Baked Ziti with Chicken That’s Shockingly Easy to Make

Nothing beats the comfort of a warm, cheesy baked ziti with chicken fresh from the oven. If you love easy pasta bakes that bring big flavors with minimal effort, this recipe is for you! Picture tender chicken, perfectly cooked ziti, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce, all baked to perfection under a gooey layer of melted mozzarella.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping for a cozy weeknight meal, or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish, this oven-baked pasta checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s versatile—use rotisserie chicken for extra convenience or swap in your favorite cheese blend for a unique twist.

Ready to whip up a dish that’s both shockingly easy and irresistibly delicious? Let’s get started!

Key Benefits of Baked Ziti with Chicken

If you’re looking for a go-to dinner that’s both comforting and effortless, this baked ziti with chicken is a game-changer. It’s more than just an easy pasta bake—it’s a dish packed with flavor, versatility, and convenience. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor – Made with pantry staples like ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and melty cheese, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality taste without the hassle.

Perfect for Busy Weeknights – Whether you’re using rotisserie chicken for speed or cooking fresh boneless chicken breast, this dish comes together quickly and bakes hands-free.

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food – Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with Italian flavors, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike. Great for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep!

Easily Customizable – Swap in whole wheat pasta, use different cheeses, or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for a personalized touch.

Make-Ahead & Freezer-Friendly – Prepare it in advance, store it in the fridge or freezer, and bake when needed—perfect for busy schedules.

With these benefits in mind, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to bring this delicious dish to life!

Ingredients for Baked Ziti with Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this cheesy baked ziti with chicken a success. You’ll need a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create that rich, comforting flavor.

Main Ingredients:

Ziti pasta (12 oz) – The perfect shape for holding onto the sauce and cheese. Penne or rigatoni work well as substitutes.
Cooked chicken (2 cups, shredded or diced) – Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook and dice boneless chicken breast for a homemade touch.
Marinara sauce (3 cups) – A good-quality store-bought sauce works, or make your own for a fresher taste.
Ricotta cheese (1 cup) – Adds a creamy texture and balances the tanginess of the tomato sauce.
Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded) – For that irresistible melted, gooey top layer.
Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated) – Brings a rich, nutty flavor to the dish.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Enhances the savory depth of the sauce.
Olive oil (1 tbsp) – Used for sautéing and adding a subtle richness.
Italian seasoning (1 tsp) – A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme for classic Italian flavors.
Salt & black pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning every layer of the dish.

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:

Red pepper flakes – Adds a little heat for those who love a spicy kick.
Spinach or mushrooms – Boosts the nutritional value and blends seamlessly into the sauce.
Heavy cream (¼ cup) – For an extra creamy, indulgent texture.

With these ingredients prepped and ready, let’s move on to assembling this easy pasta bake for the best results!

How to Make Baked Ziti with Chicken

Making Baked Ziti with Chicken is simple, and the best part is that it’s the perfect combination of comfort and flavor. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready in no time!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cooking the chicken. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. For the best results, heat a little olive oil in a pan over medium heat, and season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other spices you prefer, like garlic powder or Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Slice it into bite-sized chunks or strips, depending on your preference.

Step 2: Boil the Ziti

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt to the water to season the pasta. Once the water is boiling, add the ziti and cook it for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. This ensures the pasta doesn’t get too soft during baking. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same pan you cooked the chicken in, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté garlic for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Then, pour in your marinara sauce (or a homemade tomato sauce if you prefer), and stir to combine. If you like a creamy twist, add ricotta cheese or a dollop of cream cheese into the sauce for richness. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors together.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the boiled pasta, chicken chunks, and sauce. Toss everything together until well-coated. Then, transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish (9×13 inch works great).

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake

Top your pasta mixture with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for that cheesy, golden finish. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned on top.

Step 6: Let It Rest and Serve

Once your baked ziti with chicken is out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes to set before serving. This makes it easier to slice and ensures all the cheesy goodness stays intact.

By following these simple steps, you’ll have a perfect baked ziti with chicken that’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy!

Pro Tips and Variations

This baked ziti with chicken is easy to make, but there are plenty of ways to enhance the recipe and make it your own. Here are some helpful tips and creative variations to take your dish to the next level:

1. Switch Up the Protein

While chicken is delicious in this recipe, you can swap it for other proteins depending on your preference:

• Ground beef or turkey: Brown the ground meat and mix it into your sauce for a richer, more filling dish.
• Italian sausage: For an extra burst of flavor, try crumbling mild or spicy sausage into the sauce.
• Grilled shrimp: If you want a lighter option, shrimp adds a fantastic flavor that pairs perfectly with the tomato sauce.

2. Add Extra Vegetables

Vegetables not only boost the nutritional value of this dish but also add color and texture:

• Spinach or kale: Stir in fresh spinach or kale as the sauce simmers, and it will add a delicious earthy taste.
• Mushrooms and zucchini: These vegetables absorb the sauce beautifully and can be sautéed before mixing them into your ziti.
• Bell peppers: Sweet bell peppers add a pop of color and a subtle sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the dish.

3. Get Creative with Cheeses

Cheese makes baked ziti incredibly indulgent. Consider mixing different types of cheese to enhance the flavor:

• Ricotta: For a creamy and rich texture, blend some ricotta cheese into your dish.
• Parmesan: Top your ziti with freshly grated parmesan for an extra hit of saltiness and depth of flavor.
• Provolone or fontina: If you enjoy a sharper cheese, provolone or fontina can add a savory twist that complements the mozzarella.

4. Lighter Alternatives

If you’re looking to reduce the calories but still keep it satisfying, there are some simple swaps:

• Choose whole wheat ziti or another type of pasta for more fiber and nutrients.
• Use low-fat mozzarella or reduced-fat ricotta for a lighter version without sacrificing taste.
• Opt for a low-sugar marinara sauce or make your own with fresh tomatoes to control the ingredients.

5. Spice It Up

For those who love a little kick, there are plenty of ways to add heat to your baked ziti:

• Red pepper flakes: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a spicy bite throughout the dish.
• Cayenne pepper: A pinch of cayenne can add a smoky, spicy edge that elevates the flavor profile.
• Chopped fresh basil: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can add depth to the sauce and bring out the dish’s natural flavors.

6. Make Ahead or Freeze

This dish is perfect for meal prepping or making ahead of time. Here’s how:

• Prepare the ziti up to the point of baking, then cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven and bake.
• You can freeze the entire dish after it’s assembled. Once it’s cooled, cover it tightly in foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.

Baked Ziti with Chicken – Recipe Recap

Sarah

This comforting Baked Ziti with Chicken combines tender chicken, savory marinara sauce, ziti pasta, and melted cheese for a deliciously satisfying meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Main Dish

Cuisine Italian

Servings 5 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients:

• Ziti pasta 12 oz
• Cooked chicken 2 cups, shredded or diced
• Marinara sauce 3 cups
• Ricotta cheese 1 cup
• Mozzarella cheese 2 cups, shredded
• Parmesan cheese ½ cup, grated
• Garlic 2 cloves, minced
• Olive oil 1 tbsp
• Italian seasoning 1 tsp
• Salt & black pepper to taste

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Start by cooking the chicken. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. For the best results, heat a little olive oil in a pan over medium heat, and season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other spices you prefer, like garlic powder or Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
• Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Slice it into bite-sized chunks or strips, depending on your preference.

Step 2: Boil the Ziti

• While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt to the water to season the pasta. Once the water is boiling, add the ziti and cook it for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. This ensures the pasta doesn’t get too soft during baking. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

• In the same pan you cooked the chicken in, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté garlic for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Then, pour in your marinara sauce (or a homemade tomato sauce if you prefer), and stir to combine. If you like a creamy twist, add ricotta cheese or a dollop of cream cheese into the sauce for richness. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors together.

Step 4: Combine Everything

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the boiled pasta, chicken chunks, and sauce. Toss everything together until well-coated. Then, transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish (9×13 inch works great).

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake

• Top your pasta mixture with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for that cheesy, golden finish. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned on top.

Step 6: Let It Rest and Serve

• Once your baked ziti with chicken is out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes to set before serving. This makes it easier to slice and ensures all the cheesy goodness stays intact.

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 28g
• Carbs: 42g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium

Keyword Baked Ziti with Chicken, Chicken Pasta, Easy Baked Ziti

Serving Suggestions

Now that your baked ziti with chicken is fresh out of the oven, it’s time to think about how to serve it up! This dish is hearty, flavorful, and versatile, so here are a few ways to make your meal even more enjoyable:

1. Pair with a Crisp Salad

The rich, cheesy goodness of baked ziti pairs beautifully with a light and refreshing salad. Try serving it with:

• Caesar salad: The creamy dressing and crispy croutons complement the flavors of the ziti.
• Mixed greens: Toss together some baby spinach, arugula, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a simple yet satisfying option.
• Caprese salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil bring a light, refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty pasta.

2. Serve with Garlic Bread

Nothing goes better with pasta than a generous slice of warm garlic bread. The crunchiness of the bread and the buttery garlic flavor make each bite even more delicious. You can make it yourself or grab a loaf from the store to keep things easy.

3. Add a Side of Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables are a great way to balance the richness of the ziti. Try pairing your dish with:

• Roasted broccoli: The slight char from roasting adds depth of flavor that complements the pasta.
• Roasted carrots or sweet potatoes: These naturally sweet veggies provide a lovely contrast to the savory dish.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, adding a perfect bite to your meal.

4. Top with Fresh Herbs

After serving, sprinkle fresh herbs on top for an extra burst of flavor and color. Fresh basil, parsley, or oregano can elevate the dish, adding a hint of freshness and aromatic appeal.

5. Perfect for Leftovers

The beauty of baked ziti is that it tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and when you’re ready to eat, simply reheat and enjoy. You can also freeze any extra portions and have a comforting meal ready whenever you need it.

With these serving suggestions, you can turn your baked ziti with chicken into a complete meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special gathering, these sides and add-ons will make it even more memorable!

Conclusion

There you have it—baked ziti with chicken, a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting friends, or just craving a comforting meal, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s flavorful, filling, and incredibly easy to make!

The creamy cheese, tender chicken, and hearty pasta come together in a dish that’s not only delicious but also customizable. From choosing your favorite sauce to adding veggies or spices, you can make this dish truly your own. And with the serving suggestions we’ve covered, you’ll have plenty of options to round out the meal and elevate your dining experience.

So, next time you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner or just want a comforting, no-fuss meal, baked ziti with chicken is the perfect choice. Don’t forget to experiment with different variations, and most importantly—enjoy the process!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Baked Ziti with Chicken

We know you might have a few questions about making this delicious baked ziti with chicken, so we’ve put together answers to some of the most common queries. Whether you’re looking to customize the recipe or plan ahead, these tips should help!