Name: Parmesan Chicken Manicotti
Prep time: 8 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 43 min
Ingredients: 14 pieces Manicotti (cooked according to package instructions.); 2 cups Ricotta cheese (skim.); 1 cup Parmesan cheese (shredded.); 1 cup Shredded chicken; 2 eggs Eggs; 2 tsp Oregano; 1 can Crushed tomatoes; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 4-5 tbsp Parmesan cheese (grated.); 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese; to taste Salt and pepper

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When I think of comfort food, Parmesan Chicken Manicotti instantly comes to mind. It’s not just a dish; it’s a warm embrace after a long day, a family gathering at the dining table, or a cozy night in with a movie. The first time I prepared it, I was thrilled by how simple yet satisfying it was. The creamy filling, enveloped in tender pasta and smothered in rich tomato sauce, made my taste buds dance with joy. Each bite transports me to a rustic Italian kitchen where love is the secret ingredient. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress. I can still hear my family’s laughter as they rave about it over doughy breadsticks and vibrant salad. To me, Parmesan Chicken Manicotti isn’t just food; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
43 mins

Prep Time:
8 mins

Cook Time:
35 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Grater, Saucepan, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl

What Sets This Parmesan Chicken Manicotti Apart

It’s a Crowd-Pleaser

What I adore most about Parmesan Chicken Manicotti is its ability to bring people together. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, this dish serves as the centerpiece that sparks joy and conversation. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a dish that appeals to all ages, ensuring no one leaves the table hungry.

Comforting and Satisfying

When the temperatures drop, there’s nothing better than diving into a plate of Parmesan Chicken Manicotti. The creamy filling, made with ricotta cheese and chicken, wrapped in tender manicotti shells, is downright indulgent. It warms you from the inside out, making it the ultimate comfort food.

Easy to Prepare

This dish may seem fancy, but I promise, it’s incredibly easy to whip up. With just a few steps, you can have a beautiful meal ready to go. Perfect for weeknights when you’re short on time but still want to impress. The methodical process of stuffing the manicotti can be therapeutic, and before you know it, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to bake.

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

One thing that makes Parmesan Chicken Manicotti a standout is the perfect balance of flavors. The chicken and ricotta filling is savory and creamy, while the crushed tomatoes add a touch of acidity to cut through the richness. The sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top creates a delightful golden crust that’s irresistible.

Versatile and Adaptable

What I love about this recipe is its adaptability. While the traditional version is amazing, there are so many ways to make it your own. Add your favorite vegetables to the filling or swap out the chicken for something else if you’re feeling adventurous. The possibilities are endless!

Great for Meal Prep

With busy schedules, having meals ready to go is a game changer. Parmesan Chicken Manicotti is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. It also freezes beautifully, so you can make a double batch and save some for later.

What Goes Into Parmesan Chicken Manicotti

When it comes to Parmesan Chicken Manicotti, the ingredients are simple yet harmonious, creating a delicious symphony of flavors. The key players include manicotti shells filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, shredded chicken, and Parmesan cheese. These elements come together beautifully, enhanced by aromatic herbs like oregano and a savory tomato sauce that ties it all together.

14 pieces Manicotti, cooked according to package instructions: These tubular pasta shells are perfect for stuffing with the rich filling, holding all the flavors inside.
2 cups Ricotta cheese, skim: The creamy base of the filling adds richness and a lovely texture that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded: This cheese not only enhances the flavor of the filling but also creates a delightful crust on top when baked.
1 cup Shredded chicken: Adding protein to the dish, the chicken brings heartiness and pairs perfectly with the creamy and cheesy filling.
2 eggs: These bind the filling together, ensuring that it holds its shape when stuffed into the pasta.
2 tsp Oregano: A classic herb that adds a fragrant, earthy flavor, elevating the overall taste of the dish.
1 can Crushed tomatoes: The sauce that envelops the manicotti, providing moisture and a burst of acidity that cuts through the creaminess.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: This blend of spices complements the other flavors, bringing a touch of warmth and depth.
4-5 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated: Sprinkled on top before baking, it adds a crispy, cheesy layer that’s irresistible.
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese: This is mixed into the filling, giving it an extra cheesy kick.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing the flavors and bringing everything together.

How to Assemble Parmesan Chicken Manicotti

Assembling Parmesan Chicken Manicotti is a rewarding process that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. With each step, you’ll see how everything comes together beautifully. Follow along and enjoy the journey of creating this fantastic dish!

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is essential as it ensures that the manicotti will bake evenly and become perfectly golden.
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be creamy and slightly thick, allowing it to fill the manicotti shells easily.
Next, take each cooked manicotti shell and carefully stuff it with about ¼ cup of the chicken mixture. Use a spoon or your fingers to press it in gently until full. This part is fun and allows you to get hands-on with the ingredients!
Once all the manicotti are filled, place them in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, lining them up neatly. It’s okay if they touch a bit; they will bake together wonderfully.
Now, for the sauce: In a saucepan over low heat, add the crushed tomatoes. Stir in the Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is heated through and simmering. This sauce will add moisture and flavor to the dish.
Pour the warm tomato sauce evenly over the manicotti, ensuring each piece is well coated. This will help keep the pasta from drying out during baking.
For the finishing touch, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese over the top of the manicotti for that golden, crispy crust. It’s the crowning glory!
Carefully place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Once done, remove from the oven and let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This short time allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve.
Serve the Parmesan Chicken Manicotti warm, garnished with fresh herbs if you like. Enjoy the smiles from your family and friends as they dig in!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking the Manicotti: Be sure to cook the manicotti according to the package instructions, but slightly al dente. They will continue cooking in the oven, absorbing flavors from the sauce.
Check for Doneness: When baking, keep an eye on the manicotti. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil to prevent burning.
Pasta Stuffing Tips: If you’re having trouble stuffing the manicotti, try using a piping bag or a plastic sandwich bag with a corner cut off. It makes the process cleaner and easier!
Flavor Enhancements: For added flavor, consider mixing in sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms into the filling. They not only boost nutrition but also add great taste.

Recipe Variations about Parmesan Chicken Manicotti

If you’re excited about making Parmesan Chicken Manicotti but want to switch things up a bit, you’re in luck! There are countless ways to customize this dish to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Vegetable Stuffed Manicotti: Consider stuffing the manicotti with a mix of sautéed vegetables like zucchini, spinach, and mushrooms. This variation is perfect for a lighter meal.
Adding More Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add more varieties to the filling, such as mozzarella cheese or even some feta cheese for a tangy twist.
Creamy Sauce: Instead of using only crushed tomatoes, mix in some heavy cream to the sauce for a richer flavor. This creates a delightful creamy tomato sauce that pairs perfectly with the manicotti.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the filling or sauce for a spicy kick.
Freezer-Friendly: Prepare a double batch and freeze half for those busy weeknights. Just assemble and freeze before baking, then bake from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking.
Gluten-Free Option: To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out the standard manicotti for gluten-free pasta shells. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Perfect Matches for Parmesan Chicken Manicotti

Pairing Parmesan Chicken Manicotti with the right sides can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some serving suggestions that complement this dish beautifully:

Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich manicotti. The crunchiness of the lettuce and the creamy dressing balance out the meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Add some roasted seasonal vegetables on the side for a colorful and healthy addition to your plate.
Steamed Broccoli: Simple and nutritious, steamed broccoli drizzled with olive oil makes a great accompaniment.
Herbed Rice: Serve this with a side of fluffy herbed rice to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.
Wine Pairing: If you enjoy wine, a chilled glass of white wine or a fruity sparkling beverage can enhance the overall dining experience.
Seasonal Occasions: This dish is perfect for cozy winter dinners or festive occasions like family gatherings and holidays.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the Parmesan Chicken Manicotti ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights. If you plan to freeze it, make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add some extra time to ensure it’s heated through.

There are plenty of delicious sides you can serve with Parmesan Chicken Manicotti. A classic choice is garlic bread, which is perfect for soaking up the sauce. A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing touch, while steamed vegetables provide a nutritious balance. You can also consider pairing it with herbed rice or a simple roasted vegetable medley for a wholesome meal.

Definitely! While the traditional recipe calls for ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese, feel free to get creative. You can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella for extra creaminess or feta for a tangy flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses can change the texture and flavor profile of the dish, so experiment to find your favorite combination!

Yes, Parmesan Chicken Manicotti is great for freezing! You can either freeze it before baking or after it’s been cooked. If freezing before baking, assemble and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Bake from frozen, adding additional time to the cooking process. If freezing cooked manicotti, let it cool completely before wrapping it up. Simply reheat in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!

Conclusion

Parmesan Chicken Manicotti is a heartwarming dish that brings together creamy flavors and tender pasta in a delightful way. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions with family and friends. I encourage you to try making this delicious dish and enjoy the smiles it brings to your loved ones’ faces. After one bite, you’ll understand why it’s become a beloved staple in my kitchen!