Cheesy Baked Ziti with Ground Chicken – Easy Weeknight Dinner Idea

There’s something deeply comforting about a bubbling dish of baked ziti coming straight out of the oven. The aroma of melted cheese, slow-simmered sauce, and perfectly baked pasta fills the kitchen and instantly makes a house feel like home. This Cheesy Baked Ziti with Ground Chicken is one of those timeless meals that bridges generations—rooted in Italian-American tradition, yet flexible enough for modern, busy weeknights.

What makes this version special is the use of ground chicken instead of heavier meats. It keeps the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor, making it perfect for families who want comfort food that still feels balanced. The chicken absorbs the richness of the tomato sauce beautifully, while layers of creamy ricotta, stretchy mozzarella, and savory Parmesan create that irresistible cheesy pull we all love. 😍

This recipe is designed to be simple, forgiving, and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of meal you can prepare ahead, pop in the oven after a long day, and serve with a simple salad or warm bread. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, guests, or just yourself, this baked ziti delivers warmth, tradition, and joy in every bite. So tie on your apron, preheat that oven, and let’s cook something that feels like a hug on a plate. ❤️🍽️

🧀 Ingredients

For the Pasta & Sauce:

• 1 lb ziti pasta
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 oz marinara sauce (homemade or good-quality jarred)
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for gentle heat 🌶️)

For the Cheese Layer:

• 1½ cups ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Add-ins (Traditional but Flexible):

• ½ cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
• 1 cup sautéed mushrooms or spinach

🍝 Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook until just al dente—about 1–2 minutes less than package directions. Drain and set aside. This helps the pasta hold its shape during baking.
2. Prepare the Chicken Sauce
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Brown the Chicken
   Add ground chicken to the skillet. Break it up gently with a spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 5–6 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
4. Simmer the Sauce
   Pour in the marinara sauce and stir well. Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes so the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Mix the Ricotta Layer
   In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the Parmesan, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.
6. Assemble the Ziti
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of sauce. Add half the pasta, then spoon half the ricotta mixture over it. Sprinkle with mozzarella. Repeat layers, finishing with sauce, remaining mozzarella, and Parmesan on top.
7. Bake to Perfection
   Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

🥗 Nutritional Information

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | 🔥 Baking Time: 40 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 55 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~480 | 🍽️ Servings: 6

This dish offers a balanced combination of protein from chicken and cheese, carbohydrates from pasta, and satisfying fats—perfect for an energizing dinner without being overly heavy.

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Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️