Crack Chicken Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food dish that blends creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and juicy chicken into one hearty, satisfying casserole. The name says it all — it’s so flavorful and indulgent, it’s hard to stop at just one serving. Perfectly cooked ziti pasta is tossed with a luscious ranch-flavored cream cheese sauce, mixed with tender shredded chicken, and layered with melty cheeses. Baked until golden and bubbly, this dish brings a mouthwatering twist to traditional pasta night. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or prepping meals for the week, this baked ziti recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It freezes well, reheats beautifully, and satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it comes together easily with everyday ingredients, making it both convenient and crave-worthy. With each bite, you get the smoky bacon crunch, cheesy pull, and that signature ranch kick. It’s a decadent dinner that tastes like something you’d order at your favorite cozy restaurant, but right in your own kitchen.
What Makes This Pasta Irresistible
This dish is a comfort food trifecta: creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. The rich combination of cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and cheddar makes the sauce incredibly velvety and tangy. The crispy bacon adds a savory crunch, while the chicken provides lean protein to balance the decadence. It’s a one-dish wonder that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. Ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or meal prep, it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tbsp homemade ranch seasoning)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil ziti in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in cream cheese, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning until smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the Casserole
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, bacon (reserving some for topping), and sauce. Mix until well coated. Stir in half of the cheddar and mozzarella.
4. Bake It
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining cheeses and reserved bacon. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
5. Garnish and Serve
Let it cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve warm.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in steamed broccoli or spinach.
- Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or low-carb pasta.
- Extra Creamy: Add 1/2 cup sour cream or heavy cream to the sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need:
- Large skillet
- Pasta pot
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: ~560 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fat: 34g
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze baked and cooled portions for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until hot.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours.
My Cooking Experience:
The first time I made Crack Chicken Baked Ziti, I was blown away by how easy it was to put together, yet how rich and flavorful it turned out. I’ve since made it for family gatherings and even brought it to a potluck—it was gone in minutes! The cream cheese ranch combo creates the dreamiest sauce, and adding crispy bacon takes it over the top. It’s a go-to comfort food recipe I reach for when I want something truly satisfying.
Conclusion:
Crack Chicken Baked Ziti is a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that combines beloved flavors into one irresistible meal. It’s simple enough for a weeknight and impressive enough for guests. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or planning ahead for the week, this pasta bake delivers every single time. Try it once, and you’ll see why it’s called “crack” chicken—because everyone wants seconds!
crack chicken baked ziti
Ingredients
Method
- Boil ziti in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in cream cheese, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning until smooth and creamy.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, bacon (reserving some for topping), and sauce. Mix until well coated. Stir in half of the cheddar and mozzarella.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining cheeses and reserved bacon. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let it cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze baked and cooled portions for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until hot.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours.