Name: Easy Baked Feta Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 15 ounces (453g) pasta; 2 pints cherry tomatoes (approx. 1 and 1/2 pounds); 2 to 4 cloves garlic, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 cups baby spinach; 8 ounces (225g) feta cheese block; Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving); 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 5 reviews

If you’ve been scrolling through recipe ideas and craving something both comforting and bursting with flavor, then you absolutely must try this Easy Baked Feta Chicken Pasta Recipe. This vibrant dish brings together the creaminess of baked feta with juicy cherry tomatoes, tender chicken, and herbaceous basil—all mingled with perfectly cooked pasta for a dish that’s not only delicious but unbelievably simple to make. Whether you’re feeding a busy weeknight crew or surprising guests, this recipe has a way of winning hearts with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white baking dish with red handles is placed on a white marbled surface. Inside the dish, there is a single block of white cheese in the center, surrounded by small round red cherry tomatoes lined evenly along the edges and scattered around the cheese. Small chunks of garlic are scattered near the tomatoes. The entire dish is coated with a light golden liquid, likely olive oil, and lightly sprinkled with herbs and black pepper. A few spinach leaves are visible in the upper left corner, outside the dish, with a striped white, brown, and black cloth on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients is the first joy of this recipe, as each component plays a vital role in delivering layers of bright flavor, satisfying texture, and inviting color to your plate.

Pasta (15 ounces): The foundation for the dish, choose your favorite shape—penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work beautifully to capture sauce.
Cherry tomatoes (2 pints): These sweet, juicy gems roast down into a wonderfully rich sauce that complements feta’s tang.
Feta cheese block (8 ounces): The star ingredient; baking it softens the cheese to a luscious, spreadable texture that coats the pasta perfectly.
Olive oil (1/2 cup): Helps to roast the tomatoes and feta while adding richness and depth.
Fresh basil (1/4 cup, chopped): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness that lifts the dish.
Garlic (2 to 4 cloves, chopped): Infuses the dish with a subtle warmth and aromatic punch.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all the flavors.
Cooked chicken (2 cups, chopped or shredded): Provides hearty protein, making the dish satisfying and complete.
Baby spinach (2 cups): Adds a lovely pop of green and gentle earthiness, plus extra nutrients.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For sprinkling on top, giving an extra cheesy finish and salty complexity.

How to Make Easy Baked Feta Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Roast the Tomatoes and Feta

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. In a baking dish about 9 by 13 inches, simply toss your cherry tomatoes with chopped garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re all coated in that fragrant, silky mixture. Now pop your block of feta right in the center—turn it over in a light coating of olive oil and sprinkle with black pepper. This magic moment is where the iconic creamy texture begins to develop. Bake everything for 35 to 40 minutes, until the tomatoes erupt with juicy goodness and the feta becomes soft and golden. The aroma filling your kitchen will tell you exactly that it’s time for the next step.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Al Dente

While the feta and tomatoes mingle in the oven, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta following package instructions, aiming for al dente texture—it’s the perfect balance of tender but still with a bite. Before draining, reserve about a cup of the pasta water. This starchy liquid will later help marry everything together into a silky sauce that clings beautifully to every noodle.

Step 3: Combine Fresh Ingredients and Chicken

Once your baking dish comes out of the oven, add fresh basil leaves, baby spinach, and chopped or shredded cooked chicken directly to the piping hot mixture. Stir gently to start welcoming those fresh herbs and greens into the warm cheesy tomato blend, allowing spinach to wilt ever so slightly while the chicken absorbs those savory flavors.

Step 4: Mix Pasta and Finish the Sauce

Next, add your drained pasta to the tomato and feta mixture. Use a wooden spoon or fork to thoroughly combine—gently breaking up the baked feta and squishing some of the tomatoes while leaving others whole for lovely bursts of flavor and texture. If the sauce seems a bit thick, add some reserved pasta water a spoonful at a time until you reach your ideal consistency. This step creates a luscious and creamy coating that ties every element together perfectly.

How to Serve Easy Baked Feta Chicken Pasta Recipe

The image shows a bowl of creamy penne pasta layered with light yellow pasta tubes mixed with wilted dark green spinach leaves and small pieces of white chicken. Bright red sun-dried tomatoes add pops of color scattered throughout the dish. The pasta is coated in a smooth cream sauce and topped with thin, shredded white cheese. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a spoon resting inside the bowl. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finishing touches really elevate this dish from delicious to unforgettable. Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top for a touch of saltiness and additional depth. A few extra fresh basil leaves or even some red pepper flakes can add both vibrant color and a slight kick for adventurous eaters.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides like a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or buttery garlic bread that complements the creamy texture of the feta sauce. Roasted vegetables or a light cucumber salad are also fantastic for adding refreshing contrast and balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls and garnish each with a sprig of basil and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. You can also place the baking dish itself on the table for a rustic, family-style meal where everyone can help themselves to that delicious baked feta chicken pasta magic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen beautifully when rested overnight, making for an even tastier meal the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover baked feta chicken pasta, but keep in mind that the texture of the spinach might change slightly. To freeze, place the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it feels too thick. This helps restore the creamy consistency without drying out the chicken or pasta.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While sturdy pasta shapes like penne or fusilli work best to hold the sauce, feel free to use your favorite variety. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken and perhaps add extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for hearty texture and flavor.

What type of feta cheese works best?

Use a good quality block of feta in brine for the best melting and creamy texture. Avoid pre-crumbled feta, as it doesn’t bake as smoothly.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the roasted tomato and feta base in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready, reheat and mix in fresh basil, spinach, chicken, and pasta for a quick meal.

How spicy is this dish?

This Easy Baked Feta Chicken Pasta Recipe is mild by default, but you can easily add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to suit your preferred spice level.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Baked Feta Chicken Pasta Recipe absolutely deserves a spot in your weeknight rotation or special occasion menu. It’s a recipe that feels effortlessly impressive yet takes minimal effort, making it the perfect way to bring family and friends together over a bowl of warm, cheesy, tender chicken and tomato bliss. Go ahead and try it for yourself—you just might find your new favorite comfort food!