Saucy Chicken Manicotti
Creamy chicken manicotti features tender pasta shells filled with a savory cheese and chicken mixture, topped with cheese sauce and baked to perfection—ideal for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook manicotti shells in boiling water for 15 to 20 minutes until tender.
- Combine water and instant minced onions; let sit for 5 minutes.
- Mix cream cheese and sour cream together until smooth.
- Add the soaked onions, drained mushrooms, parsley, salt, and pepper to the cream cheese mixture.
- Fold in cooked, cubed chicken.
- Stuff the cooked shells with the chicken and cheese mixture.
- Prepare cheese sauce mix according to package instructions and pour over the stuffed shells.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a splash of milk to the cream cheese mixture. If you want a lighter version, swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with sautéed spinach and ricotta. Prepare the cheese sauce mix well to avoid lumps, ensuring it coats the manicotti evenly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Saucy Chicken Manicotti with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Pair it with a light white wine to enhance the flavors, or enjoy it alongside a dish like Parmesan Chicken for a delightful Italian-inspired dinner. Fresh basil or a sprinkle of extra parsley can brighten the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the manicotti in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saucy Chicken Manicotti contains roughly 561 calories, with 17g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (40% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1601mg per serving (70% 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 the manicotti ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the manicotti and cover them tightly before baking. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow them to come to room temperature before placing them in the oven, or adjust the baking time if they are still cold.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for an alternative to cream cheese, mascarpone or a soft goat cheese can work well. For a dairy-free option, use a vegan cream cheese or blended silken tofu, which provides a similar texture while keeping the dish creamy.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your Saucy Chicken Manicotti, consider mixing in crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the chicken filling. You can also sprinkle some spicy cheese on top before baking, or serve with a spicy marinara sauce on the side for an extra kick.
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).