Why Make This Recipe
Garlic Chicken Stuffed Shells are a delicious and comforting meal. They bring together tender pasta shells, flavorful chicken, and creamy cheese for a satisfying dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some spinach for added nutrition!
How to Make Garlic Chicken Stuffed Shells
Ingredients:
- Jumbo pasta shells
- Cooked chicken, shredded
- Ricotta cheese
- Fresh spinach, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Marinara sauce
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the chicken and cheese mixture.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish and cover them with more marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Garlic Chicken Stuffed Shells
Serve Garlic Chicken Stuffed Shells hot from the oven. They are great as a main dish. Pair them with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving for added flavor.
How to Store Garlic Chicken Stuffed Shells
If you have leftovers, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for 3-4 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Tips to Make Garlic Chicken Stuffed Shells
- You can prepare the filling in advance and stuff the shells later for a quicker dinner.
- For extra flavor, add some Italian seasoning to the chicken filling.
- Feel free to use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker prep time.
Variation
You can easily switch up the veggies. Try adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms. For a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use other cheeses like cottage cheese or a mix of your favorites to customize the flavor.
2. Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Absolutely! You can freeze them before baking. Just cover the dish well and bake them straight from the freezer, adding a little extra time.
3. Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with more spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetables to make it vegetarian.
Garlic Chicken Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 12 pieces Jumbo pasta shells Cook according to package instructions
- 2 cups Cooked chicken, shredded Rotisserie chicken can be used for quicker prep
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese
- 2 cups Fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
For Assembly and Topping
- 2 cups Marinara sauce Divide for layering and topping
- 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
Assembly
- Stuff each cooked shell with the chicken and cheese mixture.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish and cover them with more marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Baking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
