Baked feta pasta has taken the internet by storm, and for good reason! This incredibly simple yet unbelievably delicious dish requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Adding chicken elevates it to a complete and satisfying meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. This guide will walk you through creating the perfect baked feta pasta with chicken, answering common questions and providing tips for success.
What Makes Baked Feta Pasta So Popular?
The magic lies in the simplicity and the surprising creaminess. The feta cheese, baked alongside cherry tomatoes and pasta, melts into a luscious, salty sauce that coats every strand perfectly. Adding chicken boosts the protein content, making it a more substantial and satisfying meal. The minimal cleanup is a bonus!
How to Make Baked Feta Pasta with Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb pasta (rotini, penne, or fusilli work well)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 8 oz block feta cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook the pasta: Cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Cook the chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken with salt and pepper and cook in a pan with a little olive oil until fully cooked through. Set aside.
- Assemble the dish: In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, toss the cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Arrange the feta: Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the tomatoes.
- Add the pasta and chicken: Add the cooked pasta and chicken around the feta cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the feta is melted and creamy and the tomatoes are softened.
- Stir and serve: Remove from the oven and gently stir everything together, incorporating the melted feta into the pasta and tomatoes. Add a little pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Garnish with fresh basil (if using) and serve immediately.
What Kind of Pasta is Best for Baked Feta Pasta?
Almost any pasta shape works well! Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, fusilli, farfalle, or even small shells are excellent choices because they easily coat with the creamy feta sauce. Avoid long, thin pasta like spaghetti or angel hair, as they might not hold the sauce as well.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to Baked Feta Pasta with Chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe is very adaptable. Consider adding:
- Spinach: Wilt some fresh spinach into the dish during the last few minutes of baking.
- Zucchini or bell peppers: Chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the tomatoes before baking.
- Mushrooms: Sauté some mushrooms before adding them to the dish.
- Olives: Kalamata olives add a nice salty, briny flavor.
Can I Make Baked Feta Pasta Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the components ahead of time – cook the pasta and chicken separately and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble the dish just before baking for the best results. However, it's best enjoyed fresh from the oven, as the feta can become less creamy if reheated.
How Do I Make Baked Feta Pasta Vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken! The recipe is naturally vegetarian without it. You can add extra vegetables to make it even heartier.
What to Serve with Baked Feta Pasta with Chicken?
This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but a simple side salad or some crusty bread would complement it nicely. A light vinaigrette dressing for the salad would be a perfect pairing.
This baked feta pasta with chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its ease of preparation and delicious flavor make it a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy!
