Baked Ziti with Chicken and Spinach is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender pasta, flavorful chicken, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese, all brought together by a rich marinara sauce. It’s an ideal dinner option for busy weeknights or when you have guests to impress. With its combination of ingredients, it’s not only delicious but also a well-rounded meal. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare this family-friendly, tasty treat.
Ingredients with Quantities
To prepare this scrumptious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients. Be sure to measure everything out properly to ensure the perfect balance of flavors:
- 12 oz ziti pasta – Ziti is the traditional pasta used in this dish. If you can’t find it, penne or rigatoni would work as well.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced – You can use leftover chicken or cook fresh chicken breasts to shred.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped – Fresh spinach adds a touch of greenery to the dish and brings a slight bitterness that contrasts the richness of the cheese.
- 2 cups marinara sauce – This tomato-based sauce provides the dish with a tangy depth of flavor. You can use store-bought marinara or homemade if you prefer.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – Ricotta is the star cheese in this dish, providing creaminess and richness that bind the ingredients together.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – This adds melty goodness and a mild flavor.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Parmesan brings a nutty, salty element to the dish and helps with browning the top.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – For a gentle garlic flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A mix of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, which enhances the dish’s savory flavors.
- 1/2 tsp salt – To taste.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – Adds a touch of warmth and spiciness.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the spinach and adding richness to the dish.
Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
The first step to making this delicious Baked Ziti with Chicken and Spinach is to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your dish cooks evenly and comes out perfectly golden and bubbly.
Step 2: Cook the Ziti Pasta
Cook 12 oz of ziti pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook it al dente – slightly firm to the bite. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Don’t forget to save a little of the pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later on.
Step 3: Sauté the Spinach
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add 2 cups of fresh chopped spinach to the pan. Sauté for 1-2 minutes or until the spinach wilts and reduces in volume. This step ensures that the spinach cooks down and won’t release excess water into your dish.
Step 4: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded or diced chicken breast, 2 cups of marinara sauce, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 tsp of garlic powder, 1 tsp of Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp of salt, and 1/2 tsp of black pepper. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly mixed. Then, add the sautéed spinach to the bowl and give it one final mix. The spinach should be evenly distributed throughout the pasta mixture.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Next, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread half of the pasta mixture into the bottom of the baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Layer the remaining pasta mixture on top and then add the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan. This layering ensures that each bite is packed with cheese and flavor.
Step 6: Bake the Ziti
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted, golden, and bubbly. If you want a slightly crispier top, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning.
Step 7: Let it Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the cheese set and makes the dish easier to serve.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and still adds great flavor to the dish. Simply shred or chop the chicken and add it to the pasta mixture.
Can I substitute the spinach for another leafy green?
If you’re not a fan of spinach or just want to try something different, you can substitute it with other leafy greens like kale or arugula. Just be sure to sauté them first to soften them.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Baked Ziti with Chicken and Spinach ahead of time! Prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, preheat your oven and bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish freezes wonderfully! Assemble the ziti in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake it according to the directions.
What can I serve with Baked Ziti with Chicken and Spinach?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables to make it a complete meal.
Conclusion
Baked Ziti with Chicken and Spinach is a versatile, delicious, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. It combines the heartiness of pasta, the creaminess of ricotta, and the freshness of spinach in a way that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight meal or making it ahead of time, this baked ziti is sure to become a family favorite. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a comforting, satisfying meal in no time.
Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite of this delicious baked ziti – it’s a dish everyone will love!