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crack chicken baked ziti
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crack chicken baked ziti

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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: chicken
Calories: 560
Ingredients Method Notes

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

Method
 

  1. Boil ziti in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. 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. 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. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining cheeses and reserved bacon. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
  5. Let it cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve warm.

Notes

  1. Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  2. Freezing: Freeze baked and cooled portions for up to 2 months.
  3. Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until hot.
  4. Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours.