Why Make This Recipe
Garlic Chicken Stuffed Shells are a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender pasta with flavorful fillings. They are easy to make and perfect for family dinners. This recipe brings together the savory taste of garlic, creamy cheese, and hearty chicken, making it a favorite among both kids and adults. Plus, it can be prepared in advance and baked when ready to serve, saving time on busy nights.
How to Make Garlic Chicken Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
- Jumbo pasta shells
- Ricotta cheese
- Cooked chicken, shredded
- Spinach, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Marinara sauce
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded chicken, chopped spinach, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each shell with the chicken and ricotta mixture.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken Stuffed Shells
Garlic Chicken Stuffed Shells are best served hot. You can pair them with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top adds a nice touch.
How to Store Garlic Chicken Stuffed Shells
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Just cover them tightly and label them. When ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Tips to Make Garlic Chicken Stuffed Shells
- Use freshly cooked chicken for the best flavor.
- Feel free to add more vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, to the filling.
- For a bit more spice, add red pepper flakes to the garlic mixture.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta shells; they should be al dente before stuffing.
Variation
You can switch up the filling by using ground turkey or beef instead of chicken. For a vegetarian option, skip the meat and add extra spinach or other vegetables.
FAQs
Can I prepare Garlic Chicken Stuffed Shells in advance?
Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator before baking.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use cheeses like feta, cottage cheese, or even a dairy-free alternative if preferred.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Garlic Chicken Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 12 pieces jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Freshly cooked chicken is recommended.
- 2 cups spinach, chopped Feel free to add more vegetables.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced For added spice, consider red pepper flakes.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Marinara
- 2 cups marinara sauce Spread a thin layer in the baking dish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded chicken, chopped spinach, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each shell with the chicken and ricotta mixture.
Cooking
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.