As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil pulled me back to Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house. It’s where family gathered around the table, eagerly awaiting her famous Cheesy Chicken Manicotti—a timeless Italian-American classic that has comforted generations. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a cozy embrace of tender pasta stuffed with seasoned chicken and creamy ricotta. With its quick prep time, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something hearty yet satisfying. Plus, this family-friendly recipe keeps everyone happily coming back for seconds! Ready to whip up a plateful of warmth that will make your loved ones cheer? Let’s dive in! Why is Cheesy Chicken Manicotti a Family Favorite? Deliciously Cheesy: Each bite delivers a heavenly combination of gooey mozzarella and creamy ricotta that melts in your mouth. Super Simple: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together quickly without compromising on flavor—making it a go-to for last-minute dinners. Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: The savory chicken filling and rich marinara sauce evoke the warmth of family gatherings, ensuring everyone returns for seconds. Customization Options: Easily swap ingredients for a vegetarian version or try different cheese blends, like Pepper Jack for a zesty twist. Easy Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container, allowing the flavors to deepen—making your next meal just as delightful as the first. Memorable Tradition: This dish connects families and creates cherished memories, harkening back to those beloved Sunday dinners. Cheesy Chicken Manicotti Ingredients For the Filling Manicotti Pasta – Provides structure and serves as the vessel for the filling. Use any tubular pasta if manicotti is unavailable. Shredded Cooked Chicken – Adds protein and flavor. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Ricotta Cheese – Acts as a creamy base for filling, contributing lightness. Substitute with cottage cheese for a different texture. Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully to create a gooey, cheesy top. Use low-fat mozzarella for a healthier option. Parmesan Cheese – Adds a sharp, salty flavor that enhances the dish. Omit for a lactose-free version, or replace with nutritional yeast. For the Sauce & Seasoning Marinara Sauce – Moistens the pasta and adds a rich tomato flavor. Opt for homemade or any favorite brand. Olive Oil – Adds richness and prevents sticking. Can be replaced with cooking spray. Garlic – Provides aromatic flavor. Use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable. Dried Italian Seasoning – Enhances the overall flavor profile with herbal notes. Fresh herbs can be substituted in double the quantity. Black Pepper – Adds a hint of spice. Adjust to taste. Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement. Taste while cooking to avoid over-salting. For Garnish Fresh Parsley – For garnish, offering a pop of color and fresh flavor. Can be omitted or replaced with basil. This Cheesy Chicken Manicotti recipe comes together effortlessly, bringing a comforting, delicious meal that wraps your loved ones in a warm hug of flavor! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Chicken Manicotti Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your Cheesy Chicken Manicotti cooks evenly. A properly heated oven is essential for achieving that golden, bubbling top that we all love. While the oven warms up, you can prepare the pasta and filling. Step 2: Cook the Manicotti In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and carefully add the manicotti pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 7-9 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly. It’s important not to overcook it, as the pasta will continue to cook in the oven. Step 3: Prepare the Filling In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Use a fork or spoon to mix until well combined. The filling should be creamy with visible chunks of chicken, creating a delightful contrast when stuffed into the manicotti. Step 4: Stuff the Manicotti Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each manicotti shell with the chicken mixture, ensuring they are generously packed. Arrange the stuffed manicotti seam-side down in a greased baking dish. This step is crucial for the Cheesy Chicken Manicotti, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully during baking. Step 5: Assemble the Dish Once all the manicotti are filled, pour your marinara sauce evenly over the pasta, ensuring they are well-covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust when baked, giving your Cheesy Chicken Manicotti an irresistible finish. Step 6: Bake the Manicotti Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 30 minutes until heated through. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbling and has turned a lovely golden brown. Step 7: Let It Rest Once out of the oven, allow your Cheesy Chicken Manicotti to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the dish set, making it easier to serve. As it cools, the flavors will deepen, and you’ll notice that delightful cheese pull when serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness before diving in! Expert Tips for Cheesy Chicken Manicotti Pasta Perfection: Cook the manicotti al dente to avoid mushiness; it should hold its shape while absorbing flavors during baking. Filling Ease: Use a piping bag for stuffing the shells—it simplifies the process and minimizes mess, making your Cheesy Chicken Manicotti preparation smooth. Marinara Choice: Opt for high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor; homemade is great if you have the time, but store-bought can be just as delicious. Cheese Variety: Explore different cheese blends for stuffing, such as adding some Pepper Jack for a spicy kick or using a lactose-free version for dietary needs. Rest Before Serving: Allowing the baked manicotti to sit for a few minutes helps the filling set and enhances the cheese pulls when you serve, making each bite more satisfying. Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also brightens the dish’s rich flavors, making your Cheesy Chicken Manicotti look as good as it tastes. What to Serve with Cheesy Chicken Manicotti Transform your dinner table into a comforting Italian feast with these delightful pairings! Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery slices of garlic bread offer a crunchy contrast to the creamy manicotti, making every bite a symphony of flavors. Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens with a tangy vinaigrette balance the richness of the dish, bringing brightness and freshness to the plate. Steamed Broccoli: Tender, vibrant florets add a nutritious touch, beautifully offsetting the cheesy goodness with their slight bitterness. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted to perfection complements the hearty pasta, enhancing your meal with their caramelized sweetness. Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, croutons, and a creamy dressing create a fresh and zesty contrast, elevating your dining experience to new heights. Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti, pairs perfectly, enhancing the rich flavors of the marinara and cheese. Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet cleanses the palate, leaving a refreshing finish after the indulgent main course. Indulge in these pairings for a truly memorable dining experience that celebrates the warmth of home-cooked meals! Make Ahead Options Cheesy Chicken Manicotti is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal choice for busy home cooks! You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the manicotti and create the filling as instructed, then stuff the shells and assemble the dish in the baking pan. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the wrap, pour on your marinara, and sprinkle the cheese before placing it in the oven. Baking may take a few extra minutes if it’s refrigerated, but rest assured it will be just as delicious as fresh! Enjoy the ease of a comforting meal with minimal last-minute effort! Cheesy Chicken Manicotti Variations & Substitutions Feel free to customize your Cheesy Chicken Manicotti experience with these delicious options that will tickle your taste buds! Vegetarian Delight: Substitute shredded chicken with sautéed spinach and mushrooms for a flavorful vegetarian option. You’ll still enjoy that comforting feel without the meat. Cottage Cheese Swap: Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a different texture. This change gives a delightful creaminess that complements the dish wonderfully. Spicy Cheese Twist: Swap mozzarella for Pepper Jack cheese to add a spicy kick. This variation will excite those who enjoy a little heat in their comfort food. Lighter Cheese Choice: Opt for low-fat mozzarella if you’re watching calories but don’t want to compromise on cheesiness. It melts just as beautifully, ensuring every bite is satisfying. Herbaceous Flavor Boost: Fresh basil or oregano can be included in place of dried Italian seasoning. This aromatic twist adds brightness and depth to your filling. Nutritional Yeast: Replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative that still packs a savory punch. It’s a great option for vegan meals! Extra Crunch: Top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil before baking for a crispy crust. This adds texture that contrasts nicely with the soft pasta. Creamy Sauce Upgrade: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or mascarpone into your marinara for an ultra-creamy sauce that will take your loaded pasta experience to the next level! For more delicious inspiration, try pairing your manicotti with a refreshing salad or some classic Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas for a delightful feast! How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Chicken Manicotti Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the flavors fresh and delightful, ready for you to enjoy again. Freezer: For longer storage, place the assembled but unbaked manicotti in a freezer-safe dish, covered tightly; they can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking. Reheating: To reheat, simply bake leftover manicotti in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Adding a splash of marinara sauce can prevent dryness. Flavor Enhancement: Leaving the manicotti to sit overnight in the fridge before reheating can actually enhance the delicious flavors, making your Cheesy Chicken Manicotti taste even better! Cheesy Chicken Manicotti Recipe FAQs What type of pasta is best for Cheesy Chicken Manicotti? While manicotti pasta is the traditional choice due to its shape, you can substitute it with any tubular pasta, like cannelloni or even jumbo shells. Just ensure that the pasta is sturdy enough to hold the filling without breaking. How do I store leftover Cheesy Chicken Manicotti? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep the flavors fresh and delightful, ready for you to enjoy again. You might find that the flavors develop even further overnight! Can I freeze Cheesy Chicken Manicotti? Absolutely! If you want to make ahead, prepare the manicotti but leave it unbaked. You can place it in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly, and store it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking. What should I do if my pasta shells tear while filling them? If you find that some of your manicotti shells have torn, don’t worry! Simply use those for sampling the filling or connect the pieces together before baking. The marinara sauce will help hold them together, and they will still taste delicious! Is Cheesy Chicken Manicotti suitable for dietary restrictions? Definitely! To make a vegetarian version, simply swap the shredded chicken for sautéed spinach and mushrooms. For lactose intolerance, you can replace the ricotta with cottage cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Always check labels on sauces for hidden allergens! How can I enhance the flavor of my Cheesy Chicken Manicotti? Enhancing the flavors is easier than you think! Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the filling for an aromatic boost. You can also incorporate some red pepper flakes for a little heat or use a mix of cheeses, such as Pepper Jack or gouda, for an exciting twist on the classic. Cheesy Chicken Manicotti: Your Family's New Favorite Comfort Dish Cheesy Chicken Manicotti is a delicious Italian-American dish that combines tender pasta, seasoned chicken, and creamy cheeses for a comforting family meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: Italian-AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling1 package Manicotti Pasta Use any tubular pasta if manicotti is unavailable.2 cups Shredded Cooked Chicken Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Substitute with cottage cheese for a different texture.2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Use low-fat mozzarella for a healthier option.1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Omit for a lactose-free version, or replace with nutritional yeast.For the Sauce & Seasoning2 cups Marinara Sauce Opt for homemade or any favorite brand.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be replaced with cooking spray.2 cloves Garlic Use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.2 teaspoons Dried Italian Seasoning Fresh herbs can be substituted in double the quantity.1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste.1 teaspoon Salt Taste while cooking to avoid over-salting.For Garnish1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Can be omitted or replaced with basil. Equipment large potmixing bowlbaking dishspoonpiping bagaluminum foil Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the manicotti pasta until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.Carefully fill each manicotti shell with the chicken mixture and arrange in a greased baking dish, seam-side down.Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed manicotti and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbling and golden brown.Allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg NotesThis dish connects families and creates cherished memories, making it a beloved part of family gatherings. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
