Hearty Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

There’s something truly comforting about a warm, cheesy bake fresh from the oven. This Mediterranean chicken pasta bake is a perfect example — it combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and vibrant Mediterranean flavors into one satisfying dish. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy a hearty dinner.

this Recipe

You’ll love how the mix of sun-dried tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and herbs brings bright, savory notes to the creamy, baked pasta. Plus, this chicken pasta bake is easy to assemble and bakes up beautifully golden and bubbly, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Mediterranean flavors with olives, feta, and sun-dried tomatoes
• Hearty and filling enough for a comforting weeknight dinner
• One-dish meal that’s easy to prep and bake
• Perfect for leftovers or meal prep
• Customizable with your favorite veggies or pasta

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Mediterranean chicken pasta bake come together easily. Most items are pantry staples with a few fresh touches.

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approx. 480 per serving

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes, and sauté until chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 6-8 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Stir in marinara sauce and chicken broth, simmer for 3-4 minutes to blend flavors. Remove from heat.
6. Combine the cooked pasta with the chicken and sauce mixture in a large bowl. Stir in half of the crumbled feta and shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and feta evenly on top.
8. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges.
9. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh chopped basil before serving warm.

Tips for the Best Results

• Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook in the oven and stay perfectly tender.
• Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano to brighten the flavor just before serving.
• Try adding chopped spinach or artichoke hearts for extra veggies.
• For a spicier kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of smoked paprika.
• Leftover baked pasta tastes great re-crisped in the oven instead of the microwave.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This chicken pasta bake reheats beautifully either in the microwave or warmed up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

You can also freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne is great for holding the sauce, but rigatoni, rotini, or even shells work well in this bake. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when baked.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this chicken pasta bake is fantastic for meal prep. It keeps well in the fridge and can be portioned out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Can I substitute the chicken for another protein?

Definitely. You can swap the chicken for cooked ground turkey, sausage, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, omit the feta and mozzarella cheeses, or use your favorite dairy-free cheese alternatives that melt well. The flavors will still be delicious and true to the Mediterranean theme.