Are you looking to impress your dinner guests with a decadent and delicious dish that is surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than our Creamy Chicken Manicotti recipe! This delightful Italian-inspired dish is a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and comforting flavors that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. The tender manicotti shells are filled with a luscious mixture of chicken, cheese, and herbs, then topped with a rich and velvety white sauce. Let’s dive into the recipe and elevate your next meal with this mouthwatering Creamy Chicken Manicotti.
**Creamy Chicken Manicotti**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces manicotti shells
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg
– 3 cups Alfredo sauce
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. **Cook the Chicken:** In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken until it is no longer pink in the middle, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove from heat and allow it to cool. Once cooled, shred the chicken using two forks.
3. **Prepare the Manicotti:** Cook the manicotti shells according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse the shells under cold water to prevent them from sticking together.
4. **Make the Filling:** In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and egg. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
5. **Fill the Manicotti:** Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each cooked manicotti shell with the chicken and cheese mixture.
6. **Assemble the Dish:** Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange the filled manicotti shells in the dish in a single layer. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the top of the shells.
7. **Bake:** Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the filling is heated through.
8. **Serve:** Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and an extra burst of flavor.
This Creamy Chicken Manicotti recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, thanks to its blend of tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or hosting a special gathering, this dish is bound to impress. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout option for any occasion. We hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe with your loved ones!
