Maggiano’s Chicken and Spinach Manicotti Copycat Recipe: Creamy Cheese Filling Masterpiece

I’ve perfected a Maggiano’s-style chicken and spinach manicotti recipe that’s sure to impress. This creamy dish features tender pasta tubes filled with a rich chicken and spinach mixture, all wrapped in a velvety cheese sauce.

With this copycat recipe, you’ll be able to recreate the magic of Maggiano’s in the comfort of your own kitchen, using simple ingredients and straightforward instructions to achieve restaurant-quality results.

Ingredients for Maggiano’s Chicken and Spinach Manicotti Copycat

Gather these premium ingredients to create a Maggiano’s-style manicotti that’s both creamy and satisfying.

The chicken matters here. Costco or Whole Foods often have pre-cooked chicken that saves time. Fresh spinach is ideal—farmer’s markets have the best bunches. For ricotta, full-fat is essential for that creamy texture. Don’t skimp on the Parmesan either—grate it yourself from a wedge for the best flavor.

No fresh spinach? Frozen works in a pinch—just thaw and squeeze dry. For the cheese sauce, Rao’s marinara is a solid jarred choice if you’re short on time. Want to make your own marinara? San Marzano tomatoes are worth the splurge. The heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half for a slightly lighter version.

This dish reheats beautifully—keeps for 3-4 days in the fridge. Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. The cheese sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for 2 days before assembling the manicotti.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Maggiano’s Chicken and Spinach Manicotti Copycat

Follow these detailed steps to create a creamy, restaurant-quality manicotti dish at home.

Step 1: Prepare the Filling Mixture

Start by combining the 1.5 cups Ricotta Cheese, 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, 1 whole Egg, 1 tsp Italian Seasoning, 1 tsp Salt, and 0.5 tsp Black Pepper in a mixing bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps. I like to use a stand mixer for this step to achieve the perfect consistency.

Next, add the 1.5 lb Chicken Breast and 2 cups Fresh Spinach to the cheese mixture. Mix until well combined, making sure the chicken and spinach are evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture. The filling should be thick enough to hold its shape when stuffed into the pasta tubes.

Step 2: Cook the Manicotti Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the 12 pieces Manicotti Pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Be careful not to overcook, as the pasta will continue to cook slightly when baked. Drain and set aside on a clean surface to cool slightly.

It’s essential to handle the cooked pasta gently to prevent it from breaking. I find that laying the tubes on a lightly oiled surface helps prevent them from sticking together.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the 1 whole Onion and 3 cloves Garlic Cloves and sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes. This step enhances the overall flavor of the dish, adding a depth that complements the creamy filling.

Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly become bitter. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and to prevent any burning.

Step 4: Assemble the Manicotti

Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large baking dish, spread a layer of Marinara Sauce on the bottom. Stuff each cooked manicotti tube with the chicken and cheese filling, placing them in the baking dish as you go. Once all tubes are filled and in the dish, pour the remaining 2 cups Marinara Sauce over the top.

To finish, sprinkle the 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese evenly over the sauce. The cheese will melt and bubble during baking, creating a golden, creamy top.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. To add an extra layer of creaminess, drizzle the 1 cup Heavy Cream over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. The result should be a creamy, cheesy manicotti dish that rivals the original Maggiano’s recipe.

Dietary Considerations for This Dish

Making It Gluten-Free

To make this Maggiano’s copycat recipe gluten-free, start by substituting the traditional manicotti pasta with gluten-free manicotti made from rice or corn. Be sure to cook according to package instructions as gluten-free pasta can vary in cooking time. I recommend checking for doneness frequently to avoid overcooking.

Dairy-Free Modifications

For a dairy-free version, replace the ricotta cheese with a cashew-based ricotta alternative or tofu ricotta. Use dairy-free mozzarella shreds and nutritional yeast to replicate the cheesy flavor. The heavy cream can be substituted with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Be aware that these substitutions may slightly alter the flavor profile.

Low-Carb Adaptations

To reduce the carb content, consider using zucchini noodles or portobello mushroom caps as a substitute for the manicotti pasta. For the filling, maintain the chicken and spinach but be mindful of the cheese quantities. You can also add extra protein like turkey or beef to make it more satisfying while keeping it low-carb.

Keto-Friendly Adjustments

For a keto version, focus on the filling and cheese sauce. Use full-fat dairy products and be cautious with the marinara sauce, choosing one that’s sugar-free. The manicotti pasta can be replaced with zucchini or eggplant slices, which can be stuffed and baked. Keep an eye on portion sizes to maintain keto macros.

Additional Dietary Tips

To make this dish more heart-friendly, consider using low-fat dairy options and adding more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to increase the nutrient density. For those watching sodium, use low-sodium marinara sauce and be mindful of the salt added during preparation. Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go to ensure the best flavor. 🌿

Frequently Asked Questions