Lunch: Chicken Manicotti Alfredo

Recipe by Jeff Ellison A very rich Italian pasta dish. Bottled Alfredo sauce can be used to speed preparation, if desired.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Chicken Breast, Basil

Health benefits of Chicken Manicotti Alfredo

Skinless chicken breast, often heralded for its lean nutritional profile, is undeniably a powerhouse when it comes to protein content. With an impressive 21 grams of protein packed into every 100 grams of the breast, it emerges as a preferred choice for those conscious about their protein intake. Delving deeper into the nutritional matrix of chicken, one can't overlook the copious amounts of vitamin B6 it houses. This particular vitamin plays an indispensable role in our body, especially when discussing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) management.

For individuals grappling with PCOS, the internal hormonal turbulence can be overwhelming, often leading to a spike in testosterone and androgen levels. This is where vitamin B6 comes into the spotlight. Acting as a balancer, vitamin B6 diligently works behind the scenes to keep these hormones in check, ensuring they don't surge beyond desirable levels. It is this equilibrium that becomes paramount for those earnestly looking to curtail the excessive flow of testosterone and androgen. In the broader spectrum of PCOS management, incorporating foods rich in vitamin B6, like chicken breast, can be a strategic move, providing both nutritional sustenance and hormonal balance.

Ingredients

3 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
1/2 cup distilled white vinegar
1 cup olive oil
1 clove crushed garlic
1 (12 ounce) package manicotti pasta
6 tablespoons butter
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1 pint part-skim ricotta cheese
1 egg
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
1 tablespoon chopped fresh marjoram
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

In a large resealable plastic bag, marinate chicken with vinegar, olive oil, and garlic for at least 30 minutes. Saute in a little olive oil until done. Set aside.
Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling water until al dente. Drain, and set aside.
Meanwhile, melt butter or margarine in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Add heavy cream, salt, nutmeg, and ground black pepper, and stir until sauce thickens. Reduce heat to low. Add grated Parmesan cheese, and stir until the cheese melts. Set Alfredo sauce aside.
In a large bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, egg, oregano, marjoram, and basil. Mix in cooked chicken.
Stuff cooked manicotti shells with chicken and ricotta mixture. Cover the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish with half of the Alfredo sauce. Place stuffed shells on top of sauce. Pour remaining sauce over shells. Top with one cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover with aluminum foil.
Bake at 350 degree F (175 degree C) oven for 45 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.