Introduction

This creamy chicken feta pasta recipe is the perfect quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. It combines tender chicken, tangy feta, and sun-dried tomatoes in a rich, savory sauce for a truly satisfying meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy Mediterranean-inspired flavors without the fuss. For another fast pasta dish, try this 30-Minute One-Pan Pesto Chicken and Veggies Recipe.

Ingredients

This Mediterranean Chicken Feta Pasta comes together with vibrant, fresh ingredients that promise a burst of tangy feta, juicy tomatoes, and savory herbs in every bite.

• 8 oz farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1.5 lb skinless, boneless chicken tenderloins (or sliced skinless, boneless thighs or breasts)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 oz grape tomatoes (red and yellow), sliced in half
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 5 oz fresh spinach, chopped
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 6 oz crumbled feta cheese

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes

Context: This streamlined Mediterranean Chicken Feta Pasta is ready in about 40 minutes, making it roughly 20% faster than many similar baked pasta recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prep the Ingredients

Pat the chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Cube the feta cheese, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Mince the garlic and chop fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Having everything ready makes the cooking process seamless.

Step 2 — Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 5-7 minutes per side until deeply golden brown. The chicken does not need to be cooked through at this stage. Remove it to a plate; it will finish cooking later.

Step 3 — Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the sliced red onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant to prevent burning. This builds the flavor base for your Mediterranean Chicken Feta Pasta.

Step 4 — Assemble for Baking

Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and cubed feta cheese around it. Pour in chicken broth or a splash of white wine for moisture. The tomatoes and feta will break down in the oven, creating a creamy, tangy sauce.

Step 5 — Bake to Perfection

Transfer the skillet to a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. The dish is ready when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the tomatoes have burst, creating a juicy sauce with the melted feta.

Step 6 — Cook the Pasta

While the chicken bakes, cook your pasta. Use a short shape like penne or fusilli in well-salted boiling water until al dente, reserving about a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. This water is key for adjusting the sauce consistency later.

Step 7 — Combine and Finish

Remove the skillet from the oven. Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the pan or cube it. Add the drained pasta and a handful of fresh spinach or kale if using. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce coats the pasta beautifully.

Step 8 — Garnish and Serve

Finish the Mediterranean Chicken Feta Pasta with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~580 kcal
Protein	~38 g
Carbohydrates	~52 g
Fat	~22 g
Fiber	~4 g
Sodium	~720 mg

Note: These are estimated values for one serving of Mediterranean Chicken Feta Pasta and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

Healthier Alternatives

This Mediterranean Chicken Feta Pasta recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some simple swaps to tailor it to your dietary needs without sacrificing the vibrant, savory flavors.

• Protein Swap: Try Shrimp or Chickpeas — For a seafood twist, use large shrimp. For a plant-based Mediterranean chicken feta pasta, swap the chicken for rinsed, canned chickpeas for a hearty, fiber-rich alternative.
• Lower-Carb Option: Use Zucchini Noodles or Cauliflower Rice — Replace traditional pasta with spiralized zucchini (zoodles) or riced cauliflower. Sauté them briefly to keep a fresh, al dente texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy feta sauce.
• Dairy-Free/Vegan: Substitute Feta with Tofu or Vegan Cheese — Crumble extra-firm, marinated tofu or a block of store-bought vegan feta. The tangy, briny flavor profile remains, making a delicious dairy-free Mediterranean pasta.
• Gluten-Free: Choose Your Favorite GF Pasta — Any sturdy gluten-free pasta shape like penne, fusilli, or chickpea pasta works beautifully. Be sure to cook it al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the sauce.
• Lower-Sodium: Opt for Low-Sodium Feta & Broth — Select a low-sodium feta cheese and use a no-salt-added chicken or vegetable broth. You can amplify flavor with extra garlic, lemon zest, and herbs like oregano and basil.
• Lighter Creaminess: Greek Yogurt for Heavy Cream — For a protein boost with less fat, stir in plain Greek yogurt at the very end instead of heavy cream. It adds a lovely tang and creamy consistency.
• Extra Veggies: Add Spinach or Artichokes — Stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach during the last minute of cooking, or add chopped, marinated artichoke hearts for an extra layer of Mediterranean flavor and nutrients.
• Herb Boost: Fresh vs. Dried — While dried herbs work, using fresh basil, parsley, or dill as a garnish just before serving elevates the dish with a bright, aromatic finish.

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant Mediterranean Chicken Feta Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but a few thoughtful pairings can elevate your dinner. Here are ideas for what to serve with it, perfect occasions, and simple plating tips.

Perfect Pairings

• A Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with lemon-herb vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the feta and adds a fresh, crunchy contrast.
• Grilled Vegetables: Serve with a side of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus to double down on the Mediterranean flavors.
• Warm, Crusty Bread: Essential for soaking up every last bit of the creamy tomato-feta sauce.
• A Light, Refreshing Drink: Pair with a glass of chilled rosé, a crisp white wine, or sparkling water with lemon.

Ideal Occasions

This dish is wonderfully versatile for any gathering. It’s perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a relaxed weekend meal with family, or even a stylish yet easy option for entertaining friends. The one-pan nature makes cleanup a breeze, which is always a win.

Plating Tips for Maximum Appeal

• Use a wide, shallow bowl or plate to showcase the pasta and colorful ingredients.
• Finish with a final sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley, basil, or oregano and a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving.
• For a beautiful presentation, twist the pasta with tongs into a nest in the center of the plate, ensuring pieces of chicken and tomato are visible on top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using low-fat feta. Fix: Full-fat feta melts into a creamier, richer sauce essential for this Mediterranean Chicken Feta Pasta.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the baking dish. Fix: Use a large, shallow pan so tomatoes blister and chicken cooks evenly without steaming.
• Mistake: Adding raw garlic before baking. Fix: Stir minced garlic in after baking to preserve its bright, pungent flavor and avoid bitterness.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the tomatoes and chicken. Fix: Generously season everything with salt, pepper, and dried oregano before it goes in the oven.
• Mistake: Baking at the wrong temperature. Fix: A hot oven (around 400°F) is key for caramelizing the feta and roasting the vegetables properly.
• Mistake: Using watery fresh mozzarella instead of feta. Fix: Feta’s salty, tangy profile is non-negotiable for the signature flavor of this pasta dish.
• Mistake: Not reserving pasta water. Fix: Save a cup of the starchy cooking liquid to loosen the sauce and help it cling to every noodle.
• Mistake: Skipping the fresh finish. Fix: Always garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a drizzle of good olive oil for a vibrant, restaurant-quality touch.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the dish has cooled to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation.
• Freezer: This Mediterranean Chicken Feta Pasta freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space for expansion. It will keep for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water, broth, or olive oil to loosen the sauce. You can also use the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until piping hot. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

For optimal flavor and texture, we recommend enjoying this pasta fresh. If the sauce separates slightly upon reheating, a quick stir will bring it back together beautifully.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Chicken Feta Pasta is a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. For more easy, delicious ideas, try our Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice (30 Minutes, One-Pot) Recipe. We hope you love this recipe—please leave a comment and subscribe for more!

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FAQs

Can I make this Mediterranean Chicken Feta Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead. Assemble the pasta, chicken, and sauce, then store it covered in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to refresh the creamy texture.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

If you don’t have feta, goat cheese or ricotta salata make good substitutes for a similar tangy flavor. For a dairy-free version, consider a crumbled vegan cheese alternative to maintain the character of this Mediterranean Chicken Feta Pasta.

How can I ensure my chicken stays juicy?

For juicy chicken, avoid overcooking it. Cook seasoned chicken pieces in a hot pan just until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and adding it back to the pasta.