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Homemade Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells photo

Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Cheesy chicken and spinach-stuffed jumbo pasta shells baked in marinara for a comforting family meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box (12 oz) uncooked jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
  • 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 package (5 oz) shredded Parmesan cheese about 1 2/3 cups
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 Tablespoon dried parsley flakes
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided use 1 cup in filling and reserve 1 cup for topping
  • 1 jar (26 oz) prepared spaghetti sauce use more if you prefer it saucier

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • 9x13 Baking Dish
  • Aluminum Foil
  • cutting board or baking sheet
  • gallon zip-top bag (optional)

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo shells according to package directions until al dente; drain and spread shells individually on a cutting board or baking sheet so they don't stick.
  2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease two 9x13-inch baking dishes (or one if preferred).
  3. In a large bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, chopped spinach, chopped onion, minced garlic, ricotta, softened cream cheese, shredded Parmesan, beaten egg, dried parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; mix until evenly combined.
  4. Stir 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella into the filling mixture.
  5. Spoon or pipe the filling into each shell using a spoon or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped; fill all shells evenly.
  6. Spread half of the spaghetti sauce across the bottom of the prepared baking dishes, arrange the filled shells over the sauce, then spoon the remaining sauce over the shells; cover tightly with foil.
  7. Bake covered for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup mozzarella, then bake uncovered 5 to 10 more minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Let the dishes rest a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Do not overcook shells or they may tear when filling.
  • For easier filling, pipe the mixture using a snipped zip-top bag.
  • Use more sauce if you prefer a saucier casserole.
  • You can prepare and freeze one covered pan before baking.