Go Back

Chicken Stuffed Shells with Spinach

This comforting dish features jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy chicken and spinach mixture, topped with rich marinara sauce and cheese.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken Juicy and flavorful, forms the heart of the filling.
  • 3 cups baby spinach Fresh and tender, adds nutrition and color.
  • ½ cup whole-milk Ricotta cheese Enhances texture and richness.
  • 4 ounces mozzarella cheese (cubed) Provides bursts of cheesy goodness.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided) Adds depth to the filling.
  • 1 large egg Binds the filling together.
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced) Adds savory fragrance.
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt Balances flavors.
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper Adds a subtle kick.
For the Sauce
  • 2 cups marinara sauce Rich and tangy, coats the shells.
  • ½ cup heavy cream Creates a luxurious texture.
For Assembly
  • 10 ounces jumbo shells Large shells for filling.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese For topping the dish.
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil Enhances flavors.
  • Fresh basil optional Fresh basil (for garnish) Elevates presentation and flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the jumbo shells one at a time. Boil until slightly less than al dente. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place on a cutting board to cool.
  3. In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the baby spinach, sautéing until wilted (about 2 minutes). Transfer to a large bowl.
  4. In the large bowl, add shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, cubed mozzarella, ¼ cup of Parmesan, egg, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
Cooking
  1. In the same skillet, combine the marinara sauce and heavy cream, bringing it to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer and stir in the remaining Parmesan, allowing it to melt.
  2. Pour the prepared sauce into a 9x12-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Stuff each cooled jumbo shell with the filling and place in the dish. Top with shredded mozzarella.
  3. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
Serving
  1. Let cool slightly, garnish with fresh basil if desired, then serve warm.

Notes

You can prepare the filling and stuff the shells a day in advance. Store in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Substitute different cheeses or customize the filling to include sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes.