Imagine a cozy evening, the aroma of melting cheese and savory chicken filling your kitchen, and the promise of a comforting dinner just waiting to be served. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, then look no further than this Chicken and Spinach Ravioli Bake. This dish combines the delightful textures of cheese ravioli, tender chicken, and vibrant spinach, all brought together with a rich marinara sauce and bubbling cheese. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying.
The Upside of Chicken and Spinach Ravioli Bake
One of the best things about Chicken and Spinach Ravioli Bake is its versatility. Whether you’re whipping it up for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or even a cozy date night at home, this dish delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. The combination of creamy cheese, nutritious spinach, and protein-packed chicken makes it a balanced meal that can be served alone or with a side salad. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies for those who might be a bit picky about their greens.
Another plus? This recipe is straightforward and can be customized to fit your taste preferences. You can easily swap out ingredients, add extra veggies, or even make it vegetarian. So, let’s dive right into making this delicious Chicken and Spinach Ravioli Bake!
Ingredients at a Glance
- 12 ounces fresh or frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Kitchen Gear Checklist
- Large skillet – for sautéing the onion and garlic.
- Mixing bowl – to combine the filling ingredients.
- Baking dish – to layer and bake the ravioli.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy in your ingredients.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for mixing and serving.
From Start to Finish: Chicken and Spinach Ravioli Bake
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Spinach and Chicken
Now, toss in the chopped spinach, stirring until it wilts, which should take about 2 minutes. Next, add the shredded chicken, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, then remove from heat.
Step 3: Cook the Ravioli
If you are using fresh ravioli, cook them according to the package instructions until they float to the surface, usually about 2-3 minutes. If using frozen ravioli, cook them until they are tender but not overcooked. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Layer the Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the chicken and spinach mixture on the bottom. Layer half of the cooked ravioli on top, then add more of the chicken and spinach mixture. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining chicken and spinach mixture.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the dish.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Substitutions by Diet
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Use gluten-free ravioli to make this dish gluten-free.
- Swap out the mozzarella for dairy-free cheese alternatives if you’re looking for a plant-based version.
- For added flavor, try using pesto instead of marinara sauce.
Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them
To ensure your Chicken and Spinach Ravioli Bake comes out perfectly every time, consider these tips:
- Don’t overcook the ravioli before baking, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Make sure to cover the baking dish with foil initially to prevent the cheese from burning before the ravioli are heated through.
- If the dish looks too dry after baking, you can add a splash of extra marinara sauce or a bit of chicken broth before serving.
Save It for Later
This Chicken and Spinach Ravioli Bake makes for great leftovers! Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reader Questions
Can I use different types of ravioli?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with any variety of ravioli, whether it’s cheese, spinach, or even meat-filled. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like a kick of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the chicken and spinach mixture or incorporating a spicy marinara sauce. Both will elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
Is there a way to make this dish more cheesy?
For a cheesier experience, feel free to add more mozzarella or even mix in some ricotta cheese into the chicken and spinach mixture before layering it in the baking dish.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator, covered, for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight out of the fridge.
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Serve & Enjoy
Gather your loved ones around the table and serve up generous portions of this Chicken and Spinach Ravioli Bake. The combination of flavors and textures will have everyone coming back for seconds. Pair it with a fresh green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also warms the heart, making it a perfect recipe for any occasion. Enjoy every bite of this comforting classic!
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Chicken and Spinach Ravioli Bake
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh or frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Now, toss in the chopped spinach, stirring until it wilts, which should take about 2 minutes. Next, add the shredded chicken, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, then remove from heat.
- If you are using fresh ravioli, cook them according to the package instructions until they float to the surface, usually about 2-3 minutes. If using frozen ravioli, cook them until they are tender but not overcooked. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the chicken and spinach mixture on the bottom. Layer half of the cooked ravioli on top, then add more of the chicken and spinach mixture. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining chicken and spinach mixture.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the dish.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Notes
- Don’t overcook the ravioli before baking, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Cover the baking dish with foil initially to prevent the cheese from burning.
- If the dish looks too dry, add a splash of marinara sauce before serving.
