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Chicken Baked Ziti
4.7 from 109 votes

Chicken Baked Ziti

Chicken Baked Ziti blends cooked ziti pasta and tender chicken breast tossed in a seasoned marinara sauce with creamy ricotta and fresh basil. The mixture is topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, then baked to meld the flavors and create a bubbly, golden crust. This hearty casserole brings together Italian seasonings and layered cheeses for a satisfying comfort meal ideal for family dinners or meal prepping ahead.

Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
25 mins
Total Time
45 mins
Servings: 8 people
Calories: 460 kcal
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

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

    Cup of Yum
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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!)
  4. Pour the cooked ziti noodles on top, followed by the ricotta and basil. Mix all of this together.
  5. 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

Serving 1serving Calories 460kcal (23%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 8 people

Amount Per Serving

Calories 460

% Daily Value*

Serving 1serving
Calories 460kcal 23%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.