Delicious and Easy Mediterranean Baked Chicken with Pasta

This Mediterranean Baked Chicken with Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken with a medley of Mediterranean vegetables and tangy marinara sauce. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, then baked to perfection. Served over al dente pasta, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. It's easy to make and is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Give this recipe a try and transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 8 ounces penne pasta, cooked

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
4. Sprinkle the herb and spice mixture over the chicken, making sure to coat both sides.
5. Arrange the sliced bell peppers, red onion, and minced garlic around the chicken in the baking dish.
6. Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is well coated.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Remove the foil, sprinkle the Kalamata olives and feta cheese over the chicken, and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
9. While the chicken is baking, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
10. Serve the Mediterranean Baked Chicken over the cooked penne pasta, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

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