Introduction
Looking for a dinner that’s creamy, comforting, and full of flavor? Chicken Manicotti Alfredo is just what you need! This dish takes classic manicotti and fills it with a creamy chicken and ricotta filling, all topped off with a rich Alfredo sauce. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or when you just want to indulge in something extra comforting. Plus, it’s simple to make and doesn’t take hours of prep. Ready to dive into this deliciousness? Let’s get started!
Detailed Ingredients 🛒🍗🍝
- 16 ounces thinly sliced chicken breast 🍗
- 1 cup olive oil 🫒
- ½ cup white wine vinegar 🍷
- 1 medium garlic clove, crushed 🧄
- 12 ounces manicotti noodles 🍝
- 6 tablespoons salted butter 🧈
- 2 cups heavy cream 🥛
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 🌶️
- ¼ teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1½ cups grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 16 ounces part-skim ricotta cheese 🧀
- 1 large egg 🍳
- 1½ tablespoons chopped fresh oregano 🌿
- 1½ tablespoons chopped fresh basil 🌿
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
Direction
- In a large zip bag, combine the chicken, white wine vinegar, olive oil, and crushed garlic. Seal the bag and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat a skillet with a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook on both sides until it’s cooked through. Once done, set aside to cool, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the manicotti noodles until they are al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the heavy cream, pepper, and salt, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Lower the heat, and add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese has melted. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, oregano, and basil. Stir in the chopped chicken.
- Spread half of the Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Stuff the manicotti shells with the ricotta and chicken mixture, and arrange them in the baking dish. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the shells.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and remaining grated Parmesan on top.
- Cover the baking pan with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let the dish stand for at least 10 minutes before serving.
My Story
I’m all about making comforting, crowd-pleasing meals that feel like a little luxury without the fuss. Chicken Manicotti Alfredo quickly became one of my go-to dishes when I wanted something hearty and indulgent but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The combination of creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy ricotta is absolute perfection. I first tried this recipe during a family dinner and was blown away by how quickly it became a favorite. It’s always a hit with both kids and adults, and I love how easy it is to make—a simple marinating process, some layering, and popping it in the oven. If you’re craving comfort food, this one’s a winner every time!
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes! While manicotti is traditional, you could also use large shells if you can’t find manicotti.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the dish ahead of time, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Q: Can I substitute the chicken with something else?
A: Yes! You can substitute the chicken with ground turkey, beef, or even a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms.
Q: Is there a lighter version of this recipe?
A: You can use lower-fat ricotta and mozzarella and opt for half-and-half instead of heavy cream to make it a bit lighter.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, this dish freezes really well. Just let it cool completely, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake it directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Suggestion
- Add some veggies like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the ricotta mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Top with fresh basil before serving for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Serve with a simple side salad and garlic bread to round out the meal.
- Add a little crushed red pepper to the Alfredo sauce if you like a bit of heat.
- Use a mix of cheeses, like provolone or Asiago, for a different twist on the classic cheese blend.
Conclusion
This Chicken Manicotti Alfredo is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and hearty, all in one dish. Whether you’re cooking for your family or serving a crowd, it’s guaranteed to impress. The tender manicotti, savory chicken, and rich Alfredo sauce all come together in a way that’s pure comfort food magic. It’s a meal that feels indulgent without being overly complicated—just marinate, stuff, bake, and enjoy. And the best part? It’s versatile enough to suit any tastes or dietary needs, whether you’re substituting the chicken or adding your favorite veggies. Try it once, and it’ll quickly become a regular in your dinner rotation. You won’t be disappointed!
—Sarah Cooper
