Greek Chicken Pasta Bake

The Mediterranean diet is widely celebrated for its delicious flavors and numerous health benefits, making it one of the most popular culinary traditions globally. Characterized by its vibrant ingredients and emphasis on fresh produce, whole grains, and lean proteins, Mediterranean cuisine not only tantalizes the taste buds but also promotes a healthy lifestyle. Among the many delightful recipes emerging from this rich culinary heritage, the Greek Chicken Pasta Bake stands out as a comforting and flavorful dish that encapsulates the essence of Mediterranean cooking.

Discover the delicious allure of Mediterranean cuisine with the Greek Chicken Pasta Bake. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and vibrant vegetables all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for family dinners, it's not only comforting but also packed with health benefits. The use of fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, spinach, and olives ensures a nutritious meal that aligns with the Mediterranean diet. Enjoy a culinary experience filled with flavor, comfort, and wholesome goodness.

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Ingredients

2 cups penne pasta

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1 cup fresh baby spinach, packed

1 ½ cups feta cheese, crumbled

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dish.

Cook the pasta: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Sauté the chicken: In a spacious skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Carefully add the diced chicken, seasoning it with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together until the onion becomes translucent, approximately 3-5 minutes. Next, incorporate the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes until they begin to soften.

Combine the ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add in the sliced olives, baby spinach, dried oregano, and dried basil. Cook the mixture for about 2 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted down.

Mix in sauce and pasta: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet along with the cooked penne pasta. Gently mix everything together, ensuring that the pasta is well coated in the sauce. Finally, fold in the crumbled feta cheese for a burst of flavor.

Transfer to a baking dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and pour the pasta mixture into it. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly.

Top with mozzarella: Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta mixture, allowing it to create a delightful, cheesy crust as it bakes.

Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is melted and bubbling.

Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for an added touch of color.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 6 servings

- Presentation Tips: Serve in individual portions and drizzle with a little extra olive oil for richness. Sprinkle extra feta on top for garnishing. Enjoy a lovely Mediterranean vibe with fresh lemon wedges on the side for an added zing!