Garlic Chicken Spinach Stuffed Shells for Easy Dinner

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Garlic Chicken Spinach Stuffed Shells are a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. Filled with garlicky ricotta, chicken, and spinach, then baked in marinara sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also pleases a crowd. The comforting aroma of garlic wafts through your kitchen as it bakes, making it hard to resist. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Chicken Spinach Stuffed

This Garlic Chicken Spinach Stuffed Recipe is a versatile dish that everyone will love. Here are just a few reasons:

It’s packed with protein from the chicken and cheese, making it a healthy option.
The combination of flavors from the garlic and spinach creates a delightful taste.
Perfect for meal prep, making it a Quick Garlic Chicken Spinach Meal for busy days.
This dish is low-carb, ideal for anyone watching their carbohydrate intake.
It’s easy to customize with your favorite spices and herbs.
The meal is gluten-free, suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
It can be served as a comforting main course or as a party dish.
It has a beautiful presentation, making it perfect for entertaining.

Ingredients for Garlic Chicken Spinach Stuffed

Gather these items:

32 (around 8 oz) jumbo pasta shells
1 Tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
5 ounces (142g) fresh spinach
15 ounces (425g) ricotta cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 large egg
1/3 cup (34g) grated parmesan cheese
1 and 1/2 cups (170g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
2 cups (300g) chopped or shredded cooked chicken breast
24-ounce (680g) jar marinara sauce (about 3 cups), divided
for serving: fresh basil and more parmesan

How to Make Garlic Chicken Spinach Stuffed Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar size (about 3-quart) casserole dish. Set aside.
Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the jumbo shells. Boil the shells until just al dente, about 9 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water. Lay the shells, open side up, on a baking sheet.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the garlic for 30 seconds, then add the spinach. Cook, stirring, until the spinach wilts and cooks down, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 4: In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, egg, parmesan, and 1 cup (113g) of the mozzarella. Fold in the chicken and garlic-spinach mixture. Spoon the filling evenly into the shells.
Step 5: Pour about 2 cups (about 450g) of sauce into the prepared baking dish to just cover the bottom.
Step 6: Fill the shells and arrange in the baking dish.
Step 7: Pour the remaining sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Step 8: Bake, uncovered, for 20–25 minutes. Serve with fresh basil and extra parmesan, if desired.

Garlic Chicken Spinach Stuffed Shells for Easy Dinner - Garlic Chicken Spinach Stuffed - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Garlic Chicken Spinach Stuffed

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture in your Garlic and Spinach Chicken Filling.
Boil the pasta shells until just al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
For a creamier filling, consider adding cream cheese to the ricotta mixture.
Make sure to let it cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth!

Best Ways to Serve Garlic Chicken Spinach Stuffed

Here are a few serving ideas:

Pair with a fresh salad for a Healthy Garlic Chicken Spinach Dish.
Serve with garlic bread for a comforting Italian-inspired meal.
Top with fresh basil and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for added flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Garlic Chicken Spinach Stuffed

To store leftovers, place the stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to 3 days. To reheat, simply bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This method helps maintain the pasta’s texture and flavor. Meal prep has never been easier!

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Chicken Spinach Stuffed

What’s the secret to perfect Garlic Chicken Spinach Stuffed?

The secret lies in the quality of ingredients. Using fresh garlic and spinach enhances the flavor, and ensuring the pasta shells are not overcooked is key. This will keep your Stuffed Chicken Breast with Garlic and Spinach from being mushy.

Can I make Garlic Chicken Spinach Stuffed ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the shells a day in advance. Just cover them and store in the fridge. When ready to serve, add the sauce and bake for a quick Easy Garlic Spinach Stuffed Chicken meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Garlic Chicken Spinach Stuffed?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure not to overfill the shells as they can burst while baking. Also, keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure the cheese doesn’t burn. This will keep your Garlicky Spinach-Stuffed Chicken looking and tasting great!

Variations of Garlic Chicken Spinach Stuffed You Can Try

Here are some variations you can explore:

Substitute the chicken with turkey for a leaner option.
Add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes in the filling.
Try using different types of cheese based on your preference.

Garlic Chicken Spinach Stuffed Shells for Easy Dinner - Garlic Chicken Spinach Stuffed - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet or Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken. You might also enjoy Pumpkin Sage Pasta for a seasonal twist!