Mediterranean Chicken Pasta

This Mediterranean Chicken Pasta is a delightful blend of tender chicken, ripe tomatoes, and al dente pasta, all tossed in a fragrant garlic and herb sauce. The addition of olives and feta cheese brings a creative twist while maintaining traditional Mediterranean flavors. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this dish is balanced, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making it a great choice for any home cook.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and olives, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
5. Combine the cooked pasta with the chicken and tomato mixture, tossing well to coat.
6. Remove from heat and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.