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Before diving into the cooking process, it's essential to understand what manicotti is and how it differs from other pasta types. Manicotti originates from Southern Italy and is characterized by its large, tubular shape, making it ideal for stuffing. The name "manicotti" translates to "sleeves" in Italian, which aptly describes the way these pasta shells can be filled with a variety of ingredients.

Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Manicotti

Discover the comforting flavors of Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Manicotti, a delightful Italian dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This creamy pasta is filled with tender chicken, a blend of delicious cheeses, and a savory marinara sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Easy to prepare ahead of time and versatile with ingredient options, this meal is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy the richness of homemade cooking!
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Ingredients
  

12 manicotti shells

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)

½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1 large egg

2 cups marinara sauce (divided)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Manicotti: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the manicotti shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the shells carefully and lay them out on a clean kitchen towel to cool slightly.

    Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, ½ cup of mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, dried basil, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.

      Stuff the Manicotti: Using a piping bag fitted with a large round tip or a small spoon, carefully fill each manicotti shell with the chicken and cheese mixture. Take care not to overfill the shells to prevent them from bursting during baking.

        Arrange in Baking Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Lay the stuffed manicotti in a single layer atop the sauce. Once all the shells are arranged, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, ensuring the shells are well coated.

          Top with Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the manicotti for a delightful cheesy crust.

            Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help the noodles cook through. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

              Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, for a burst of color and flavor, and serve warm.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 min | 1 hr | 6 servings