Million Dollar Chicken Stuffed Shells

Million Dollar Chicken Stuffed Shells

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken Filling:
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or finely chopped
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 cup spinach, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Sauce:
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Assembly:
  • 12-16 jumbo pasta shells, cooked al dente
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Filling:
   • In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, spinach (if using), egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a saucepan, combine the marinara sauce and heavy cream over medium heat. Stir in the 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through and slightly thickened. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Assemble the Stuffed Shells:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Spread a thin layer of the prepared sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
   • Fill each cooked pasta shell with the chicken mixture and place them in the baking dish, open side up.
   • Pour the remaining sauce over the stuffed shells.
   • Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
4. Bake:
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Million Dollar Chicken Stuffed Shells!