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Cheesy Spinach and Chicken Stuffed Shells are a delightful comfort food that elevates any dining experience with their rich flavors and satisfying textures. This dish features large pasta shells filled with a creamy mixture of cheese, tender chicken, and nutritious spinach, all baked to perfection. Not only do these stuffed shells appeal to the taste buds, but they also serve as a visual feast that can impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy family dinner, a festive celebration, or meal prepping for a busy week, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Cheesy Spinach and Chicken Stuffed Shells

Experience the delightful comfort of Cheesy Spinach and Chicken Stuffed Shells, a dish that combines rich flavors and satisfying textures. These jumbo pasta shells are filled with a creamy blend of cheese, tender chicken, and nutritious spinach, making them a visual and culinary feast. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this recipe is not just delicious but also nutritious, packed with wholesome ingredients. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this easy, flavorful dish that’s sure to be a crowd favorite!

Ingredients
  

20 large jumbo pasta shells

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably rotisserie)

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or 1/2 cup frozen spinach thawed and drained)

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg, lightly beaten

2 teaspoons garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

      Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

        Stuff the Shells: Take each cooked shell and carefully fill it with approximately 2 tablespoons of the chicken and spinach mixture. Place the stuffed shells seam-side up in a 9x13 inch baking dish.

          Add the Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring that each shell is covered. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top of the sauce.

            Bake the Dish: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, spray the foil lightly with cooking spray) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

              Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious cheesy spinach and chicken stuffed shells!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 45 minutes | 4-6 servings