Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Shells

Indulge in the rich comfort of Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Shells, a perfect blend of creamy cheese, tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and savory artichokes nestled in large pasta shells. This hearty dish shines at family dinners or gatherings with friends, delivering both flavor and nutrition. Easy to prepare in advance, it allows for more time with loved ones while serving a meal that's both indulgent and wholesome. Discover how to create this delightful dish today!

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Ingredients

12 large jumbo pasta shells

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup artichoke hearts, chopped (canned or frozen, thoroughly drained)

1 cup cream cheese, softened at room temperature

½ cup sour cream

½ cup grated parmesan cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes, until they are al dente. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.

Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. Add the minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for an additional minute until it's aromatic.

Prepare the Filling: To the chicken in the skillet, add the chopped spinach and artichoke hearts. Cook for around 2-3 minutes, stirring until the spinach has wilted. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly while you prepare the next step.

Make the Creamy Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, grated parmesan cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until the ingredients form a smooth, creamy consistency. Carefully fold in the chicken and vegetable mixture, ensuring everything is well incorporated. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Fill the Shells: Using a teaspoon or your fingers, carefully spoon the creamy filling into each cooked pasta shell, ensuring that each shell is generously stuffed.

Assemble in Baking Dish: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Place the filled pasta shells seam-side up in the dish. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the filled shells and sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.

Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.

Garnish and Serve: After baking, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

Prep time: 20 minutes | Total time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Presentation Tips:

Serve these delicious chicken shells on individual plates or in a large serving dish. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper can enhance the flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy with a side salad for a complete meal!