Chicken Baked Ziti
User Reviews
4.7
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Prep Time
20 mins
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Cook Time
25 mins
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Total Time
45 mins
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Servings
8 people
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Calories
460 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Italian
Chicken Baked Ziti
Description
Chicken Baked Ziti combines cubed, seasoned chicken cooked in olive oil with marinara sauce enhanced by reserved pasta water for a balanced texture. Once mixed with cooked ziti, ricotta, and chiffonade basil, the dish is topped with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan before baking. The covered bake softens the cheese and noodles, while broiling at the end adds a slightly browned cheese topping that complements the creamy interior.
The recipe provides clear steps to create a filling meal offering protein and pasta in a single dish. Serving it alongside a salad or vegetable helps round out the plate, while substitutions like Italian sausage provide flexibility in protein choices. Its make-ahead nature adds convenience for busy cooks.
Notably, the instructions include practical tips like spraying foil with non-stick spray to prevent cheese from sticking during baking. Baking times may extend if the dish is refrigerated before cooking, ensuring the casserole is heated through and cheese is bubbly. This adaptability makes it suitable for preparing meals in advance or on the day of serving.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ziti pasta cooked, reserve 1/2 cup pasta water
- 2 lb. chicken breast boneless, skinless, cubed
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 tsp. red pepper chili flakes optional
- 32 oz. marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 cup parmesan
- 1 bunch basil chiffonade
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Bring a large pot of water to boil on the stove to cook the ziti noodles according to package directions. Be sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- Meanwhile, in a nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add in the cubed chicken and seasonings and cook until the chicken is cooked all the way through. If there is any excess liquid in the pan, drain and discard it.
- Add in the marinara sauce and reserved pasta water and bring to a simmer. Then, add the chicken and sauce mixture to an oven safe glass baking dish. (4.8 quart/10x15 recommended, needs to be fairly large to fit everything!)
- Pour the cooked ziti noodles on top, followed by the ricotta and basil. Mix all of this together.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and the Parmesan. Cover with foil. (Pro tip: spray foil with non stick spray so the cheese doesn't stick to the foil). Bake for 20 minutes with the foil on, and then remove the foil and broil for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese get slightly browned and bubbly. Garnish with more basil and serve with more red sauce if desired. Enjoy!!
Notes
- This casserole can be prepared in advance by assembling and covering it with foil, then refrigerating until you are ready to bake. Adjust baking time to account for a cold dish.
- Spraying the underside of the foil with non-stick spray helps prevent the melted cheese from sticking to the foil during baking.
- Serve with a salad or cooked vegetables to add freshness and balance to the meal.
- You can replace chicken breast with Italian sausage to vary the flavor and protein.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8people
Amount Per Serving
Calories 460 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1serving | |
| Calories | 460kcal | 23% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.7
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