Ceramic matrix composite articles include, for example, a plurality of unidirectional arrays of fiber tows in a matrix having a monomodal pore size distribution, and a fiber volume fraction between about 15 percent and about 35 percent. The articles may be formed by, for example, providing a shaped preform comprising a prepreg tape layup of unidirectional arrays of fiber tows, a matrix precursor, and a pore former, curing the shaped preform to pyrolyze the matrix precursor and burnout the pore former so that the shaped preform comprises the unidirectional arrays of fiber tows and a porous matrix having a monomodal pore size distribution, and subjecting the cured shaped preform to chemical vapor infiltration to densify the porous matrix so that the ceramic matrix composite article has a fiber volume fraction between about 15 percent and about 35 percent.