If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that practically cooks itself, look no further than this delectable Crock Pot Chicken Baked Ziti! Bursting with Italian flavors and oozing with melted cheese, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family. Imagine coming home to a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen, with tender pasta and savory chicken waiting for you. In just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by measuring out all components: ziti pasta, marinara sauce, shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Italian seasoning.
- Lightly grease the inside of your 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- If chicken is not already cooked and shredded, poach or bake chicken breasts, then shred using two forks. Ensure chicken is fully cooked to 165°F internal temperature.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add uncooked ziti pasta directly into the slow cooker, then pour the chicken and sauce mixture over the pasta. Gently stir to ensure pasta is coated and distributed evenly.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to LOW heat setting. Cook for
- 5 to 4 hours, stirring once halfway through cooking to prevent pasta from sticking.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the dish, allowing it to melt and create a golden, bubbly surface.
- Check pasta for doneness by testing a few pieces - they should be tender but not mushy. If needed, cook an additional 15-20 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, turn off the slow cooker and let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes to allow sauce to thicken and flavors to meld.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh basil or additional Italian seasoning if desired. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time. Cook and shred it a day before, so all you need to do is mix it with the other ingredients when you're ready to cook.
- Layering is Key: When adding the ingredients to the slow cooker, make sure to layer them properly. Start with the uncooked ziti, then pour the chicken mixture over it to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Don’t Skip the Cheese: For that perfect gooey top, make sure to add the mozzarella cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will allow it to melt beautifully without becoming overcooked.
- Check for Doneness: Pasta can vary in cooking time, so be sure to taste a few pieces toward the end of the cooking time. If it’s not quite tender enough, give it an extra 15-20 minutes.
- Garnish for Flavor: Elevate your dish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or a dash of extra Italian seasoning right before serving. It adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that makes a big difference!
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve your Crock Pot Chicken Baked Ziti with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal that will impress your guests!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
