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Comfort food is a term that evokes feelings of warmth, nostalgia, and satisfaction, often taking center stage during family gatherings, potlucks, or busy weeknight dinners. In the realm of comfort food, few dishes can compete with the heartiness and flavor of Cheesy BBQ Chicken Baked Ziti. This dish not only combines the richness of Italian pasta with the smoky, tangy essence of BBQ but also provides a filling and delicious meal that can please even the pickiest eaters.

Cheesy BBQ Chicken Baked Ziti

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Cheesy BBQ Chicken Baked Ziti, a delightful twist on classic pasta. This dish layers ziti, shredded chicken, and a blend of cheeses all enveloped in smoky BBQ sauce, creating a hearty meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its rich and creamy texture, it's a crowd-pleaser for even the pickiest eaters. Explore versatile variations to suit your taste, making it your new favorite comfort food!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz ziti pasta

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)

1 cup ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.

    Cook the Ziti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set aside for later use.

      Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir thoroughly to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.

        Mix the Cheeses: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, half of the shredded cheddar, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses are well incorporated, creating a creamy and rich blend.

          Combine Ingredients: In a generously greased large baking dish, begin layering: first, add half of the cooked ziti at the bottom. Then, spoon half of the BBQ chicken mixture over the pasta, followed by half of the cheesy blend. Repeat this layering process with the remaining ziti, chicken, and cheese mixtures, finishing with the last layer of the cheese blend.

            Top with Cheese: For that ultimate cheesy goodness, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer of the baked ziti.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully bubbly and golden brown.

                Garnish and Serve: After baking, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes to set. Before serving, garnish your Cheesy BBQ Chicken Baked Ziti with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

                    - Presentation Tips: For serving, dish out generous portions onto plates or bowls and drizzle a touch of extra BBQ sauce on top for added flavor. A sprinkle of additional chopped parsley can provide a fresh finish! Enjoy!