Baked Feta Pasta with Chicken

Table of Contents

Something is magical about a dish that warms your soul as much as it nourishes your body. I stumbled upon Baked Feta Pasta with Chicken on one of those cozy evenings when the world outside felt like a winter wonderland. The scent of garlic and fresh herbs wafted through my kitchen, mingling with the rich aroma of baked feta as it melted beautifully into the cherry tomatoes. I remember sitting down with my family, each bite bursting with flavor while the creamy, tangy feta enveloped every strand of pasta. With just the right amount of crispy chicken on top, it was dish that felt like a hug, a warm embrace on a chilly night. I knew from that moment on that this recipe would become a beloved staple, and I’m certain it will find a warm spot in your heart too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Quick: Prep in under 10 minutes, and your oven does the hard work!
• Flavor Explosion: Fresh tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and creamy feta create a taste symphony.
• Healthy Twist: Packed with protein from the chicken and fresh veggies—what’s not to love?
• Perfect for Gatherings: Impress friends and family without breaking a sweat!
• Endless Variations: Make it your own with seasonal veggies or different proteins.

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb Gigli Pasta (or your favorite small pasta): Choose a pasta that holds onto the sauce perfectly, making every bite flavorful!
• 2 cups Cherry Tomatoes: The riper, the better! These burst with sweetness as they roast in the oven.
• 1 bundle Thyme sprigs: Fresh herbs elevate your dish! You can also use basil, rosemary, or oregano if you prefer.
• 2 cloves fresh Garlic: Nothing beats the aroma of freshly minced garlic sizzling away in the kitchen!
• 1 block Feta Cheese, about 8oz: The star of the show! Baked until creamy for that dreamy texture.
• 2, 6oz Chicken Breasts: Seasoned simply to bring out their natural flavors—so juicy and tender!
• 1/2 cup Olive Oil: This enriches the dish and helps achieve that beautiful golden color.
• 1/4 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: A little kick to offset the creaminess—adjust to your spice tolerance!
• Kosher Salt and Fresh Cracked Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors and making everything pop.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Letting your oven warm up is the first step toward turning those ingredients into a mouthwatering meal!

Create Your Flavor Base

In a baking dish, add the cherry tomatoes, thyme, garlic, feta, and seasoned chicken. Drizzle that luscious olive oil over everything—feel free to get liberal! Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then toss it all together until it’s lovingly coated.

Bake Away!

Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Your kitchen will start smelling heavenly, indicating it’s almost time to dig in! Be sure to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Cook Your Pasta

While the chicken and tomatoes are baking, cook your pasta according to the package directions. Save around 2 cups of that starchy pasta water; it’s liquid gold for bringing your dish together! Strain the pasta and set aside.

Adjust for Perfection

After 30 minutes, check the chicken’s temperature. If it’s nearly done, crank up the oven to 450°F (232°C) and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the feta and tomatoes turn golden brown. If you’d like, you can finish it off under the broiler for an extra 3-5 minutes of browning goodness!

Mix It All Together

Once it’s baked to perfection, take out the dish. Remove the chicken, thyme bundle, and garlic cloves (you can keep the garlic to add back later!). Now, toss the pasta and red pepper flakes into the gloriously creamy mixture, stirring until the feta breaks apart and envelops every delightful pasta piece.

Shred the Chicken

Using your hands or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, shred the chicken and incorporate those sweet garlic cloves for flavor. Add the shredded chicken back into the pan, stirring it all together like a warm family gathering.

Final Touches

Finish it off with fresh chives and extra feta crumbles, seasoning with more salt and pepper as necessary. Dig in and enjoy the cozy vibes!

Pro Tips for Success

• Use Ripe Tomatoes: The riper the tomatoes, the sweeter they’ll be when roasted.
• Don’t Rush the Browning: The dish benefits from that little extra time in a hotter oven—it’s worth it!
• Add More Veggies: Sneak in some chopped spinach or zucchini for added nutrients.
• Taste as You Go: Don’t be shy—check your seasoning levels at various steps for optimal flavor.

Flavor Variations

• Swap out the cherry tomatoes for roasted bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Try adding spinach or kale for some color and nutrition.
• Swap chicken for shrimp or a plant-based protein like chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a fresh side salad or crusty Italian bread. A simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast. As for drinks, a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon will elevate your dinner experience.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prep the baking dish up to a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge before baking. The dish keeps well for about 3-4 days in an airtight container in the fridge—it only gets better as the flavors meld!

Leftovers

Transform leftovers into a pasta salad for lunch the next day. Toss in some fresh arugula and a squeeze of lemon juice for zesty fun!

Freezing

While I recommend enjoying this dish fresh for the best texture, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store in airtight containers and label with dates!

Reheating

• Skillet: For the best texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to bring back the creaminess.
• Oven: You can also reheat in a 350°F (177°C) oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: It’s convenient, but be mindful to cover it and stir midway to avoid uneven heating.

FAQs

Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely! Goat cheese or mozzarella works beautifully too—feel free to experiment!

Is there a vegetarian option?
Of course! You can omit the chicken entirely, adding more veggies or plant-based protein instead.

What pasta shapes work best?
Any small pasta works well, like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Choose one that you love!

Can I make this dish less spicy?
Sure thing! Just leave out the crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder flavor.

Final Thoughts

My friends, I hope this Baked Feta Pasta with Chicken finds a treasured spot on your dinner table. Every bite tells a story, and I love knowing you’re sharing this warmth with your loved ones. So gather around, dig in, and let the comforting flavors transport you to your happy place. Until next time—happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with joy and delicious scents! 🥰✨