Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Why You’ll Love These Stuffed Shells
- A Cozy Classic with a Chicken Twist
- The Flavor Power of Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- Perfect for Make-Ahead Dinners
- Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Tips for the Best Stuffed Shells Recipe
Key Takeaways
This stuffed shells recipe is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, creamy, and packed with flavor from spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and seasoned chicken. It’s ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering.
Why You’ll Love These Stuffed Shells
Stuffed shells recipes have always been a favorite in my kitchen, and this version takes it to the next level. With tender pasta shells filled with a savory blend of chicken, spinach, and creamy ricotta, every bite is satisfying and comforting. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes adds a tangy depth that truly elevates this dish.
A Cozy Classic with a Chicken Twist
If you’re looking for chicken dinner ideas that feel familiar yet exciting, this dish from Patricia on Patricia Universe will quickly become your go-to. The stuffed shells recipe gives a nod to tradition while incorporating protein-packed chicken to make it a complete and filling meal.
The Flavor Power of Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes bring an umami punch and a hint of sweetness to this easy pasta bake. Mixed into the stuffing, they complement the chicken and spinach perfectly. This stuffed shells recipe balances creaminess and brightness in every forkful.
Perfect for Make-Ahead Dinners
Looking for weeknight dinners you can prep in advance? This meal delivers! You can assemble the shells ahead of time and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Whether you’re hosting or planning a quiet family meal, it’s a comforting and convenient solution.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This stuffed shells recipe pairs well with garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables. Add a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon, and you’ve got yourself a complete, satisfying dinner spread.
Tips for the Best Stuffed Shells Recipe
Use quality ingredients—especially the cheese and sun-dried tomatoes—for the richest flavor. For a creamier texture, blend some mozzarella into the filling. And if you want to spice it up, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes works wonders.
Whether you’re browsing comfort food recipes, in need of easy pasta bake ideas, or just exploring new chicken dinner ideas, this recipe hits all the right notes. You’ll find more recipes like this on Patricia Universe, where Patricia shares wholesome, hearty meals made for real life.
Stuffed Shells with Chicken, Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1½ cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, cooked spinach, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Spread ¾ cup marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Stuff each shell with about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture and arrange in the dish.
- Top shells with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
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