Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti

There’s something truly heartwarming about a dish like Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti. Picture a cold evening where you want nothing more than a comforting meal that not only fills your belly but also warms your soul. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, and I can still remember the first time I prepared it for my friends. The aroma of baking cheese and marinara wafting through the house set the perfect scene for a cozy gathering. It was a hit, bringing smiles and happy tummies all around the table. Every bite of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and flavorful ziti feels like a warm hug on a plate. What I love most is how easy it is to whip up this Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or when I have guests over. It’s a dish that encourages laughter and conversation, where everyone helps themselves to seconds and thirds. Each layer of ziti, chicken, and cheese just begs to be savored, and it never fails to impress.

What You’ll Need for Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for making a delectable Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti. Each component plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor and satisfaction. The combination of tender chicken, ziti pasta, and rich marinara sauce creates a wonderful balance, while the mix of cheeses adds that creamy, indulgent touch. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken tenders: This lean protein provides a hearty base for the dish.
• Kosher salt (to taste): Essential for enhancing flavors.
• Ground black pepper (to taste): Adds a subtle kick.
• ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs: For that crispy coating on the chicken.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided): This cheese adds rich, nutty flavors.
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour: Helps create a delicious crust on the chicken.
• 1 large egg (+ 1 tablespoon water): Binds the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the chicken.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (⅛ stick): Adds richness.
• 1 pound dry ziti pasta (1 box): The pasta acts as the perfect vessel for all the delicious flavors.
• 24 ounces marinara sauce (1 jar): Adds depth and moisture to the dish.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and creates that gooey texture.

Putting Together Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into assembling this delightful Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti. Each step is simple, yet the results are incredibly satisfying. Just follow along, and soon you’ll have a bubbling, cheesy dish ready to serve!

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Make sure to grease a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray and set it aside. This will help prevent sticking and make for an easier cleanup.
2. Bring a large pot of water to a rapid boil. Season it generously with salt to add flavor to the pasta while it cooks.
3. While waiting for the water to boil, season the chicken tenders with kosher salt and ground black pepper on both sides. This step ensures that the flavors are infused into the chicken.
4. On a small plate, mix together the breadcrumbs and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. On another plate, add the flour. Crack the egg into a bowl, whisk it with one tablespoon of water, and set this mixture aside.
5. Dredge each seasoned chicken tender first in the flour, then in the egg, letting any excess drip off, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Set the breaded chicken aside and repeat with all the chicken tenders.
6. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted completely, add the breaded chicken tenders. Cook until the chicken is golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
7. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and let it cool slightly. After a few minutes, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
8. While the chicken is cooking, drop the ziti into the boiling pasta water. Cook it until it’s just under al dente according to the package instructions. Don’t forget to reserve ¾ cup of the pasta water before draining the noodles!
9. Return the drained pasta to the empty pot. Add the jarred marinara sauce along with the reserved pasta water. Stir to combine until everything is well coated.
10. Begin layering your Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti: Spoon half of the ziti mixture into the bottom of the greased baking dish.
11. Top this layer with half of the diced chicken and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.
12. Cover with the remaining pasta and sauce, followed by the remaining chicken, then the rest of the mozzarella, and finally sprinkle on the remainder of the grated Parmesan cheese.
13. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake until everything is hot and bubbly, about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and golden!
14. Serve your Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti right away and enjoy the smiles on everyone’s faces as they take their first bites!

Helpful Hints

Here are some extra tips to ensure your Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti turns out perfectly.

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for a crispy finish.
• Freezing: This dish freezes beautifully. Assemble it in a baking dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. Bake from frozen, adding about 10 minutes to the cooking time.
• Pairing: Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a delightful meal. A simple green salad complements the richness of the ziti.
• Variations: Feel free to mix in some sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make-ahead: You can prepare the ziti up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just increase the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Serving Options for Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti

When it comes to serving Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti, there are plenty of delicious options to enhance your dining experience. Here are some ideas:

• Side Dishes: Pair it with a fresh garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or a crispy baguette also make excellent companions.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or casual weeknight dinners. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone can enjoy.
• Leftover Ideas: If you find yourself with leftovers, consider repurposing them into a ziti casserole by adding a layer of cheese and baking until bubbly.
• Seasonal Pairings: In the fall, a side of roasted vegetables adds seasonal flair. In the summer, a cold pasta salad can balance the warmth of the baked ziti.
• Presentation: For a restaurant-style presentation, serve the ziti in individual bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top, like basil or parsley, for a pop of color.

FAQ

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti is a delightful fusion of comfort and flavor that never fails to impress. With layers of tender chicken, rich marinara, and gooey cheese, it’s a dish that brings people together and creates lasting memories. I encourage you to try making it for your next dinner gathering; it’s sure to become a new favorite in your household!

Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti

The ultimate comfort food! Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti features tender chicken, ziti pasta, and a blend of gooey cheeses all baked together in savory marinara sauce. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 513

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound Chicken Tenders
• to taste Kosher Salt
• to taste Ground Black Pepper
• ½ cup Italian Breadcrumbs
• ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese divided
• ⅓ cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1 large Egg + 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
• 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter (⅛ stick)
• 1 pound Dry Ziti Pasta (1 box*)
• 24 ounces Marinara Sauce (1 jar)
• 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

Equipment

• 9×13-inch Baking Dish

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray and set aside.
2. Bring a large pot of water to a rapid boil. Season it generously with salt to add flavor to the pasta while it cooks.
3. While waiting for the water to boil, season the chicken tenders with kosher salt and ground black pepper on both sides.
4. On a small plate, mix together the breadcrumbs and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. On another plate, add the flour. Crack the egg into a bowl, whisk it with one tablespoon of water, and set this mixture aside.
5. Dredge each seasoned chicken tender first in the flour, then in the egg, letting any excess drip off, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
6. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted completely, add the breaded chicken tenders. Cook until the chicken is golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
7. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and let it cool slightly. After a few minutes, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
8. While the chicken is cooking, drop the ziti into the boiling pasta water. Cook it until it’s just under al dente according to the package instructions.
9. Return the drained pasta to the empty pot. Add the jarred marinara sauce along with the reserved pasta water.
10. Begin layering your Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti: Spoon half of the ziti mixture into the bottom of the greased baking dish.
11. Top this layer with half of the diced chicken and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.
12. Cover with the remaining pasta and sauce, followed by the remaining chicken, then the rest of the mozzarella, and finally sprinkle on the remainder of the grated Parmesan cheese.
13. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake until everything is hot and bubbly, about 25 to 30 minutes.
14. Serve your Chicken Parmesan Baked Ziti right away and enjoy the smiles on everyone’s faces as they take their first bites!

Notes

• Tip 1: Make sure you grease your baking dish so the ziti doesn’t stick to the bottom while baking.
• Tip 2: Reserve some pasta water after cooking the the ziti. Stirring this into the pasta bake helps thin out the marinara to the right consistency.
• Tip 3: If you want a creamier dish, layer in some ricotta too!
• Tip 4: After baking, let the ziti sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This quick rest allows the cheese and sauce to settle.

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Meet Violet Lane

The Creative Spark I see the kitchen as my art studio. I love experimenting with colors and textures, and I’m usually the one asking, “What if we added this?” I encourage the team to take risks and try new flavor combinations. I love the energy of cooking with six other people it’s chaotic, colorful, and inspiring. I’m hands-on with the cooking and styling, always trying to make our plates look as artistic as they taste.