Chicken Spinach Alfredo Baked Stuffed Shells: A Comfort Food Masterpiece

Craving a comforting, satisfying meal that’s both impressive and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than these Chicken Spinach Alfredo Baked Stuffed Shells! This recipe combines jumbo pasta shells with a creamy, flavorful filling of chicken, spinach, and rich Alfredo sauce, all baked to golden perfection under a blanket of melted cheese. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve up something truly special.

This recipe is designed to be approachable for home cooks of all skill levels. We’ll break down each step, offering tips and tricks to ensure your stuffed shells turn out perfectly every time. Get ready to experience a symphony of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds!

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Comfort Food at Its Finest:** This dish is the epitome of comfort food. The creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy topping create a warm and satisfying experience.
* **Impressive Yet Easy:** While it looks impressive, this recipe is surprisingly straightforward. The steps are simple, and the results are outstanding.
* **Customizable:** Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking. Add different vegetables, cheeses, or spices to create your own unique twist.
* **Perfect for Meal Prep:** These stuffed shells are great for meal prepping. You can assemble them ahead of time and bake them when you’re ready to eat. They also reheat beautifully.
* **Crowd-Pleaser:** This dish is always a hit with family and friends. It’s perfect for potlucks, dinner parties, or any gathering where you want to impress.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Jumbo Pasta Shells:** The star of the show! Choose a high-quality brand of jumbo shells for the best results. You’ll need about 24-30 shells.
* **Chicken Breast:** Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the most convenient. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. About 1.5-2 lbs.
* **Spinach:** Fresh or frozen spinach works well. If using frozen, be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water. About 10 oz frozen or 1 lb fresh.
* **Alfredo Sauce:** You can use store-bought Alfredo sauce for convenience, or make your own from scratch. I’ll include a simple homemade Alfredo recipe below. About 3-4 cups.
* **Ricotta Cheese:** Adds creaminess and richness to the filling. About 15 oz.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** Adds a salty, savory flavor. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste. About 1 cup, divided.
* **Mozzarella Cheese:** Creates a gooey, cheesy topping. Shredded mozzarella works best. About 2 cups.
* **Egg:** Helps bind the filling together. 1 large egg.
* **Garlic:** Adds a pungent, aromatic flavor. Mince about 2-3 cloves.
* **Onion:** Adds sweetness and depth of flavor. Dice about 1 small onion.
* **Italian Seasoning:** A blend of herbs that adds a classic Italian flavor. About 1 teaspoon.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste.
* **Olive Oil:** For sautéing the vegetables and chicken. About 2 tablespoons.
* **Optional:** Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, fresh parsley for garnish.

## Homemade Alfredo Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer to make your own Alfredo sauce, here’s a simple recipe:

* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 cups heavy cream
* 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get to the fun part – making the Chicken Spinach Alfredo Baked Stuffed Shells!

**Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells**

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package directions, but cook them al dente. This means they should be slightly firm to the bite, as they will continue to cook in the oven. This is important to prevent them from becoming mushy. Cooking for 1-2 minutes less than the package suggests is generally recommended.
3. Drain the pasta shells and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process.
4. Gently place the cooked shells on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. A light drizzle of olive oil can also help.

**Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Spinach**

1. If using fresh spinach, wash it thoroughly. If using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water.
2. Cut the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces. You can also shred the chicken if you prefer. If using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, shred it and set aside.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-5 minutes, until softened.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
6. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until cooked through and lightly browned. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Approximately 5-7 minutes.
7. Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. If using fresh spinach, it will only take a few minutes. If using frozen spinach, it may take a bit longer. Make sure any excess water is cooked off.
8. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.

**Step 3: Make the Filling**

1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, ½ cup of the grated Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
2. Add the cooked chicken and spinach mixture to the ricotta cheese mixture. Stir well to combine.
3. Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste. Be mindful that Parmesan cheese is salty, so you may not need much additional salt.

**Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Shells**

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. A deeper dish is better to accommodate the shells and sauce.
3. Spread about 1 cup of the Alfredo sauce evenly over the bottom of the baking dish. This will prevent the shells from sticking and add flavor.
4. Take each cooked pasta shell and carefully stuff it with the chicken and spinach filling. Use a spoon or your fingers to pack the filling in tightly. The shells should be generously filled.
5. Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, side by side. Try to fit them snugly without overcrowding them.

**Step 5: Bake the Stuffed Shells**

1. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, making sure to cover them completely. If you find you need a bit more sauce, you can add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out slightly.
2. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and the remaining ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the shells. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed for optimal melting and browning.
3. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help to keep the shells moist and prevent the cheese from burning.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
5. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them during this final baking stage to prevent burning.
6. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the stuffed shells rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the cheese to set slightly and make it easier to serve.

**Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!**

1. Garnish the Chicken Spinach Alfredo Baked Stuffed Shells with fresh parsley, if desired.
2. Serve hot and enjoy! These stuffed shells are delicious on their own or with a side salad or garlic bread.

## Tips and Tricks for Perfect Stuffed Shells

* **Don’t Overcook the Pasta:** As mentioned earlier, it’s crucial to cook the pasta shells al dente. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and fall apart when you stuff them. Test the pasta frequently while it’s cooking.
* **Cool the Filling Slightly:** Let the chicken and spinach mixture cool slightly before mixing it with the ricotta cheese. This will prevent the ricotta from becoming watery.
* **Drain Spinach Thoroughly:** Whether you’re using fresh or frozen spinach, make sure to remove as much excess water as possible. Excess water will make the filling watery and affect the consistency of the sauce.
* **Don’t Overfill the Shells:** While you want to fill the shells generously, avoid overfilling them. Overfilling can cause the shells to burst during baking.
* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** Using high-quality ingredients, especially the cheeses and Alfredo sauce, will make a big difference in the flavor of the dish.
* **Adjust the Seasoning:** Taste the filling and sauce before baking and adjust the seasoning as needed. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder are all good options.
* **Cover with Foil:** Covering the baking dish with foil during the first part of baking helps to keep the shells moist and prevent the cheese from burning.
* **Broil for Extra Browning:** If you want a more browned and bubbly cheese topping, you can broil the stuffed shells for a minute or two at the end of baking. Watch them closely to prevent burning!
* **Let Rest Before Serving:** Allowing the stuffed shells to rest for a few minutes before serving will allow the cheese to set and make them easier to serve.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Meat:** Substitute the chicken with ground beef, Italian sausage, shrimp, or leave it vegetarian.
* **Vegetables:** Add other vegetables to the filling, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts.
* **Cheese:** Experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone, fontina, or Gruyere.
* **Sauce:** Use a different sauce altogether, such as marinara sauce, pesto sauce, or a creamy tomato sauce.
* **Spices:** Add different spices to the filling, such as red pepper flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, or dried oregano.
* **Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free pasta shells to make this dish gluten-free.
* **Dairy-Free:** Use dairy-free ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Alfredo sauce to make this dish dairy-free. Substitute vegan butter for the butter in the Alfredo sauce. Cashew-based Alfredo sauces are available commercially as well.

## Serving Suggestions

Chicken Spinach Alfredo Baked Stuffed Shells are a complete meal on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of side dishes:

* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing accompaniment.
* **Garlic Bread:** Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy Alfredo sauce.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, add a healthy and flavorful element.
* **Steamed Green Beans:** Steamed green beans are a simple and nutritious side dish.
* **Caesar Salad:** A classic Caesar salad is always a crowd-pleaser.

## Storage and Reheating Instructions

**Storage:**

* **Refrigerator:** Store leftover Chicken Spinach Alfredo Baked Stuffed Shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Freezer:** For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed shells. Let them cool completely before freezing. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

**Reheating:**

* **Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last few minutes of baking to allow the cheese to melt and bubble.
* **Microwave:** Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the shells tough.

## Conclusion

These Chicken Spinach Alfredo Baked Stuffed Shells are a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With their creamy filling, cheesy topping, and comforting flavors, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable dish!

This recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it’s an invitation to create something special in your kitchen. It’s about bringing people together over a shared love of good food. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Add your favorite spices, vegetables, or cheeses. The possibilities are endless!

So, what are you waiting for? Get cooking and create your own Chicken Spinach Alfredo Baked Stuffed Shell masterpiece today!