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Crack Chicken Baked Ziti Recipe
Ash Tyrrell

Crack Chicken Baked Ziti Recipe

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.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course: Main Course
Calories: 580
Ingredients Method Notes

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.

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 13x9-inch baking dish lightly and set aside. Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package directions, drain, and set aside.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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!

Notes

  • 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.