Chicken Feta Spinach Pasta

by

Introduction

This creamy chicken pasta with feta and spinach is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender chicken, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes come together in a rich, savory sauce with crumbled feta, creating a meal that’s both comforting and packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne or fusilli)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 chicken breasts, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes, cooking until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Pour in the reserved pasta water and stir to combine.
  6. Crumble the feta cheese over the pasta and add red pepper flakes if using. Toss everything together until well mixed and heated through.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil.

Notes

  • For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of cream cheese when mixing everything together.
  • Swap feta for goat cheese if you prefer a milder, creamier taste.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, fresh finish.
  • For a protein boost, use whole wheat pasta or add a handful of toasted pine nuts.

Helpful Tips

  1. Cook Pasta to Al Dente – Since the pasta will continue absorbing liquid when combined with the sauce, cooking it al dente prevents it from becoming too soft. Reserving pasta water helps bind everything together while maintaining a silky texture.
  2. Use Fresh Spinach for Best Results – Fresh spinach wilts beautifully into the sauce, adding a vibrant color and earthy flavor. If using frozen spinach, make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture diluting the dish.
  3. Sear the Chicken Properly – For the best texture and flavor, cook the chicken in a single layer without stirring too much. This allows it to develop a golden-brown crust, adding depth to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Pair with Garlic Bread – A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread or a toasted baguette complements the creamy texture of the pasta and enhances its Mediterranean flavors.
  2. Serve with a Fresh Salad – A crisp green salad with cucumbers, red onions, and a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the feta and olive oil in the pasta.
  3. Top with Extra Cheese and Herbs – A sprinkle of extra feta cheese and fresh basil just before serving boosts the dish’s creaminess and adds a fragrant, finishing touch.

Substitutions and Variations

  1. Swap the Protein – Instead of chicken, try using shrimp, salmon, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version while maintaining a high-protein meal.
  2. Use Different Greens – If spinach isn’t available, arugula, kale, or Swiss chard work well as alternatives, adding their own unique textures and flavors.
  3. Adjust the Heat Level – If you enjoy a spicy kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of spicy chili oil. For a milder taste, omit the red pepper flakes altogether.

Conservation and Storage

  1. Store Leftovers Properly – Place any leftover Chicken Feta Spinach Pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent excess condensation, which can make the dish watery.

  2. Reheat Gently for Best Texture – When reheating, use a low heat setting on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to bring back moisture. Avoid microwaving on high heat, as it can make the chicken tough and the feta cheese grainy.

  3. Freeze with Caution – While the pasta and chicken freeze well for up to 2 months, feta cheese and spinach can change in texture after freezing. If planning to freeze, consider adding fresh spinach and feta when reheating for the best taste and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Overcooking the Pasta – Cooking pasta too soft will make it mushy when combined with the sauce. Always cook it al dente, as it will continue absorbing liquid when mixed with the other ingredients.

  2. Adding Feta Too Early – If feta is added while the heat is too high, it can melt completely and lose its crumbly texture. To maintain its signature creamy, slightly tangy bite, add it at the end and gently mix.

  3. Skipping Reserved Pasta Water – The starchy pasta water helps create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta. If you drain all the pasta water without reserving some, the dish may turn out dry rather than creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    Yes! You can cook the pasta and chicken in advance and store them separately. When ready to serve, reheat them together on the stovetop, adding fresh spinach and feta for a just-made taste.

  2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
    Absolutely! Penne and fusilli work great, but you can also use farfalle, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are great options if needed.

  3. Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
    Yes! Swap feta cheese for dairy-free feta alternatives or add a splash of unsweetened coconut milk for creaminess without dairy. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor.

  4. What can I use instead of chicken?
    For a vegetarian version, try chickpeas, tofu, or mushrooms for a protein boost. Shrimp or salmon can also be used for a seafood twist.

Conclusion

This Chicken Feta Spinach Pasta is a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors, making it an easy yet elegant meal for any night of the week. The combination of tender chicken, wilted spinach, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy feta creates a satisfying dish that’s both nutritious and packed with Mediterranean flair.

With its simple preparation and quick cooking time, this pasta is ideal for busy weeknights, yet flavorful enough to impress guests. Plus, with plenty of ways to customize it whether by swapping proteins, adjusting spice levels, or using different greens you can easily make it your own.

Serve it up with warm garlic bread or a fresh salad, and enjoy a wholesome, restaurant-quality meal right at home. Let this dish become a go-to favorite in your kitchen! 🍽️✨

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Chicken Feta Spinach Pasta

  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
Print Recipe

Description

This creamy chicken pasta with feta and spinach is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender chicken, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes come together in a rich, savory sauce with crumbled feta, creating a meal that’s both comforting and packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne or fusilli)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 chicken breasts, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
  • Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
  • Stir in the fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes, cooking until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Pour in the reserved pasta water and stir to combine.
  • Crumble the feta cheese over the pasta and add red pepper flakes if using. Toss everything together until well mixed and heated through.
  • Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil.

Notes

  • For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of cream cheese when mixing everything together.
  • Swap feta for goat cheese if you prefer a milder, creamier taste.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, fresh finish.
  • For a protein boost, use whole wheat pasta or add a handful of toasted pine nuts.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 380 mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: Chicken Feta Spinach Pasta, creamy chicken pasta, Mediterranean pasta, feta cheese pasta, easy dinner recipes, stovetop pasta, healthy chicken pasta

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating ★☆ ★☆ ★☆ ★☆ ★☆