Go Back
When creating the perfect Cheesy BBQ Chicken Baked Ziti, the way you layer your ingredients plays a pivotal role in achieving the best texture and flavor. Proper layering ensures that every bite is a harmonious blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and savory barbecue chicken.

Cheesy BBQ Chicken Baked Ziti

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy BBQ Chicken Baked Ziti. This mouthwatering dish combines the smoky flavors of barbecue chicken with creamy cheeses and ziti pasta for a harmonious blend of taste and texture. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to please both kids and adults. Discover the joy of layering flavors and creating a heartwarming meal that will bring everyone together at the table.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

12 oz ziti pasta

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably rotisserie)

1 cup BBQ sauce (preferably smoky)

2 cups marinara sauce

1 cup ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Combine chicken and sauces: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce and marinara sauce. Stir until the chicken is well-coated.

        Prepare cheesy mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup), grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper. Mix well until smooth.

          Layer the ziti: In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread half of the cooked ziti across the bottom. Layer with half of the BBQ chicken mixture, followed by half of the cheesy mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti, chicken, and cheese, finishing off with the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

            Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

              Let rest: Remove the ziti from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set.

                Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley just before serving for a touch of freshness.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                    30 minutes | 1 hour | 6 servings