Description
A decadent baked pasta dish featuring tender manicotti shells stuffed with creamy chicken and cheese filling, topped with rich Alfredo sauce and melted cheese. Comforting, elegant, and irresistibly creamy — perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
12 manicotti shells (cooked al dente)
2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie recommended)
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
3 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons butter
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook manicotti shells until al dente, then drain and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and shredded chicken. Mix until smooth.
- Carefully fill each manicotti shell with the chicken-cheese mixture using a piping bag or spoon.
- Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of the baking dish, then arrange filled manicotti in a single layer.
- Pour remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the shells and sprinkle extra mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
To prevent tearing, slightly undercook manicotti shells and use a piping bag for filling.
Add spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
Use low-fat ricotta and light Alfredo sauce for a lighter version.
Substitute chicken with turkey, crab, or vegetables for different variations.
Make ahead by assembling the dish a day early and refrigerating before baking.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze unbaked for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 2 manicotti shells)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
