Chicken And Ziti Casserole
A comforting baked casserole combining tender ziti, savory chicken, and rich spaghetti sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart casserole, stir together spaghetti sauce, cooked ziti, cooked chicken, and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding ricotta cheese to the mixture before baking. You can substitute the cooked chicken with leftover rotisserie chicken or even turkey for a delicious twist. For a healthier option, add spinach or broccoli to the casserole. If you prefer a spicy kick, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or Italian sausage.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken And Ziti Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier side, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a classic Caesar salad. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top adds a lovely touch before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power until hot, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken And Ziti Casserole contains roughly 394 calories, with 27g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (54% of the Daily Value) and calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 878mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of ziti?
If you don't have ziti on hand, you can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni. The key is to use a similar pasta shape that holds the sauce well.
Can this dish be frozen?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).