Chicken Manicotti(Entree)
Creamy chicken manicotti features tender pasta shells filled with a flavorful mixture of diced chicken, mushrooms, and onions, all coated in a rich mushroom soup and sour cream sauce. Topped with melted Cheddar cheese, it offers a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chicken/mushroom soup and sour cream; mix well.
- Add cooked, diced chicken to half of the mixture and mix well.
- Stuff this mixture into partially cooked manicotti shells.
- Place the stuffed shells in a baking pan.
- Bake until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding some garlic powder or Italian herbs to the chicken mixture. If you don't have manicotti shells, you can use cannelloni or even jumbo pasta shells as a substitute. For a creamier texture, try using cream cheese instead of sour cream. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can incorporate some steamed vegetables like spinach or zucchini into the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken manicotti with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Garlic bread or a light Italian pasta like Nonfat Pasta Primavera pairs beautifully with this dish. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top adds a nice touch. For a heartier meal, consider serving with a side of Chicken With Sun-Dried Tomatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken manicotti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the manicotti in a baking dish, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist, and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Manicotti(Entree) contains roughly 600 calories, with 27g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (60% of the Daily Value), protein (55% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1272mg per serving (55% 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 use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with shredded turkey, cooked ground beef, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that the meat is fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients.
How do I know when the manicotti is fully cooked?
The manicotti is fully cooked when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the shells are tender but not falling apart. If you are using pre-cooked shells, the baking time may be shorter, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Can I freeze the chicken manicotti?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed manicotti before baking. Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding extra time to ensure it heats through completely. It's best to use within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
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).