Buffalo Chicken Baked Ziti is a bold and flavorful twist on traditional Italian pasta bakes. It combines the creamy, cheesy comfort of baked ziti with the spicy kick of buffalo chicken, creating the ultimate fusion dish that satisfies both comfort food lovers and spice enthusiasts. Perfect for game nights, family dinners, or potlucks, this casserole brings together everything you love about buffalo wings and pasta in one hearty dish.
Buffalo Chicken Baked Ziti:
This recipe takes the classic ziti pasta and infuses it with tender shredded chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, rich cheese, and a touch of ranch or blue cheese dressing for balance. Baked to golden perfection, each bite bursts with creamy, spicy, and cheesy goodness that’s sure to become a new household favorite.
History:
Buffalo Chicken Baked Ziti is inspired by the famous Buffalo wings that originated in Buffalo, New York, in the 1960s. As the flavor grew in popularity, chefs began experimenting with new ways to enjoy that iconic spicy sauce. The combination of buffalo chicken and pasta emerged as a modern comfort food trend in the 2000s, quickly earning its place on family tables and restaurant menus across America.
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Buffalo Chicken Baked Ziti
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish.
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
- Add shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and cream cheese. Stir until creamy.
- Mix in ranch or blue cheese dressing, then add half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- Combine the buffalo chicken mixture with cooked pasta.
- Transfer to the prepared baking dish and top with remaining cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Adjust buffalo sauce amount for milder or spicier flavor.
- Add extra cream cheese for a richer texture.
- Substitute ziti with penne or rigatoni if preferred.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave.
Tips Buffalo Chicken Ziti :
- Mix cheeses for the best flavor balance.
- Add crumbled blue cheese on top for a restaurant-style finish.
- Serve with celery sticks for a classic buffalo pairing.
- Make ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
- Drizzle extra buffalo sauce on top before serving for extra heat.
FAQs Buffalo Chicken Baked Ziti :
Q: Can I make this without chicken?
Yes, you can substitute cooked cauliflower or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Q: Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Ziti?
Absolutely! Freeze before baking for up to 3 months, then thaw and bake as directed.
Q: What cheese works best?
Mozzarella, cheddar, and a touch of blue cheese create the perfect flavor combo.
Q: Can I use store-bought buffalo sauce?
Yes, any preferred brand works, or make your own with hot sauce and butter.
Q: How can I make it creamier?
Add more ranch or a splash of heavy cream before baking.
Conclusion:
Buffalo Chicken Baked Ziti is a flavorful, crowd-pleasing comfort dish that combines the best of spicy buffalo chicken and creamy pasta. Its gooey cheese, rich sauce, and fiery kick make it a showstopper at any meal. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a potluck, this baked ziti is sure to impress