If you’re searching for a dish that beautifully combines comfort food with a touch of Italian flair, look no further than Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti. This hearty casserole brims with tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese all nestled within perfectly cooked ziti pasta. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as the cheese melts and the flavors meld together, creating a dish that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly delicious. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti recipe is simple to follow and delivers impressive results every time.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti has become a favorite among home cooks for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile; you can easily adapt it based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Second, it’s a one-dish meal that simplifies cleanup, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones. And lastly, it’s a crowd-pleaser! The combination of crunchy, breaded chicken, savory marinara, and melty cheese is simply irresistible.

The Ingredient Lineup

To create this delicious Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti, gather the following ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken tenders
Kosher salt (to taste)
Ground black pepper (to taste)
1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg (+ 1 tablespoon water)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (½ stick)
1 pound dry ziti pasta (1 box*)
24 ounces marinara sauce (1 jar)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before we dive into the cooking process, make sure you have the following tools handy:

Large pot – for boiling the ziti pasta
Skillet – to cook the chicken
Mixing bowls – for breading the chicken and mixing ingredients
Casserole dish – for baking the ziti
Whisk – for beating the egg mixture
Meat thermometer – to ensure chicken is cooked through

Cooking Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti: The Process

Creating this Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the chicken tenders with kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste. Set aside.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

In three separate bowls, set up your breading station. Place the flour in one bowl, whisk the egg and water together in the second, and combine the Italian breadcrumbs and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese in the third.

Take each chicken tender, dredge it in the flour, dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each piece is well-coated for that delicious crunch.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the breaded chicken tenders. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once cooked, remove from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Boil the Ziti

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the dry ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, marinara sauce, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until well mixed.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

In a greased casserole dish, spread half of the ziti mixture on the bottom. Layer the cooked chicken tenders on top, followed by the remaining ziti mixture. Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and the final ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the assembled Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and enjoy your delightful Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti!

If You’re Out Of…

No worries if you find yourself missing an ingredient! Here are some substitutes you can use:

Italian breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning for a similar texture and flavor.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can be used as alternatives.
Dry ziti pasta: Penne or rigatoni works well if you’re out of ziti.
Marinara sauce: Any tomato-based pasta sauce will do in a pinch.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

While making Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti is straightforward, here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

Overcooking the chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. This ensures juicy chicken rather than dry, overcooked pieces.
Sticky pasta: Make sure to stir the ziti occasionally while boiling to prevent sticking together.
Too much sauce: Balance is key! Using too much marinara can make the dish soupy. Stick to the recommended amount.
Burnt cheese: If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil until it’s cooked through.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

This Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti is perfect for meal prep and leftovers.

To store, simply cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

If you want to freeze it, cover the assembled (but uncooked) casserole tightly with foil, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.

To reheat, simply pop individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through.

Reader Q&A

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as provolone, gouda, or even a sprinkle of feta for a unique twist.

Is there a vegetarian option for this baked ziti?

Yes! You can replace the chicken with roasted vegetables or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version of this recipe.

How do I make this dish spicier?

If you enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or mix in some diced jalapeños with the ziti.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the tips, techniques, and ingredients at your fingertips, it’s time to dive into the kitchen and whip up this delightful Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti. With its layers of flavor and satisfying textures, it’s bound to become a new favorite in your household.

Your family and friends will rave about this comforting classic that’s perfect for any occasion. So, preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and prepare for a meal that warms the heart and fills the belly. Happy cooking!