Creamy Chicken Feta Pasta Bake with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Indulge in a delightful culinary experience with this Creamy Chicken Feta Pasta Bake with Sun-Dried Tomatoes. This dish is a perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy feta, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, all enveloped in al dente pasta. It’s ideal for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering, and the leftovers are just as delicious. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Ingredients

To create this delicious Creamy Chicken Feta Pasta Bake, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta Bake:

• 12 oz (340g) penne pasta (or your preferred pasta)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably in oil)
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup spinach, fresh or frozen (thawed and drained)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (for topping)

For Garnish:

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Additional crumbled feta (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Mixture

3. Mix the ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, heavy cream, chicken broth, spinach, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Creamy Mixture

4. Combine: In a large baking dish, add the drained pasta. Pour the creamy chicken mixture over the pasta and gently mix until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Bake the Dish

5. Top with mozzarella: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the pasta mixture.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

7. Garnish: Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and additional crumbled feta if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Feta Pasta Bake

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for the best flavor. Fresh spinach adds a vibrant touch, but frozen spinach can work too if you ensure it’s well-drained.

• Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is convenient and adds a depth of flavor. Alternatively, you can grill or pan-cook chicken breasts and shred them for a fresh taste.

• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to boost the nutritional value and flavor profile.

• Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a less creamy dish, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute half and half or whole milk.

• Make It Ahead: This pasta bake can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your meal, consider serving this creamy pasta bake with a light side salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette. A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the dish, highlighting the flavors of the feta and sun-dried tomatoes.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and bulk up the dish with more vegetables like artichokes, bell peppers, or broccoli. You can also add chickpeas for protein.

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta, ensuring it’s cooked al dente for the best texture.

• Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free cream alternative and a vegan feta cheese substitute for a delicious dairy-free option.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Feta Pasta Bake with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a versatile dish that is sure to impress family and friends. Its creamy texture, combined with the savory notes of chicken and tangy feta, creates a comforting meal that everyone will love. Experiment with the ingredients and make it your own!

For more culinary inspiration, explore our other recipes and cooking tutorials on our site. We encourage you to share this recipe with friends or try your hand at making it for your next gathering. Happy cooking!