Baked Chicken and Ziti

prep time:: 30 min
total time:: 1 hr

Makes 4 servings

Light and healthy!

ingredients

1/2 pound skinless boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1/4" strips
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
One 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes (no salt added)
1 tsp. Italian herb seasoning
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
2 cups ziti or penne
2/3 cup nonfat ricotta cheese
1/3 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese

directions

Spray a large nonstick skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Add the chicken and cook, turning as needed, until lightly browned, 5-6 minutes. Transfer to a plate. Preheat the oven to 375°. Spray the same skillet with more nonstick cooking spray. Add the onion and garlic; cook, stirring as needed, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the tomatoes, Italian seasoning and pepper; bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, stirring as needed, until the mixture is thickened slightly, 8-10 minutes. Meanwhile, cook the ziti according to package directions. Drain and mix with the ricotta cheese. Pour half of the tomato mixture into a 13 X 9" baking pan, layer with ziti mixture, the chicken and the remaining tomato mixture. Sprinkle with the cheeses. Bake until hot and bubbling and the cheese is melted, 15-20 minutes.