Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Manicotti

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy pasta dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to make, this Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Manicotti recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender manicotti shells filled with a luscious mix of shredded chicken, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, all smothered in a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy weeknight dinner or to impress guests with minimal effort. This recipe combines the creamy goodness of classic Alfredo with the satisfying texture of baked pasta, creating a meal that’s both hearty and elegant. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting out, you’ll love how easy it is to master this dish.

Why I Love This Recipe

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Manicotti has a special place in my heart for several reasons. First, it’s a brilliant way to elevate a basic pasta dinner into something extraordinary without hours in the kitchen. The creamy filling, packed with cheeses and savory chicken, feels indulgent but is balanced by the subtle Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can swap the chicken for your favorite protein or add in veggies to customize it. The presentation is stunning—a tray of golden, bubbling manicotti shells garnished with fresh parsley is as inviting as it gets. It’s also a crowd-pleaser that reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep. If you adore dishes like Pesto Chicken Mozzarella Stuffed Shells or creamy pasta bakes, this recipe will be your new go-to comfort food.

Gather These Ingredients

• 12 manicotti shells
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or poached work great)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (a mix of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Setup & Equipment

• Large pot – for boiling manicotti shells
• Colander – to drain pasta
• Mixing bowl – to combine filling ingredients
• Baking dish (9×13 inches recommended) – to assemble and bake the manicotti
• Aluminum foil – to cover the dish while baking
• Spoon or piping bag – to stuff the manicotti shells easily
• Knife and cutting board – for shredding chicken and chopping parsley

Mastering Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Manicotti: How-To

Step 1: Cook the Manicotti Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the manicotti shells according to package instructions, usually about 7 to 9 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Once cooked, drain the shells and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside on a lightly oiled surface to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Drizzle in the olive oil and mix everything thoroughly until you have a creamy, well-blended filling.

Step 3: Stuff the Manicotti

Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each manicotti shell with the chicken and cheese mixture. Take your time to avoid breaking the shells. Place each stuffed shell seam side down in the baking dish.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Pour 1 cup of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of the baking dish to prevent sticking. Arrange the stuffed manicotti shells evenly, then pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the top, making sure each shell is generously coated.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown slightly and the sauce to bubble.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Manicotti while warm!

Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas

• Spring: Add sautéed asparagus or peas to the filling for a fresh, seasonal twist.
• Summer: Serve with a crisp green salad and chilled white wine to balance the richness.
• Fall: Stir in roasted butternut squash or mushrooms to add earthiness and warmth.
• Winter: Pair with a hearty garlic bread and a comforting bowl of soup for a cozy meal.

Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary

• Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as provolone or fontina for unique flavor profiles.
• Sauce Tips: Homemade Alfredo sauce can be made with butter, cream, garlic, and parmesan for a fresh taste, or use a quality store-bought version for convenience.
• Chicken Prep: Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor, but grilled or baked chicken works just as well.
• Cooking Pasta: Undercook the manicotti slightly to avoid mushy shells after baking.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish a day ahead and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Manicotti is an excellent candidate for freezing. Assemble the dish fully but do not bake. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes if baking from frozen. This makes it a perfect meal prep option or for busy weeknights.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use fresh pasta shells instead of dried manicotti?

Yes, fresh pasta shells work beautifully and often require less cooking time. Just be gentle when stuffing to avoid tearing, and adjust baking time accordingly as fresh pasta cooks faster.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese if I can’t find it?

Cottage cheese blended until smooth is a great substitute for ricotta. You can also use cream cheese mixed with a little milk or yogurt to achieve a similar texture.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Omit the chicken and increase the amount of cheese or add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. For a delicious vegetarian option, check out this Creamy Spinach Ricotta Manicotti recipe.

How do I prevent the manicotti shells from breaking while stuffing?

Make sure the shells are cooked al dente and cooled before stuffing. Use a piping bag or a small spoon to gently fill each shell without overfilling. Handling with care is key to keeping them intact.

Reader Favorites

• Pesto Chicken Mozzarella Stuffed Shells – A flavorful twist on stuffed pasta with pesto and melty mozzarella.
• Creamy Spinach Ricotta Manicotti – A vegetarian delight packed with fresh spinach and creamy ricotta.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the tips, tricks, and steps for making the ultimate Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Manicotti, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. This dish is guaranteed to become a staple in your dinner rotation, impressing family and friends with its creamy, cheesy goodness and comforting flavors. Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process and sharing delicious food with those you love. So preheat your oven, fill those manicotti shells, and get ready to indulge in one of the most satisfying pasta dishes you’ll ever make. Happy cooking!

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