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Delve into the comforting world of Italian cuisine with our delightful recipe for Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells. This dish combines the rich flavors of creamy cheeses, tender chicken, and nutritious spinach, all enveloped in hearty jumbo pasta shells. The result is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that evokes warmth and satisfaction, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe not only satisfies the palate but also offers a nutritious edge, making it a favorite among health-conscious home cooks. In this article, we will explore the origins of stuffed pasta dishes, the nutritional benefits of the ingredients, and provide a step-by-step guide to creating this mouth-watering meal.

Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Dive into the comforting flavors of Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells, a delightful Italian dish that is perfect for family dinners and gatherings. This recipe features jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy mixture of tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a blend of rich cheeses. Easy to customize for different dietary needs, this meal not only pleases the palate but also offers nutritional benefits. Discover the joy of creating this comforting classic in your own kitchen!
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Ingredients
  

20 jumbo pasta shells

1 cup cooked chicken, shredded

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated (plus extra for topping)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups marinara sauce

Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

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

    Cook the Pasta Shells: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

      Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.

        Stuff the Shells: Take each cooked shell and fill it generously with the chicken and spinach mixture. Place the stuffed shells open-side up in a greased baking dish.

          Add Marinara Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, making sure each shell is covered. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top for extra cheesiness.

            Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

              Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, then serve warm.

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4-6