Chicken Manicotti Alfredo Recipe

There is something irresistibly comforting about a rich and creamy pasta dish, and Chicken Manicotti Alfredo is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. This dish combines tender manicotti shells stuffed with a luscious mixture of shredded chicken, ricotta, and cheeses, all smothered in a velvety Alfredo sauce. It’s perfect for bringing a touch of hearty elegance to your dinner table, whether you’re treating your family or impressing guests. The flavors meld beautifully, making each bite a satisfying celebration of creamy, cheesy goodness and savory chicken.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, accessible ingredients that come together to create incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role in making this Chicken Manicotti Alfredo a creamy, satisfying dinner.

• Manicotti shells: 12 shells, perfect for stuffing and holding the rich filling.
• Cooked chicken: 2 cups shredded, providing protein and a hearty bite.
• Ricotta cheese: 1 cup, for creamy texture and mild flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup shredded, adding gooey, melty goodness on top.
• Parmesan cheese: ½ cup grated, bringing sharp, nutty notes to the mix.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon, essential for balancing all the flavors.
• Pepper: ½ teaspoon, to add a gentle kick without overwhelming.
• Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon, enhancing the depth of flavor.
• Alfredo sauce: 2 cups, the luscious creamy base that ties everything together.
• Fresh parsley: for garnish, to brighten the dish with a pop of color and mild herbal freshness.

How to Make Chicken Manicotti Alfredo

Step 1: Prepare the Manicotti

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the manicotti shells according to package instructions until they are al dente, which means they should be tender but still firm to the bite. Drain them carefully and set aside to cool, so they hold their shape during the filling process.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, cook diced chicken breast seasoned with salt and pepper. It takes about 5 to 7 minutes for the chicken to turn completely white and cooked through. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and let the chicken cool enough to shred easily.

Step 3: Mix Filling Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with ricotta, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and finely chopped parsley. Stir everything until well mixed into a creamy, flavorful filling that will complement the pasta perfectly.

Step 4: Fill the Manicotti

Using a spoon or piping bag, gently fill each manicotti shell with the chicken and cheese mixture. Take your time to avoid breaking the shells, filling them just enough to be full but not overstuffed.

Step 5: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, filling your kitchen with an inviting aroma. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan until the sauce thickens just slightly, then season with salt and pepper to taste. This rich Alfredo sauce is the magic that envelops the stuffed shells.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce at the bottom of your baking dish. Carefully place the filled manicotti shells in a single layer, then generously pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over them. Make sure every piece is well covered for maximum creaminess.

Step 7: Bake the Manicotti

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the top turns a lovely golden brown and bubbles invitingly. This finishing step allows the cheese to melt perfectly and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let your Chicken Manicotti Alfredo rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a fresh, bright contrast to the rich dish. Serve warm and savor every bite!

How to Serve Chicken Manicotti Alfredo

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic and simple garnish that adds just the right amount of color and a hint of brightness to this rich dish. You can also sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan cheese on top right before serving for a little extra cheesy punch.

Side Dishes

Because Chicken Manicotti Alfredo is so creamy and filling, pairing it with lighter sides works best. Consider a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to balance the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try baking this dish in individual ramekins for personal servings. You can also top each serving with a roasted cherry tomato or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to add a fresh, tangy flavor contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, Chicken Manicotti Alfredo will keep well for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy a delicious reheated portion any time soon.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Assemble it as directed but stop before the baking step. Wrap the baking dish tightly or transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers, then freeze for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until warmed through and bubbly. If reheating individual portions, a microwave works well—just cover and heat in short intervals to avoid drying out the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using store-bought Alfredo sauce can save time and still deliver great flavor, but making your own from scratch adds an extra layer of creaminess and freshness that really shines.

What type of chicken is best for Chicken Manicotti Alfredo?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal because they shred nicely and have a mild flavor that complements the cheeses and sauce perfectly.

Can I prepare this dish vegetarian-friendly?

To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and double up on the cheeses and herbs in the filling. You could also add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to replace the protein.

Is it okay to bake the manicotti covered with foil the entire time?

It’s best to bake covered for the first 30 minutes to keep the moisture in and ensure even cooking, then remove the foil so the top can brown and develop a pleasing golden crust.

How can I make the filling more flavorful?

Adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano, a pinch of nutmeg in the cheese mixture, or even a little crushed red pepper can amp up the flavor and bring wonderful complexity to the filling.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a recipe that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory chicken, Chicken Manicotti Alfredo is exactly what you need on your table. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s the perfect dish to cozy up to on any night. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and enjoy the delicious warmth it brings to your home. Happy cooking!

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