Chicken Baked Ziti

When I think of comfort food, Chicken Baked Ziti immediately comes to mind. This dish is a staple in my kitchen, especially during the fall. The aroma of bubbling cheese and savory chicken fills the air, making it impossible to resist. I remember the first time I made it for friends during a cozy gathering. As they took their first bites, their eyes lit up with delight, and I knew I had struck culinary gold. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special family occasion. The combination of tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese creates a symphony of flavors that warms the heart. With each forkful, you get a taste of love and comfort, reminding me of family gatherings where laughter and good food flowed abundantly. This Chicken Baked Ziti is not just a recipe; it’s a heartfelt tradition that I cherish and can’t wait to share with you.

Everything You Need for Chicken Baked Ziti

When it comes to Chicken Baked Ziti, the ingredients are the heart of the dish. Each element plays a vital role in creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The combination of pasta, chicken, and cheese results in a creamy and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the essentials that make this dish truly special.

• 8 ounces dried ziti pasta, or similar shaped pasta such as rigatoni or penne: This is the backbone of the dish, providing a sturdy base that holds all the delicious flavors.
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped: The star ingredient that adds protein and a savory depth to the overall dish.
• 24 ounces marinara sauce: A rich sauce that coats the pasta and chicken, creating a delightful fusion of tastes.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: This herb brings an aromatic flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: The gooey cheese that melts beautifully, creating a delicious top layer.
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the mozzarella.
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped: A fresh touch that brightens up the dish.
• ½ to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional, or as desired: A little heat to elevate the dish’s flavor.

Cooking Method for Chicken Baked Ziti

Cooking Chicken Baked Ziti is a joyful experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. It’s straightforward and perfect for everyone, from beginner cooks to seasoned chefs. Let’s get into the steps to create this comfort food masterpiece.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×9-inch baking dish or a 2 to 2.5-quart casserole dish by spraying it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package directions until al dente. This is crucial as it will continue to cook in the oven. As the pasta cooks, take the opportunity to shred the chicken to save time. You want it ready to mix in.
3. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well. Do not rinse it, as the starch helps the marinara sauce cling to it. Return the pasta to the pot.
4. To the pot, add the shredded chicken, marinara sauce, oregano, and if you like a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and coated in the sauce.
5. Transfer half of this delicious mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly on the bottom.
6. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese over the top of this mixture. This layer creates a delightful cheesy goodness.
7. Now, pour the remaining half of the saucy pasta mixture over the cheese. This ensures that each bite is as flavorful as the last.
8. Add the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese to the top.
9. If you want to prepare this in advance, cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, allow the casserole to sit at room temperature for about 45 minutes before baking. If frozen, remember to thaw it before cooking.
10. Bake uncovered for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly on top. I recommend placing the baking dish on the middle oven rack and rotating it halfway through for even browning.
11. Storage Tip: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating leftovers, a quick 30-second zap in the microwave works wonders.

Tips and Variations

Every dish has its tricks and variations, and Chicken Baked Ziti is no exception. Here are some tips to elevate your cooking experience.

• Storage: Leftover Chicken Baked Ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Freezing: You can freeze unbaked Chicken Baked Ziti for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cover it well with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to cook, thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or fontina for a unique twist on flavor and texture.
• Herbs and Spices: Feel free to mix in additional herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant kick.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers and zucchini.

Serve This Chicken Baked Ziti With

When it comes to serving Chicken Baked Ziti, it’s all about enhancing that comforting experience. Here are some great ideas:

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, toasty garlic bread on the side for dipping into that delicious marinara sauce.
• Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the baked ziti.
• Wine Pairing: Pair with a refreshing sparkling water or a light white wine for a delightful contrast.
• Seasonal Veggies: Roasted seasonal vegetables make for a great side, providing a healthy balance to the meal.
• Occasion: This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even potluck gatherings where everyone can share in the warmth.
• Storage Tips: Leftovers can be great for lunch the next day; just pack a portion in a microwave-safe container for a quick reheat.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Chicken Baked Ziti is a delightful dish that combines creamy pasta, savory chicken, and melted cheese into one hearty meal. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. I encourage you to try making this comforting recipe; you won’t be disappointed. It’s a great way to bring family and friends together over a delicious meal that warms both the heart and the soul.

Chicken Baked Ziti

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Baked Ziti combines tender pasta, savory chicken, and gooey cheese into a delightful dish. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering, this easy weeknight dinner is sure to satisfy everyone at your table. Make it tonight and enjoy the deliciousness!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 23 minutes mins

Total Time 43 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 8 ounces dried ziti pasta or similar shaped pasta such as rigatoni or penne
• 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or chopped
• 24 ounces marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano Italian seasoning may be substituted
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese divided
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves chopped
• ½ to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, or as desired

Equipment

• 12 1/2 quart baking dish

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×9-inch baking dish or a 2 to 2.5-quart casserole dish by spraying it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package directions until al dente. This is crucial as it will continue to cook in the oven. As the pasta cooks, take the opportunity to shred the chicken to save time. You want it ready to mix in.
3. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well. Do not rinse it, as the starch helps the marinara sauce cling to it. Return the pasta to the pot.
4. To the pot, add the shredded chicken, marinara sauce, oregano, and if you like a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and coated in the sauce.
5. Transfer half of this delicious mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly on the bottom.
6. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese over the top of this mixture. This layer creates a delightful cheesy goodness.
7. Now, pour the remaining half of the saucy pasta mixture over the cheese. This ensures that each bite is as flavorful as the last.
8. Add the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese to the top.
9. If you want to prepare this in advance, cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 to 3 days. When you're ready to bake, allow the casserole to sit at room temperature for about 45 minutes before baking. If frozen, remember to thaw it before cooking.
10. Bake uncovered for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly on top. I recommend placing the baking dish on the middle oven rack and rotating it halfway through for even browning.
11. Storage Tip: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating leftovers, a quick 30-second zap in the microwave works wonders.

Notes

• Tip 1: You can either poach chicken yourself and shred it.
• Tip 2: You can buy a rotisserie chicken and shred that. Some stores even sell pre-shredded rotisserie chicken, which is even easier and faster.
• Tip 3: You can also chop leftover baked chicken breasts or whatever remains from a whole roasted chicken. It doesn’t matter if the chicken is seasoned, so long as it’s a seasoning you think will pair reasonably well with the marinara sauce and Italian herbs used in this chicken ziti bake recipe.

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Meet Simone Patel

Food is the ultimate connector, and I approach every recipe with the host in mind. I focus on creating meals that scale well for crowds and make entertaining effortless. I cooked and tested this meal to ensure it holds up beautifully from the stove to the serving platter, ready for your guests.