saucepan melt butter on medium and sprinkle in the flour Whisk constantly for one minute for a roux Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream Whisk vigorously to avoid lumps Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning garlic powder salt and pepper Simmer and stir until you have a thick glossy sauce which should take five to seven minutes
- Assemble the Dish:
- Spread half the sauce into a large baking dish Stuff each shell generously with the chicken cheese mixture Place snugly in the dish Spoon remaining sauce over the top Finish with a handful of mozzarella for golden bubbly topping
- Bake to Perfection:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at three seventy five for twenty minutes Remove foil and bake another ten minutes until everything is bubbling and lightly golden
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow shells to cool for a few minutes Serve hot with fresh parsley sprinkled on top and enjoy the creamy spicy goodness
I am always amazed by how ricotta cheese makes these shells so creamy My sister always claims extra shells for lunch the next day since they stay just as tasty warmed up
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days If you want to freeze let the shells cool completely and then store in a covered pan or freezer safe dish They reheat beautifully either in the oven or microwave For the creamiest results add a splash of milk before reheating so the sauce stays silky
Ingredient substitutions
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