Baked Feta Pasta With Chicken

Introduction

If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and satisfies your cravings for comfort food, Baked Feta Pasta with Chicken is the answer. This viral recipe, originally loved for its creamy, tangy feta base, gets a protein-packed twist with the addition of tender chicken. Perfect for weeknights or impressing guests, this dish is as simple as it is delicious. Let’s explore how you can create this delightful recipe!

Why You Will Love It

There’s so much to adore about this recipe—it’s no wonder it’s taking kitchens by storm. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Simple Ingredients: Just a handful of everyday ingredients come together to create magic.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required, as the dish bakes in a single pan.
• Protein-Packed: The addition of chicken makes this pasta a wholesome meal.
• Bursting with Flavor: Creamy feta, juicy tomatoes, and succulent chicken create a perfect harmony.
• Customizable: You can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences by adding veggies, herbs, or spices.

Ingredients To Make Baked Feta Pasta With Chicken

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this rich and creamy dish:

Core Ingredients:

• Feta Cheese: One block (about 8 oz) of high-quality feta for creaminess and tang.
• Cherry Tomatoes: 2 pints of sweet and juicy cherry or grape tomatoes.
• Chicken Breasts: 2-3 medium-sized chicken breasts, cubed or shredded.
• Pasta: 12 oz of your favorite pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti work well).
• Olive Oil: ¼ cup for roasting and flavoring.
• Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced or thinly sliced.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the dish.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Fresh Basil: For garnish and an extra layer of flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: To add a subtle heat.
• Spinach or Kale: For added greens and nutrition.
• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle for added richness.

How To Make Baked Feta Pasta With Chicken

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prep the Ingredients:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Cube the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Assemble the Baking Dish:
   • In a large baking dish, place the block of feta in the center.
   • Surround the feta with cherry tomatoes and garlic. Drizzle everything generously with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Add the Chicken:
   • Scatter the seasoned chicken pieces around the feta and tomatoes in the dish.
4. Bake:
   • Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the tomatoes are soft and bursting.
5. Cook the Pasta:
   • While the feta and chicken bake, cook your pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
6. Mix Everything Together:
   • Remove the baking dish from the oven. Using a fork or spoon, mash the feta and roasted tomatoes into a creamy sauce.
   • Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the dish, stirring everything together until fully coated.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Top with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips For Making The Best Baked Feta Pasta With Chicken

• Use High-Quality Feta: Opt for a block of feta in brine for maximum creaminess and flavor. Crumbled feta doesn’t melt as well.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it stays tender and juicy.
• Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy water helps create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
• Experiment with Veggies: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Season Generously: Salt and pepper the chicken and tomatoes well for a flavor-packed dish.

What To Serve With Baked Feta Pasta With Chicken

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can elevate your meal with these sides:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy feta sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light and refreshing side to balance the richness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Complement the pasta with roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.
• A Glass of Wine: A crisp white or light red pairs beautifully with this dish.

Nutrition

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450-500
Protein	30-35g
Carbohydrates	35-40g
Fat	18-20g
Fiber	4-6g

Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Essential Kitchen Tools For This Recipe

Having the right tools makes preparation a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large Baking Dish: For roasting the feta, tomatoes, and chicken.
• Mixing Spoon or Fork: To mash the feta and mix the pasta.
• Large Pot: For cooking the pasta.
• Sharp Knife: To cube the chicken.
• Cutting Board: For prepping ingredients.

Other Recipes You’ll Love

• Egg Muffins
• Yogurt Fruit Dip
• Chocolate Dipped Fruit
• Cool Whip Fruit Dip
• Peach Cobbler Egg Rolls
• Gluten Free Peach Cobbler

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?

Yes! Cream cheese or ricotta can be used for a milder flavor, though the tanginess of feta is key to the dish’s charm.

2. What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

Short pasta like penne or fusilli works best as it holds the creamy sauce well.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Skip the chicken and add more veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

4. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

5. How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Recipe Cards

Conclusion

Baked Feta Pasta with Chicken is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining creamy feta, juicy chicken, and tangy tomatoes in one delicious dish. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. So, grab your baking dish and get ready to savor this viral favorite with a protein-packed twist!

For more tasty recipes like this, visit Taste Bliss Recipe.

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