🍝 Chicken Feta Pasta (Mediterranean-Style)
A creamy, savory pasta dish packed with juicy chicken, tangy feta cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is simple, comforting, and perfect for a quick family dinner while still feeling light and flavorful.
🧾 Ingredients
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250 g pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
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2 chicken breasts, diced
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2 tbsp olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
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½ tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp dried basil
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¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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¼ cup pasta cooking water
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)
👩🍳 Instructions
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Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve about ¼ cup of the pasta water before draining. -
Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside. -
Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 3–4 minutes until tomatoes soften. -
Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Pour in a little reserved pasta water and toss to combine. -
Add the Feta
Stir in the crumbled feta cheese. The heat will slightly melt it, creating a creamy texture. -
Finish the Dish
Add lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Toss gently and serve warm.
🌿 Mediterranean Serving Tips
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Drizzle extra olive oil before serving.
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Add spinach or olives for extra Mediterranean flavor.
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Serve with a fresh cucumber-tomato salad.
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I make this recipe healthier?
Yes. Use whole-wheat pasta and add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or broccoli.
Q: Can I substitute feta cheese?
You can use goat cheese, ricotta, or grated parmesan, but feta gives the dish its classic Mediterranean tangy flavor.
Q: Can I make it creamy without cream?
Yes. The feta cheese and pasta water create a light creamy sauce naturally.
Q: Can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or olive oil.
Q: Can I make it spicy?
Add extra red pepper flakes or a little chili paste for heat.
