When the sky starts to clear up and the temperatures rise, the thought of summer gatherings fills my mind. Nothing excites a crowd more than a hearty pasta dish, and this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Manicotti is not just any meal—it’s a culinary masterpiece that brings smiles to the table. Picture this: your loved ones gathered around, plates filled with tender pasta shells stuffed with creamy goodness, all while a refreshing salad sits alongside, adding a touch of crispness.
One of my go-to side dishes is a vibrant Italian Pasta Salad with chickpeas and crunchy veggies. The bright and zesty flavors of the salad make for a perfect refreshing counterpart to the richness of the manicotti. Let’s dive into the world of that heavenly cheese-filled pasta nestling under a blanket of Alfredo sauce.
What is Creamy Chicken Alfredo Manicotti?
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Manicotti is an Italian-American dish that features pasta shells filled with a rich mixture of creamy ricotta, tender chicken, and spinach, all cloaked by a luscious Alfredo sauce.
This comfort food strikes a perfect balance between indulgence and satisfaction. Its creamy texture and flavorful filling make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion—family dinners, gatherings, or simply when you want to treat yourself.
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The Ingredients
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the cooking process, here’s what you’ll need for this rich, creamy delight:
- 18 oz creamy ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced (for that extra depth of flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (trust me, it makes a difference)
- 2 cups shredded Italian cheese blend (or replace it with mozzarella for a milder taste)
- 1 package manicotti pasta shells
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 rotisserie chicken, meat removed from the bones and shredded (super convenient!)
- 9 oz fresh baby spinach leaves
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
- 1 batch Alfredo sauce (whether homemade or a good-quality store-bought)
Once gathered, we’re ready to embark on our culinary adventure.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Alfredo Manicotti
Let’s get straight to the fun part—making this tasty dish. Don’t worry; I’ll guide you every step of the way.
Step 1: Prepare Your Alfredo Sauce
Before diving into the filling and stuffing, I like to get my Alfredo sauce ready first. It’s usually simmering on the stove, infusing the kitchen with its rich aroma. If you’re making it from scratch, feel free to cream it with garlic, butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. If you’re opting for store-bought, choose wisely—look for something with minimal ingredients. There’s nothing like a creamy sauce that enchants your taste buds.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Time to crank up the heat! Preheat your oven to about 350°F (175°C). This helps ensure the manicotti cooks evenly and gets that perfectly bubbly finish.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine your ricotta cheese, egg, minced garlic, ground nutmeg, one cup of your Italian cheese blend (save the rest for later), shredded chicken, and fresh baby spinach. Mix it all together until blended but still chunky. The spinach adds a fresh pop, harmonizing with the creamy filling.
Step 4: Stuff the Manicotti
Fill each manicotti shell with your cheesy mixture. I use a piping bag for this part; it keeps things tidy. Slide the stuffing in gently, filling each shell but be careful not to burst them! If you don’t have a piping bag, a small spoon works well too. Just take your time.
Step 5: Arrange in the Baking Dish
Lightly grease your baking dish and spread a layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom. Lay the stuffed manicotti in a single layer atop the sauce. Pour the remaining sauce over the top and sprinkle the reserved Italian cheese blend and Parmesan on everything. It will create a lovely crust as it bakes!
Step 6: Bake the Manicotti
Cover the dish loosely with foil and pop it in your preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and let it bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until it’s golden and bubbling. The aroma wafting through the house will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner.
Step 7: Let It Rest
After you pull the dish from the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes. It may be tempting to dive right in, but this resting time helps set everything, making serving easier.
Notes
Here are some tips that can enhance your cooking experience:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Quality ingredients elevate the dish. Fresh spinach and high-quality cheese make a difference.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Always cook the manicotti shells al dente. They will continue to cook in the oven, and no one likes mushy pasta.
- Experiment with Cheese: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding feta or goat cheese to the ricotta for a tangy twist.
- Add Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs can be easily mixed into the filling. Basil and oregano work great.
- Make Ahead: You can stuff the manicotti and refrigerate it a day in advance. Just adjust the cooking time when baking.
Storage Tips
Leftovers, if there are any, can be stored conveniently! Just place them in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 3 days. If you want to save it for later, consider freezing it. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Nutrition Information
For those watching what they eat, here’s a rough estimate of the nutrition per serving (assuming about 6 servings):
- Calories: 500
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
Serving Suggestions
To complement the flavors and textures of Creamy Chicken Alfredo Manicotti, consider these serving ideas:
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery slice of garlic bread pairs perfectly. It’s a match made in heaven, allowing you to soak up that delicious Alfredo sauce.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tart dressing create a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. Plus, it adds some crunch!
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini and bell peppers add a smoky flavor that balances out the dish’s richness.
- Roasted Asparagus: This green veggie brings a nice touch of elegance and a pop of color. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins!
- Sangria: A chilled glass of fruity sangria adds a festive spirit to your dinner table. It’s refreshing and lighthearted.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Creamy Chicken Alfredo Manicotti?
Not a fan of chicken? No problem! Here are some fantastic substitutes for this recipe:
- Ground Turkey: A leaner alternative that offers a similar texture. Brown it before mixing with your ricotta for a healthy spin.
- Mushrooms: For a vegetarian twist, finely chop mushrooms and sauté them before mixing into the filling. They add a great umami flavor.
- Spinach Ricotta: If you want to amp up the spinach, try using a combination of spinach and ricotta alone without chicken. It’s both delightful and filling.
- Shrimp: Cook and chop shrimp to create a seafood version. It adds a unique flavor and is always a hit.
- Tofu: For a vegan-friendly option, replace the chicken and cheese with crumbled tofu seasoned with herbs. Mix it all in, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready!
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Manicotti
Equipment
- oven
- baking dish
Ingredients
- 18 oz creamy ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves finely minced (for that extra depth of flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg trust me, it makes a difference
- 2 cups shredded Italian cheese blend or replace it with mozzarella for a milder taste
- 1 package manicotti pasta shells
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 rotisserie chicken meat removed from the bones and shredded (super convenient!)
- 9 oz fresh baby spinach leaves
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
- 1 batch Alfredo sauce whether homemade or a good-quality store-bought
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Alfredo Sauce
- Before diving into the filling and stuffing, I like to get my Alfredo sauce ready first. It’s usually simmering on the stove, infusing the kitchen with its rich aroma. If you’re making it from scratch, feel free to cream it with garlic, butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. If you’re opting for store-bought, choose wisely—look for something with minimal ingredients. There’s nothing like a creamy sauce that enchants your taste buds.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
- Time to crank up the heat! Preheat your oven to about 350°F (175°C). This helps ensure the manicotti cooks evenly and gets that perfectly bubbly finish.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine your ricotta cheese, egg, minced garlic, ground nutmeg, one cup of your Italian cheese blend (save the rest for later), shredded chicken, and fresh baby spinach. Mix it all together until blended but still chunky. The spinach adds a fresh pop, harmonizing with the creamy filling.
Step 4: Stuff the Manicotti
- Fill each manicotti shell with your cheesy mixture. I use a piping bag for this part; it keeps things tidy. Slide the stuffing in gently, filling each shell but be careful not to burst them! If you don’t have a piping bag, a small spoon works well too. Just take your time.
Step 5: Arrange in the Baking Dish
- Lightly grease your baking dish and spread a layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom. Lay the stuffed manicotti in a single layer atop the sauce. Pour the remaining sauce over the top and sprinkle the reserved Italian cheese blend and Parmesan on everything. It will create a lovely crust as it bakes!
Step 6: Bake the Manicotti
- Cover the dish loosely with foil and pop it in your preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and let it bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until it’s golden and bubbling. The aroma wafting through the house will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner.
Step 7: Let It Rest
- After you pull the dish from the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes. It may be tempting to dive right in, but this resting time helps set everything, making serving easier.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Quality ingredients elevate the dish. Fresh spinach and high-quality cheese make a difference.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Always cook the manicotti shells al dente. They will continue to cook in the oven, and no one likes mushy pasta.
- Experiment with Cheese: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding feta or goat cheese to the ricotta for a tangy twist.
- Add Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs can be easily mixed into the filling. Basil and oregano work great.
- Make Ahead: You can stuff the manicotti and refrigerate it a day in advance. Just adjust the cooking time when baking.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use regular ricotta instead of creamy ricotta?
Yes, but creamy ricotta is smoother and gives a softer texture. Regular should work fine, just be aware it might be a bit grainier.
Q2: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free manicotti shells and ensure your Alfredo sauce is gluten-free.
Q3: How long can I leave this dish in the freezer?
For optimal flavor and texture, consume the dish within 3 months of freezing.
Q4: What should I do if my filling is too runny?
If your mixture is too loose, try adding more ricotta or a bit of breadcrumbs to thicken it up.
Q5: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply substitute the chicken with vegetables or tofu, following other preparation steps as usual.
Conclusion
Creating Creamy Chicken Alfredo Manicotti is truly a labor of love. As the layers of flavors meld together, you can feel the warmth radiate through your kitchen. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying a quiet meal with family, it’s a dish that brings people together. So next time you gather around the dinner table, serve this creamy delight alongside your favorite side salad, and you’ll surely bask in the praises. Happy cooking!
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Hi! I'm Mary Lee. I love helping people eat yummy and healthy food. I live in Oregon. Cooking is my happy place. Let's make tasty dishes together!
