Indulge in the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine with this "Easy Chicken Manicotti Low Fat" recipe—a lighter twist on a classic favorite! This dish features perfectly al dente manicotti shells stuffed with a creamy mixture of shredded chicken, low-fat ricotta, mozzarella, and a hint of Parmesan, all enhanced with optional fresh spinach and a touch of garlic for added flavor. Topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, this hearty yet guilt-free meal is ready in just one hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a wholesome family dinner. With only 20 minutes of prep time, this low-fat baked pasta is proof that eating lighter doesn't mean sacrificing taste. Serve warm with a crisp salad or steamed veggies for a complete, satisfying meal!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
Cook the manicotti shells in a large pot of salted boiling water for about 6–7 minutes, or until slightly softened but still firm (al dente). Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside on a baking sheet to cool.
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, low-fat ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped spinach (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
Using a small spoon, carefully stuff each manicotti shell with the chicken and cheese filling. Be gentle to avoid tearing the shells.
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange the stuffed manicotti shells in a single layer on top of the sauce.
Pour the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are fully covered to prevent them from drying out during baking.
Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the manicotti shells.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm and enjoy your low-fat chicken manicotti!
Calories |
6562 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 135.5 g | 174% | |
| Saturated Fat | 63.1 g | 316% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 912 mg | 304% | |
| Sodium | 5012 mg | 218% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 911.1 g | 331% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 49.6 g | 177% | |
| Total Sugars | 51.8 g | ||
| Protein | 434.4 g | 869% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.5 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 3799 mg | 292% | |
| Iron | 42.4 mg | 236% | |
| Potassium | 4065 mg | 86% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.