Name: Delicious Chicken Spicy Marinara Manicotti Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz manicotti pasta (1 box); 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella; 1/4 cup grated parmesan; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp ground black pepper; pinch of nutmeg; 1 tsp garlic powder; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 large egg, beaten; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp minced garlic; 1 tbsp onion powder (or 1/4 cup diced onion); 2 tbsp dried oregano; 1-2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust according to heat preference); 1 tsp dried basil; 24-28 oz canned crushed tomatoes; 2 tbsp white sugar; 1 tsp balsamic vinegar; 1 cup shredded mozzarella

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Chicken Spicy Marinara Manicotti has become a staple in my kitchen, offering a perfect blend of flavors and comfort. This stuffed pasta dish features tender manicotti shells filled with a mix of shredded chicken and creamy ricotta, all enveloped in a rich and spicy marinara sauce. It’s not just delicious; it’s a fantastic option for make-ahead meals, ensuring that dinner is just a quick bake away!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Spicy Marinara Manicotti

This recipe is a winner for numerous reasons:

It’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Each bite is packed with flavor, thanks to the spicy marinara sauce and seasoned chicken.
This dish is gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs.
It can be made ahead and frozen for later, perfect for meal prep.
It’s a comforting, hearty meal that the whole family will love.
With just one baking dish, cleanup is a breeze!

Not only does this dish satisfy cravings, but it also combines the nuances of Italian cuisine with a spicy twist, making it a unique addition to your dinner rotation.

Ingredients for Chicken Spicy Marinara Manicotti

Gather these items:

8 oz manicotti pasta (1 box)
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1/4 cup grated parmesan
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
pinch of nutmeg
1 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1 large egg, beaten
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp minced garlic
1 tbsp onion powder (or 1/4 cup diced onion)
2 tbsp dried oregano
1-2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust according to heat preference)
1 tsp dried basil
24-28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp white sugar
1 tsp balsamic vinegar
1 cup shredded mozzarella

How to Make Chicken Spicy Marinara Manicotti Step-by-Step

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook manicotti for 2 minutes less than package directions so the shells stay flexible. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, beaten egg, salt, pepper, nutmeg, garlic powder, and oregano until well combined. Transfer the mixture to a zip top bag or piping bag and snip the corner.
Step 3: Heat olive oil and butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic, onion powder or diced onion, oregano, red pepper flakes, and basil. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes. Add sugar and balsamic vinegar, mix well, then remove from heat.
Step 4: Spoon a small amount of sauce into the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Pipe the filling into each manicotti shell and arrange in the dish. If shells split, place seam side down. If extra pasta breaks, layer it into the dish.
Step 5: Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the manicotti. Sprinkle with the remaining shredded mozzarella.
Step 6: Cover tightly with foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. If you want to make this straight away skip the freezing and go to the next step.
Step 7: If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Remove from the fridge 30 minutes before baking. Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes covered with foil. Remove the foil and broil for 5 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Spicy Marinara Manicotti

Keep these in mind:

Adjust red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
Allow the dish to rest before serving for the best texture.
For a creamier texture, consider adding some cream cheese to the ricotta mixture.
Using fresh ingredients will enhance the dish’s flavor, especially in the marinara sauce.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Spicy Marinara Manicotti

There are many delicious ways to enjoy this dish:

Serve with garlic bread for a classic Italian experience.
Pair with a fresh salad for a light, refreshing meal.
Top with extra mozzarella and fresh basil for a gourmet touch.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Spicy Marinara Manicotti

If you have leftovers or want to prep ahead, store the manicotti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 375°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also freeze the uncooked manicotti and follow the baking instructions when ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Spicy Marinara Manicotti

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Spicy Marinara Manicotti?

The secret lies in not overcooking the manicotti noodles initially, allowing them to maintain their shape and hold the filling perfectly.

Can I make Chicken Spicy Marinara Manicotti ahead of time?

Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it and store it in the freezer until you’re ready to bake.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Spicy Marinara Manicotti?

Ensure that the shells are not overcooked, and allow the dish to rest after baking to set properly, which enhances flavor and texture.

Variations of Chicken Spicy Marinara Manicotti You Can Try

Explore these tasty twists:

Use spinach for added nutrition and flavor in your filling.
Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicier version.
Try using gluten-free manicotti shells for a gluten-free version.

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