Save This budget chicken and cheese pasta bake is my answer to busy weeknights and stretching our grocery budget while still dishing up pure comfort. Between the melty cheese and hearty chicken filling, no one goes hungry and there is almost always a fight for seconds.
My own kids devoured this the first time I tested it and now it is a part of our regular rotation. I have even doubled it for potlucks to rave reviews every single time.
Ingredients
- Ziti pasta: offers satisfying bite and holds onto the sauce nicely Look for bronze cut if available for better texture
- Diced cooked chicken: makes this a great use for leftover rotisserie or meal prepped breast Use all white meat or a mix for extra flavor
- Tomato sauce: brings tang and moisture Pick a good-quality jar or use homemade
- Cottage cheese: adds creaminess and protein Go for full-fat for best texture
- Egg: gives the bake body and helps it set Choose large eggs that are fresh for best results
- Shredded mozzarella: is essential for that bubbly golden top Pick whole milk mozzarella for best melt and browning
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the ziti in well salted water until just barely al dente This prevents mushy pasta later Drain thoroughly
- Mix the Filling:
- In a large bowl combine the diced chicken tomato sauce cottage cheese and egg Stir until fully mixed and the egg is evenly distributed
- Combine with Pasta:
- Gently fold the cooked pasta into the chicken mixture Take care not to break the ziti for the best texture
- Assemble in Baking Dish:
- Spoon everything into a lightly greased baking dish and spread evenly for even baking
- Top with Cheese:
- Scatter the shredded mozzarella all over the top covering to the very edges for maximum golden bits
- Bake:
- Place in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about twenty five minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top Let set for five minutes before serving for cleaner slices
Save My favorite part is the cheesy top that bubbles up golden every time Sometimes my kids hover until I let them scoop the edge because that part disappears first and it is such a treat. Every time I make this my family ends up at the table early just to snag the corners.
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool to room temperature then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to three days If moisture collects simply drain before reheating For crispier cheese reheat uncovered in a hot oven Or microwave covered for convenience The bake also freezes well Just wrap individual slices or the whole dish and thaw overnight before reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have ziti use penne or macaroni Any tubular pasta works Rotisserie chicken is an easy replacement for poached or grilled Want to make it vegetarian Swap chicken for cooked white beans Try ricotta in place of cottage cheese or stir in a bit of cream cheese and yogurt for richness
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a leafy green salad or simple steamed broccoli for contrast This is also fantastic with a wedge of garlic bread I love to scatter fresh herbs like basil or parsley over the top just before serving for freshness and color Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if your crew likes a little heat
Save Give this bake a try to make weeknights easier and tastier for your family. Enjoy every cheesy forkful!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, penne or rigatoni work well as substitutes for ziti in this baked dish.
- → What cheese can replace cottage cheese?
Ricotta is an excellent alternative, offering a richer, creamier result in the casserole.
- → Can I assemble ahead of time?
Prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best texture.
- → How do I know when it’s done baking?
The top should be golden and the filling bubbling around the edges, usually after 25 minutes.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
Yes, leftovers store and reheat well, making this dish ideal for lunches or make-ahead dinners.