If you’re looking for a simple yet decadent dish that bursts with flavor, look no further than Chicken Feta Pasta. This comforting, creamy pasta is a symphony of Mediterranean flavors, combining the richness of feta cheese with succulent chicken and a vibrant tomato sauce. The baked feta sauce is the heart of this dish, infusing the pasta with a creamy, tangy, and savory sauce that takes no more than a few minutes to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe is sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step through making a delicious Chicken Feta Pasta, starting from the baked feta sauce that forms the base of the dish to the final creamy pasta masterpiece.
Ingredients
Before diving into the process, here are the ingredients you’ll need to make the Chicken Feta Pasta with baked feta sauce.
For the Baked Feta Sauce:
- 1 block (7-8 oz) feta cheese – Feta cheese is the star of the sauce. It provides a creamy and tangy flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with the tomatoes and olive oil.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved) – Cherry tomatoes are sweet and juicy, and when baked, they burst with flavor, complementing the feta cheese beautifully.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced) – Garlic brings depth and aroma to the dish, and when baked with the other ingredients, it softens and becomes subtly sweet.
- 1/4 cup olive oil – Olive oil provides richness and helps to create a luscious, silky sauce as the feta and tomatoes bake together.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Oregano is a quintessential herb in Mediterranean cooking. It adds an earthy, slightly peppery taste that enhances the flavor of the feta and tomatoes.
For the Chicken:
- 2 chicken breasts – Tender and juicy chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. They absorb the flavors of the sauce and add protein to make the meal more substantial.
- Salt and pepper – Simple seasoning that allows the natural flavor of the chicken to shine.
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta – You can use any type of pasta, but for this recipe, penne, spaghetti, or fusilli work particularly well, as they hold the sauce beautifully.
- Fresh basil – Fresh basil adds a vibrant and aromatic note that cuts through the richness of the feta sauce.
- Red pepper flakes (optional) – If you prefer a touch of heat, red pepper flakes can be sprinkled on top just before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken Feta Pasta
1. Prepare the Baked Feta Sauce
The foundation of this dish is the flavorful baked feta sauce, and it’s incredibly easy to make. Here’s how to prepare it:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the ideal temperature for roasting the feta and tomatoes, allowing them to soften and meld together to form a creamy sauce.
- Assemble the Baking Dish: In a baking dish, place the block of feta cheese in the center. Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes around the feta. The tomatoes should be cut side up to release their juices and enhance the overall sauce.
- Add Garlic, Olive Oil, and Oregano: Sprinkle the minced garlic over the tomatoes and feta, ensuring that the garlic is evenly distributed. Drizzle the olive oil over the feta, tomatoes, and garlic. Finally, sprinkle the dried oregano evenly over the entire dish, infusing the sauce with Mediterranean flavors.
- Bake the Feta Sauce: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the feta cheese softens and the tomatoes burst. The feta will begin to caramelize slightly, and the garlic will become aromatic. Keep an eye on it, as the feta should be slightly golden around the edges but not over-baked or too dry.
- Mash the Sauce: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Use a fork or spoon to mash the feta cheese, tomatoes, and garlic together into a creamy sauce. The tomatoes will release their juices, mixing with the feta to create a rich, tangy, and garlicky sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more oregano if needed.
2. Cook the Chicken
While the feta and tomatoes are baking, you can prepare the chicken. Here’s how to cook it:
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the chicken without overpowering the dish.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown on the outside. Depending on the size of the chicken breasts, the cooking time may vary, so use a meat thermometer to check the doneness.
- Rest and Slice: Once cooked, transfer the chicken breasts to a cutting board and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken tender and juicy. After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
3. Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, you can prepare the pasta:
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta.
- Drain the Pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water will help to thicken the sauce and make it adhere better to the pasta.
4. Assemble the Chicken Feta Pasta
Now that all the components are ready, it’s time to bring everything together.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained pasta. Pour the baked feta sauce over the pasta, mixing it in gently. Add the reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time, stirring until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. The sauce should be creamy and cling to the pasta without being too runny.
- Add the Chicken: Add the sliced chicken on top of the pasta and sauce. Toss the pasta and chicken together to combine, ensuring that the chicken is evenly distributed throughout.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and fragrance. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top. Serve immediately, enjoying the creamy, cheesy goodness of the Chicken Feta Pasta.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Feta Pasta
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta will work, choose a variety with ridges (like penne or rigatoni) to help the sauce cling better to the noodles. Pasta shapes like spaghetti work as well, but they don’t trap the sauce as effectively as ridged pasta.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The key to this dish’s success lies in the freshness of the ingredients. Opt for ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes and high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor.
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate more veggies into the dish. Sautéed spinach, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers make excellent additions that complement the creamy feta sauce.
- Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the baked feta sauce or sprinkle them on top of the dish before serving. A dash of hot sauce can also elevate the flavor if you’re feeling adventurous.
Conclusion: A Creamy and Comforting Delight
Chicken Feta Pasta with Baked Feta Sauce is the perfect dish for anyone who loves rich, creamy, and tangy flavors. The combination of succulent chicken, bursting tomatoes, and tangy feta creates a balanced and delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its deep, comforting flavors and easy preparation.
The baked feta sauce is the true star of the dish, with its ability to transform into a smooth and velvety base that enhances the flavor of the pasta and chicken. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to this irresistible Chicken Feta Pasta tonight!
