Name: Crack Chicken Baked Ziti Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 3 cups ziti pasta (uncooked: Perfect for holding the creamy sauce.); 1 ½ lbs chicken breast (cubed: Fresh chicken works best; cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.); 12 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled: Adds a salty, crunchy topping.); 3 tablespoons butter: The base for creating a luscious cheese sauce.; ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce without making it heavy.; 3 cups milk (whole: Adds creaminess; avoid skim milk as it might make the sauce too thin.); 1 package (1 oz dry ranch mix: The secret ingredient for tangy flavor.); 3 cloves garlic (minced: Fresh garlic enhances the overall aroma and taste.); 1 package (8 oz cream cheese (cubed and softened): Go for full-fat for the best texture.); 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided: Freshly shredded is best to avoid a greasy texture.); Salt (pepper, and paprika (to taste): Simple seasonings to boost the chicken's flavor.)

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I recently made Crack Chicken Baked Ziti, and wow, it was an instant hit! The creamy cheese, savory bacon, and juicy chicken combined with pasta is a comfort-food dream. Every bite was packed with flavor, and the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! Whether it’s for a family dinner or a potluck, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds.

Crack Chicken Baked Ziti Recipe — Source: sweetandsavorymeals

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious recipe. Following these exact measurements ensures a balanced flavor in every bite.

3 cups ziti pasta (uncooked): Perfect for holding the creamy sauce.
1 ½ lbs chicken breast (cubed): Fresh chicken works best; cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
12 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled): Adds a salty, crunchy topping.
3 tablespoons butter: The base for creating a luscious cheese sauce.
¼ cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce without making it heavy.
3 cups milk (whole): Adds creaminess; avoid skim milk as it might make the sauce too thin.
1 package (1 oz) dry ranch mix: The secret ingredient for tangy flavor.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic enhances the overall aroma and taste.
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese (cubed and softened): Go for full-fat for the best texture.
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Freshly shredded is best to avoid a greasy texture.
Salt, pepper, and paprika (to taste): Simple seasonings to boost the chicken’s flavor.

Note: These quantities serve approximately 8 people. Adjust as needed for smaller or larger groups.

Variations

Need to tailor the recipe for specific preferences or dietary needs? Here are some variations:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour alternative for the sauce.
Dairy-Free: Replace milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese.
Add Heat: For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red chili flakes.
Protein Options: Swap chicken with ground turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or cubed ham.
Extra Veggies: Stir in cooked broccoli, spinach, or diced bell peppers for added nutrients.

If you’re looking for a unique chicken dish, try our Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe.

Cooking Time

Making this dish is quick and simple! Here’s a breakdown of the timing:

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Equipment You Need

Having the right tools makes preparation and cooking easier:

Large skillet: For cooking the chicken and making the sauce.
Large pot: To boil the pasta.
Mixing bowl: To combine ingredients before transferring them to the baking dish.
13×9-inch baking dish: Perfect for layering and baking the ziti.
Whisk: Essential for making a smooth cheese sauce.
Aluminum foil: Optional for covering the dish while baking, to prevent over-browning.

How to Make Crack Chicken Baked Ziti?

This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, broken down into easy steps to guide you.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish lightly and set aside. Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package directions, drain, and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned and fully cooked through, stirring occasionally. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk until it forms a paste (roux). Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Stir in the ranch mix, garlic, and cream cheese until melted. Add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and cheese sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and remaining cheddar cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Serve hot and enjoy!

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

To create an even more delicious Crack Chicken Baked Ziti, here are some personal tips:

Grate Cheese Fresh: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the dish greasy. Grating it fresh ensures a smooth and creamy sauce.
Cover If Needed: If the cheese on top is browning too quickly, cover the dish with foil during the first half of the baking time.
Save Some Sauce: Reserve a portion of the cheese sauce to drizzle over the ziti after baking for extra creaminess.
Layer Flavors: For more depth, add sautéed onions or mushrooms to the mix.

For a creative twist on chicken, don’t miss our BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe.

How to Serve Crack Chicken Baked Ziti?

Elevate your presentation with these serving ideas:

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top for a pop of color.
Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Serve individual portions in small ramekins for a fancy, restaurant-style feel.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Crack Chicken Baked Ziti contains approximately:

Calories: 580
Protein: 33 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fat: 36 g

This nutritional estimate may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion size.

Make Ahead and Storage

You can easily prep this dish in advance or save leftovers! Here’s how:

Make Ahead: Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Bake at 350°F (180°C) until heated through. Add a splash of milk or cheese sauce to avoid drying out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s what makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser:

Easy to Make: Simple step-by-step process suitable for beginners.
Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and absolutely satisfying.
Customizable: Offers options for different dietary needs and preferences.
Great for Groups: Perfect for potlucks or family dinners.
Freezer-Friendly: Ideal for meal-prepping in advance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Better Results

While this recipe is simple, there are a few mistakes to watch out for:

Overcooking Pasta: Make sure the pasta is cooked al dente; it will continue to cook in the oven.
Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Always shred your cheese for the creamiest sauce.
Skipping Sauce Graduality: Add milk slowly to avoid a lumpy or thin sauce.
Forgetting to Season: Properly seasoning the chicken and sauce is key to a flavorful dish.

Crack Chicken Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food, whether you’re whipping it up for weeknight dinners or entertaining a crowd. Get ready to impress with this simple, delicious recipe! For more chicken-based recipes, check out our Chicken Recipes.

Ash Tyrrell