Baked Feta Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that beautifully combines creamy, tangy feta with tender chicken and sweet roasted tomatoes, then you absolutely must try this Baked Feta Chicken Pasta. It’s a one-pan, oven-baked wonder that brings together simple ingredients into a comforting, rustic meal packed with flavor and a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to every bite of pasta. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to share with friends, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Baked Feta Chicken Pasta lies in its simplicity, with each ingredient playing a vital role in flavor, texture, and color. Fresh cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness, creamy feta adds a tangy richness, and juicy chicken breasts keep the dish hearty and satisfying. Let’s gather everything that makes this dish a showstopper.

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts: These provide the hearty protein base that soaks up all those wonderful oven-baked flavors.
• 8 ounce block of feta cheese: The star of the dish, melting into a creamy sauce with a sharp, salty punch.
• 2 pints cherry tomatoes: When roasted, they become gloriously sweet and juicy, balancing the feta’s tanginess.
• 5-6 cloves garlic, whole and peeled: Roasting mellows the garlic into a soft, sweet burst that infuses the sauce.
• ⅓ cup olive oil: A healthy fat that helps everything roast beautifully and keeps the chicken moist.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Essential seasoning to bring out the best flavors in every ingredient.
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and complexity to the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A little kick for those who like their food with some spice.
• ¼ cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves: Bright and aromatic, basil adds freshness to the finished pasta.
• 8 ounces uncooked fusilli (or any short pasta): Perfect for capturing the sauce in every curl and crevice.

How to Make Baked Feta Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prep and Arrange Ingredients

First, preheat your oven to 400°F and grab a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Place the chicken breasts and the block of feta in the dish, spacing them evenly. Surround them with the cherry tomatoes and whole garlic cloves. It might look crowded, but that just means all the flavors will come together while roasting.

Step 2: Season and Drizzle with Olive Oil

Next, pour the olive oil generously over the chicken, feta, tomatoes, and garlic. Sprinkle with kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Use clean hands to gently toss and coat everything evenly, ensuring the chicken and feta soak up that glorious olive oil.

Step 3: Bake Until Golden and Juicy

Place the dish uncovered in the oven and bake for about 35 minutes. Begin checking the chicken after 30 minutes to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The tomatoes will blister and soften, and the feta will start to melt but still hold its shape beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While your chicken and veggies are roasting, cook the fusilli in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Save about half a cup of the pasta water to loosen the sauce later if needed — it’s a handy trick to get the perfect consistency.

Step 5: Rest and Slice the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a cutting board to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This keeps the meat juicy and easy to slice, getting it ready to join the pasta for the big finish.

Step 6: Optional Broil for Extra Flavor

If you want to add a nice blister on the tomatoes and deepen the feta’s flavor, pop the dish back in the oven under the broiler for about 3 minutes. This step is optional but highly recommended for a little extra oomph.

Step 7: Combine and Toss Everything Together

Now comes the best part: gently stir the roasted tomatoes, garlic, and feta in the casserole dish, squishing the tomatoes and garlic to create a creamy sauce. Toss in the sliced fresh basil and the cooked pasta, mixing until every piece is coated in sauce. Finally, add the sliced chicken and give everything one last toss before serving.

How to Serve Baked Feta Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves scattered on top add a burst of green and fragrance that perfectly complements the creamy sauce. If you love a little crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese right before serving to take it to the next level.

Side Dishes

This dish shines brightest on its own, but if you’re craving a bit more, a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted garlic bread make fantastic companions. Light, fresh sides balance out the rich flavors of the Baked Feta Chicken Pasta wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving it family-style straight from the casserole dish for a cozy, rustic vibe that invites everyone to dig in. For a dinner party, place individual portions in shallow bowls and garnish each with basil and a drizzle of good olive oil to make it look effortlessly elegant.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baked Feta Chicken Pasta tastes just as delicious the next day. Transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors develop beautifully, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners throughout the week.

Freezing

While you can freeze this dish, keep in mind that pasta might become a bit softer after thawing. For best results, freeze only the baked chicken, feta, and tomato mixture separately in a sealed container, then cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, so the dish heats evenly without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for Baked Feta Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! Fusilli is great because its twists hold the sauce well, but feel free to use penne, rigatoni, or even farfalle depending on what you have on hand. Just be sure to cook it al dente since it will absorb some sauce later.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken and consider adding extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to keep the dish hearty. Roasting the feta with tomatoes and garlic still creates an incredible sauce that works beautifully over pasta.

What if I don’t have fresh basil?

Fresh basil really brightens this dish, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs. Add them right at the end to preserve their aroma.

Can I prepare Baked Feta Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, such as seasoning the chicken and arranging everything in the dish, but reserve baking until you’re ready to eat. This keeps the tomatoes and cheese from becoming too watery.

How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a subtle heat that complements the creamy feta and sweet tomatoes without overtaking the flavor. It’s easily adjustable — leave it out if you prefer no spice or add a pinch more if you like some extra kick.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly satisfying about a dish that’s so simple to make yet delivers bold, comforting flavors with every bite. Baked Feta Chicken Pasta fits that bill perfectly, combining meltingly tender chicken with a rich, tangy sauce that feels like a hug on a plate. I can’t wait for you to try it, share it, and make it your go-to recipe for memorable meals made easy.

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