Mediterranean Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake
Indulge in this delightful Mediterranean-inspired pasta bake that brings together tender chicken, fresh spinach, juicy tomatoes, and savory feta cheese, all enveloped in a creamy sauce and baked to perfection. This dish marries the comforting flavors of macaroni and cheese with the vibrant tastes of Greek cuisine, making it a perfect centerpiece for family gatherings or casual dinner parties. Enjoy a wholesome meal that combines nutrition, flavor, and memorable moments around the table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
15
Ingredients
Ingredients
boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 (cut into 2 by 1/2-inch strips)
kosher salt
1 teaspoon
fresh ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon
all-purpose flour
1/4 cup
olive oil
2 tablespoons
finely chopped garlic
1 tablespoon (about 2 large cloves)
medium tomatoes
3 (diced (about 2 cups))
farafalle pasta
1 lb (bow-tie)
fresh spinach leaves
5 cups (washed and stems trimmed (about 8 oz. or 2 bunches))
chopped fresh oregano
1 1/2 tablespoons
dry white wine
2 cups (such as Chardonnay)
crumbled feta cheese
1 1/2 cups (about 7 oz.)
pitted kalamata olives
1 cup (or other black olives)
unsalted butter
2 tablespoons
grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (for garnish)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake?
It is a Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender chicken, fresh spinach, tomatoes, and feta cheese in a creamy sauce, combining comfort food with Greek flavors.
What cut of chicken should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 2 by 1/2-inch strips.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Farfalle pasta, also known as bow-tie pasta, is used for this bake.
How much pasta is required?
You will need 1 lb of farfalle pasta.
What kind of cheese gives this dish its Mediterranean flavor?
Crumbled feta cheese is the primary cheese used, providing a savory and tangy Mediterranean taste.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
The recipe specifies 5 cups of fresh spinach leaves, washed and stems trimmed, for the best results.
What type of wine is recommended for the sauce?
The recipe suggests 2 cups of dry white wine, such as Chardonnay.
How much garlic is needed?
You will need 1 tablespoon of finely chopped garlic, which is approximately 2 large cloves.
What kind of olives are included?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of pitted kalamata olives, though other black olives can be substituted.
How are the tomatoes prepared?
Three medium tomatoes should be diced, yielding about 2 cups.
What herbs are used for seasoning?
The dish is seasoned with 1 1/2 tablespoons of chopped fresh oregano.
Is there a garnish for this pasta bake?
Yes, 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese is used as a garnish.
What type of oil is used for cooking?
Two tablespoons of olive oil are used, staying true to the Mediterranean theme.
Is butter included in the ingredients?
Yes, the recipe includes 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
How is the chicken seasoned?
The chicken strips are seasoned with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper.
What is the purpose of the all-purpose flour?
The 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour is used to coat the chicken or thicken the sauce.
How much feta cheese is required?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups (about 7 oz.) of crumbled feta cheese.
Is this recipe suitable for a dinner party?
Yes, it is described as a perfect centerpiece for family gatherings or casual dinner parties.
What makes the sauce creamy?
The combination of butter, flour, wine, and feta cheese creates a creamy sauce that envelops the pasta.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 15 ingredients listed for this Mediterranean pasta bake.
What are the primary tags for this dish?
The main tags include pasta, chicken, spinach, Greek, feta, and Mediterranean.
Is this a comfort food dish?
Yes, it is described as a comfort food that marries macaroni and cheese style warmth with Greek flavors.
How much spinach do I need by weight?
You need about 8 oz. or 2 bunches of fresh spinach.
Should the olives be pitted?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for pitted kalamata olives.
What is the prep for the garlic?
The garlic should be finely chopped before adding it to the dish.
Can I use a different type of salt?
The recipe specifies 1 teaspoon of kosher salt.
Is this dish baked?
Yes, it is a pasta bake, meaning it is finished in the oven.
What is the texture of the chicken?
The chicken is described as tender and is cut into thin strips for even cooking.
Does this dish have a lot of vegetables?
Yes, it features 5 cups of spinach and 3 medium tomatoes.
What is the overall flavor profile?
The flavor profile is vibrant and savory, combining the saltiness of olives and feta with fresh herbs and tomatoes.