Go Back
Baked ziti has long been celebrated as a quintessential comfort food, adored by families for its rich flavors and satisfying texture. This classic Italian-American dish typically features pasta baked with a sumptuous sauce and layered with cheese, creating a warm, gooey meal that can easily feed a crowd. But what if you could take this beloved dish and elevate it with an exciting twist? Enter the Cheesy BBQ Chicken Baked Ziti, a delightful fusion that marries the comforting essence of traditional baked ziti with the smoky, tangy flavors of BBQ chicken.

Cheesy BBQ Chicken Baked Ziti

Discover a new twist on a classic comfort food with Cheesy BBQ Chicken Baked Ziti! This mouthwatering dish combines tender ziti pasta, smoky BBQ chicken, and a blend of creamy cheeses for an unforgettable meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it's easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a cozy, flavorful experience that friends and family will love. Enjoy the perfect fusion of flavors and indulge in this satisfying dish!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

12 oz ziti pasta

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

1 cup BBQ sauce

1 cup ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

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

      Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated.

        Mix the Cheeses: In another bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until well mixed.

          Combine Ingredients: In a large baking dish, start layering by placing half of the cooked ziti at the bottom. Spoon half of the chicken mixture over the pasta, followed by half of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti, chicken, and cheese mixture.

            Top with Cheese: Finish by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top of the final layer.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6