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Now that your chicken filling is prepared and your shells have been cooked to al dente perfection, it’s time to start stuffing. This step is crucial to ensure each shell is filled generously with the delicious mixture.

Baked Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells

Experience the joy of comfort food with Baked Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells, a delightful blend of classic Chicken Parmesan and hearty stuffed pasta. This easy-to-make dish features large pasta shells filled with a savory mix of shredded chicken, ricotta, and flavorful cheeses, all topped with zesty marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, these shells are sure to bring everyone together at the table for a satisfying and memorable meal.
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Ingredients
  

12 jumbo pasta shells

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg, beaten

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta Shells:

    Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente (firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain the shells in a colander and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the shells aside on a clean kitchen towel to dry slightly.

      Prepare the Filling:

        In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and salt and pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly until it is well combined and creamy.

          Stuff the Shells:

            Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a suitable baking dish, spread a generous layer of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom. Carefully take each cooked pasta shell and fill it with the chicken and cheese filling, using a spoon or small spatula. Once filled, place the stuffed shells in a single layer in the baking dish, seam side up.

              Add Sauce and Cheese:

                After all the shells are stuffed, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the filled shells, making sure they are well-coated. Finish by sprinkling an additional amount of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce to create a cheesy crust.

                  Bake:

                    Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown on top.

                      Serve:

                        Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for about five minutes. Just before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your comforting Baked Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells!

                          Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4

                            - Presentation Tips: Serve the stuffed shells directly from the baking dish for a rustic look, or transfer to individual plates. Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for a gourmet touch!