Chicken Feta Pasta:
A Creamy, Flavor Packed Dish
Chicken Feta Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, roasted cherry tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese into a rich, tangy sauce. This dish became widely popular thanks to the viral “Baked Feta Pasta” trend, but the addition of juicy, seasoned chicken makes it even more satisfying. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
For the Baked Feta Sauce:
1 block (7-8 oz) feta cheese
2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For the Chicken & Pasta:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baked Feta Sauce
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large baking dish, add the cherry tomatoes and place the block of feta cheese in the center.
3. Drizzle olive oil over everything and sprinkle with minced garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Toss the tomatoes gently to coat them in the seasoning.
4. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the tomatoes burst and the feta is soft and golden.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
1. While the feta and tomatoes are baking, season the chicken pieces with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 4: Combine Everything
1. Remove the baking dish from the oven. Use a fork to mash the roasted tomatoes and feta together, creating a creamy, tangy sauce.
2. Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the baking dish. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
3. Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Serve the pasta warm, straight from the baking dish. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy, and slightly tangy flavors with the delicious bites of chicken!
Tips & Variations
Want a creamier sauce? Add a splash of heavy cream or pasta water before mixing.
Like it spicy? Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Extra veggies? Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers.
Prefer a different protein? Swap chicken for shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
This Chicken Feta Pasta is the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and fresh flavors in every bite. It’s quick, easy, and sure to impress!