Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a simple yet irresistible dinner, this Baked Feta Chicken Pasta is your new go-to recipe. Imagine juicy chicken, creamy feta, tangy tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta all mingling together in one mouthwatering dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy weeknights, family get-togethers, or whenever you crave comfort food with a gourmet twist. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Feta Chicken Pasta
- Super easy prep – everything bakes together for minimal fuss and mess.
- Rich, creamy texture thanks to the melted feta cheese and roasted tomatoes.
- Deliciously juicy chicken adds extra protein and makes it a complete meal.
- Highly customizable – swap veggies or pasta to match your mood or pantry.
- Makes fantastic leftovers for lunches or dinner the next day.
Ingredients for Baked Feta Chicken Pasta
- 8 oz (225g) feta cheese block
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (about 10 oz/280g), halved
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb/450g), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
How to Make Baked Feta Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large 9×13-inch baking dish, place the feta block in the center. Surround it with halved cherry tomatoes and the chicken pieces. Drizzle everything with olive oil, sprinkle over the minced garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toss the tomatoes and chicken gently to coat, leaving the feta in the center untouched.
Step 2: Bake the Feta and Chicken
Bake, uncovered, for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the tomatoes are bursting and juicy. The feta should be soft and slightly golden on top.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the feta mixture bakes, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain.
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
When the baking dish comes out of the oven, use a spoon to mash the warm feta and tomatoes together, mixing with the chicken to form a creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta directly into the baking dish and toss until everything is evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Top with fresh basil leaves and a final drizzle of olive oil. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes for the Perfect Baked Feta Chicken Pasta
- For the creamiest sauce, use a full-fat feta block, not pre-crumbled feta (Bon Appétit).
- Add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers for more nutrition and color.
- Check chicken doneness with a meat thermometer – it should reach 165°F (74°C).
Baked Feta Chicken Pasta Variations
- Mediterranean: Add kalamata olives and sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
- Spicy: Double the red pepper flakes and toss in some sliced jalapeños.
- Vegetarian: Omit the chicken, and add roasted zucchini or eggplant instead.
Equipment Needed for Baked Feta Chicken Pasta
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
How to Store Baked Feta Chicken Pasta
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. This dish does not freeze well due to the texture of the feta.
Serving Suggestions for Baked Feta Chicken Pasta
- Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside a chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc.
- Top with extra parmesan cheese for added richness!
Pro Tips for Best Baked Feta Chicken Pasta Results
- Roast the tomatoes and feta uncovered to help everything caramelize and develop deeper flavor.
- Reserve some pasta water to ensure a silky, creamy sauce (Serious Eats).
- Use freshly torn basil for a fresh burst of flavor at the end (Healthline – Basil Nutrition).
Baked Feta Chicken Pasta FAQ
- Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?
- It’s best to use a whole block of feta, as it melts creamier and gives the sauce a better texture.
- What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
- Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni work great for holding the creamy sauce.
- Can I make Baked Feta Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
- You can prep the ingredients ahead, but for the best flavor and texture, bake and mix right before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz feta cheese block
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
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1Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the feta cheese block in the center of a baking dish and surround it with cherry tomatoes and chicken pieces.
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2Drizzle olive oil over the feta, tomatoes, and chicken. Sprinkle with minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to coat.
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3Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the tomatoes are blistered.
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4Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
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5Remove the baking dish from the oven. Stir the feta, tomatoes, and chicken together to create a creamy sauce.
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6Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired creaminess. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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