Introduction

Chicken Manicotti Alfredo is a delightful pasta dish that combines creamy Alfredo sauce with tender chicken and cheese-stuffed manicotti shells. This dish is a favorite among many for its rich flavors and comforting texture. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe will not only satisfy your hunger but also impress your guests with its gourmet feel.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Manicotti shells – 12 shells
Cooked chicken – 2 cups, shredded
Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
Mozzarella cheese – 1 cup, shredded
Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
Salt – ½ teaspoon
Pepper – ½ teaspoon
Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
Alfredo sauce – 2 cups
Fresh parsley – for garnish

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time – 30 minutes
Total Time – 45 minutes
Yield – 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Manicotti

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the manicotti shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, cook diced chicken breast until it’s no longer pink inside. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it cool.

Mix Filling Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, grated parmesan cheese, chopped herbs (like parsley), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Fill the Manicotti

Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each manicotti shell with the chicken and cheese mixture. Be gentle to avoid breaking the shells.

Prepare the Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Then, add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Dish

Spread a thin layer of the Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the filled manicotti shells in a single layer in the dish. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the top, ensuring that all shells are covered.

Bake the Manicotti

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the manicotti from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Manicotti Shells

Make sure to cook the manicotti shells just until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy while baking.

Chicken Options

You can use rotisserie chicken to save time; just shred it before mixing with the cheese filling.

Can I Make This Ahead?

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Freezer Friendly

This dish freezes well. After assembling, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Variations

Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetables to the cheese mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

Cook techniques

Cooking the Manicotti

For the perfect manicotti, ensure that the pasta is cooked al dente. This will allow the pasta to hold its shape when stuffed and baked.

Preparing the Alfredo Sauce

To achieve a creamy Alfredo sauce, melt butter in a saucepan, add heavy cream, and simmer while whisking in parmesan cheese until smooth.

Stuffing the Manicotti

Use a piping bag or a spoon to carefully fill the manicotti shells with the ricotta cheese mixture, ensuring they’re filled completely for even cooking and flavor.

Baking the Dish

Bake the manicotti in a preheated oven, covered with foil to keep moisture in. Remove the foil during the last part of baking to allow the cheese to brown slightly.

Garnishing

Consider garnishing the finished dish with freshly chopped parsley or extra parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.

FAQ

Can I make the manicotti ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the manicotti in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just make sure to adjust baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cream cheese mixed with a little milk or cottage cheese can serve as a substitute for ricotta if needed.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Yes, you can keep it vegetarian by using vegetable-based fillings or other cheese varieties without meat.

Can I freeze the manicotti?

Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked manicotti, covered tightly. Just bake it directly from the freezer while extending the baking time.

What side dishes pair well with chicken manicotti?

Serving a fresh salad or garlic bread alongside the manicotti complements the rich flavors of the dish beautifully.

Conclusion

The Chicken Manicotti Alfredo is a delectable and satisfying dish that marries the richness of Alfredo sauce with the heartiness of stuffed pasta. This creamy, flavorful recipe is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, providing a delightful meal that is sure to impress your guests.

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