Chicken Manicotti
Creamy chicken manicotti filled with seasoned chicken, vegetables, and herbs, baked with cheese and salsa for a flavorful, hearty Italian-inspired dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Cook manicotti shells according to package instructions; drain.
- Mix cooked chicken, carrot, Ricotta cheese, green onion, cilantro, and garlic in a bowl.
- Fill each cooked shell with the chicken mixture.
- Place filled shells in a baking dish, spoon salsa over the top, and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using shredded rotisserie chicken and low-fat cheese. If you're short on time, you can substitute manicotti shells with cooked lasagna noodles rolled with the filling. Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor; try adding basil or oregano. For added texture, throw in some chopped spinach or mushrooms into the filling mix. This dish pairs beautifully with Italian Chicken Delight.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Manicotti with a side salad dressed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or a warm baguette complements the dish well, perfect for soaking up extra salsa. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with Minestrone Soup(No Meat) for a hearty Italian experience. A sprinkle of extra cilantro or green onions on top adds a fresh touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dish can be reheated in the microwave, but for best results, place it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, which helps maintain the texture of the cheese and pasta. You can also freeze unbaked manicotti for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Manicotti contains roughly 232 calories, with 13g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (116% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 892mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare Chicken Manicotti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Assemble it completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed. If frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
What can I substitute for Ricotta cheese?
If you don't have Ricotta cheese, cottage cheese blended until smooth makes a great substitute. You could also use cream cheese for creaminess, but be sure to adjust for flavor and texture. Greek yogurt is another option for a tangy twist while keeping it healthy.
How do I know when the Chicken Manicotti is done baking?
The Chicken Manicotti is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, usually around 25 minutes at 325°F. You can check by inserting a knife into the center; if it comes out hot and the cheese is golden, it’s ready to serve. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).