Creamy Chicken Feta Pasta Bake: A Comforting Delight

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting and delicious dish to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds, look no further than the Creamy Chicken Feta Pasta Bake. This luscious recipe combines tender chicken, creamy feta cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal for your family, this dish is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

12 oz (340 g) penne or rigatoni pasta
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Olive oil for sautéing

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pasta bake will cook evenly and develop that golden crust we all love.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed onions and garlic, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, spinach, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, and stir until everything is well mixed.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

Let the pasta bake cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad and a glass of white wine.

Cooking Tips

Ingredient Selection: Use high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider using a spreadable feta.
Chicken Options: Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver. Alternatively, you can grill or pan-sear chicken breasts and shred them for this recipe.
Veggie Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.

Mouthwatering Descriptions

Imagine the aroma of garlic and onion wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the creamy richness of feta and the savory goodness of chicken. As the pasta bake cooks, the cheese melts into a gooey, golden topping that beckons you to dig in. Each forkful delivers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, from the tender pasta to the succulent chicken, all enveloped in a creamy sauce.

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your meal, serve the Creamy Chicken Feta Pasta Bake with:

A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
Garlic bread for those who crave a little extra crunch.
A refreshing glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red wine.

Conclusion

The Creamy Chicken Feta Pasta Bake is not just a dish; it’s a comforting hug in a casserole dish. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment with ingredients and personalize it to suit your taste.

Now that you have this recipe in hand, gather your ingredients and start cooking! Your taste buds will thank you. And remember, sharing is caring, so don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family. Happy cooking!

Creamy Chicken Feta Pasta Bake