Chicken Cannelloni is a rich and comforting Italian dish that features tender cannelloni pasta tubes filled with a savory mixture of shredded chicken, ricotta, and spinach, all baked in a luscious tomato or béchamel sauce. This dish combines creamy, cheesy goodness with flavorful, hearty ingredients, making it perfect for special family dinners or a weekend treat. The balance of creamy filling and the slightly crisp baked pasta creates an indulgent yet comforting meal that’s sure to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients
- 12 cannelloni tubes (or lasagna sheets if cannelloni is unavailable)
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cooked spinach, squeezed and chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara or béchamel sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Cook the cannelloni: Cook the cannelloni tubes according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. If using lasagna sheets, cook them and cut into pieces to roll around the filling.
- Stuff the cannelloni: Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each cannelloni tube with the chicken and ricotta mixture. Place the filled tubes in the greased baking dish.
- Add the sauce: Pour the marinara or béchamel sauce over the filled cannelloni, covering them completely. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
This Chicken Cannelloni is a creamy, savory dish that’s perfect for an indulgent dinner, combining tender pasta, flavorful chicken, and a rich sauce for a comforting Italian meal.
