Creamy Chicken Feta Pasta Bake with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy pasta dish that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, the Creamy Chicken Feta Pasta Bake with Sun-Dried Tomatoes should be at the top of your list. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, rich feta cheese, and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, creating a meal that’s satisfying and sure to please family and friends.

Ingredients

• 2 cups penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow it to thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently mix until everything is well-combined.
3. Remove from heat and fold in the crumbled feta cheese.

Step 4: Bake

1. Transfer the creamy pasta mixture to a greased baking dish.
2. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Use high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor. If you can find it, opt for block feta and crumble it yourself.
• Pasta Variations: Feel free to substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rotini or ziti for a different texture.
• Chicken Alternatives: For a lighter option, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken. Just mix it in at the end.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a delightful vegetarian twist.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble the pasta bake, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Creamy Chicken Feta Pasta Bake with a crisp side salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the creamy texture beautifully.

Conclusion

The Creamy Chicken Feta Pasta Bake with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is not just a meal; it’s an experience full of rich flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing. The combination of creamy sauce, savory chicken, and tangy feta is a culinary delight that is both satisfying and relatively simple to prepare.

Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your culinary creations! For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, explore our other articles and discover new favorites for your kitchen.

For additional reading on cooking techniques and ingredient information, consider checking out The Kitchn or Serious Eats.

Happy cooking!