Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells are a comforting baked pasta dish that delivers rich flavor without complicated steps. This recipe brings together tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a smooth cheese filling tucked into jumbo shells and baked until perfectly melty. It fits weeknight dinners, special gatherings, and meal prep plans with equal ease. The combination of familiar ingredients and oven-baked warmth makes this dish reliable, satisfying, and practical for home cooks who value both taste and structure. From prep to presentation, this meal offers consistency and depth without unnecessary effort.
Print
Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells with Creamy Baked Flavor
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
Creamy baked stuffed shells filled with chicken, spinach, and a rich cheese blend.
Ingredients
1 (12-ounce) package jumbo pasta shells
2 cups cooked chicken, finely chopped
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 2/3 cups grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
2 to 2 1/2 cups prepared pasta sauce
Instructions
1. Cook pasta shells until just tender and set aside.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease baking dishes.
3. Mix chicken, spinach, onion, garlic, cheeses, egg, and seasonings.
4. Fill shells generously with mixture.
5. Layer sauce, shells, and remaining sauce in dishes.
6. Bake covered 40 minutes, uncover, add cheese, bake until melted.
Notes
Let rest briefly before serving. Can be assembled ahead and baked later.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Why Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells Belong on Your Table
Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells work well for family dinners because they are filling and easy to portion. Each shell delivers a balanced bite of protein, greens, and cheese, making it simple to serve everyone evenly.
This dish also suits make-ahead cooking. You can assemble the shells in advance, refrigerate them, and bake when needed. That flexibility makes it useful for busy schedules and planned gatherings.
The ingredient balance is another strength. Chicken provides substance, spinach adds freshness, and the cheese mixture creates a creamy texture that holds everything together without feeling heavy.
Ingredients That Make Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells Exceptional
Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells rely on a blend of ricotta, cream cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella to create a smooth, structured filling. Each cheese adds a distinct role, from creaminess to savory depth.
Fresh spinach is essential here. It blends easily into the filling and adds color and lightness that offsets the richness of the cheese.
Jumbo pasta shells are designed to hold generous fillings. When cooked just until tender, they stay intact and bake evenly, giving the finished dish a clean, appealing shape.
Step-by-Step Guide to Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Start by cooking the pasta shells in salted water until just tender. Laying them out separately after draining prevents sticking and tearing during filling.
Prepare the filling by mixing the chicken, spinach, onion, garlic, cheeses, egg, and seasonings until smooth. This ensures even flavor in every shell before assembly.
Once filled, arrange the shells over a base of sauce, top with more sauce, and bake covered to lock in moisture. A final uncovered bake melts the remaining cheese and finishes the dish properly.
Flavor Variations for Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Chicken and spinach stuffed shells with white sauce offer a richer profile. A simple cream-based sauce can replace traditional pasta sauce for a softer, more indulgent result.
Shredded chicken and spinach stuffed shells work especially well if you are using rotisserie chicken. The finer texture blends smoothly with the cheeses and spinach.
You can also adjust herbs and seasonings. Fresh basil, thyme, or a touch of nutmeg can subtly change the flavor without altering the structure of the recipe.
Serving and Storage Tips for Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Serve this dish with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for contrast. Garlic bread also pairs well and complements the baked pasta texture.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat covered to maintain moisture and avoid drying out the shells.
This dish freezes effectively. Assemble fully, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight and bake as directed for a dependable make-ahead meal. For similar comforting bakes, explore this green chili chicken enchilada casserole or this hearty chicken and biscuits skillet dinner.
FAQs About Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Chicken and spinach stuffed shells with white sauce
Yes, replacing tomato-based sauce with a cream sauce creates a milder, richer flavor that pairs well with spinach and cheese.
Shredded chicken and spinach stuffed shells
Shredded chicken works well and blends easily with the filling, making the texture softer and more uniform.
Can these shells be made ahead?
They can be assembled a day in advance, refrigerated, and baked just before serving without affecting quality.
Conclusion
Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells deliver dependable flavor, practical preparation, and comforting structure in one baked dish. With adaptable ingredients and clear steps, this recipe fits everyday cooking while still feeling complete and satisfying.
For more successful recipes, you can visit our Pinterest account