Name: Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta with Spicy Harissa Feta Cream & Roasted Asparagus Crisps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 225g rigatoni pasta; 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp salt (divided); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 100g asparagus, trimmed; 1 tsp harissa paste (for asparagus); 120g feta cheese; 3 tbsp Greek yogurt; 1 tbsp harissa paste (for sauce); 2 tbsp reserved pasta water; 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Get ready for a plate that brings sunshine straight to your table. This Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta is bursting with flavor, color, and creamy texture. Imagine juicy grilled chicken, fiery harissa-kissed feta cream, roasted asparagus crisps, and golden pasta that soaks in all that delicious sauce.

Inspired by Mediterranean vibes and bold spices, this dish is perfect for those who want a restaurant-level dinner made easy at home. It combines spice, creaminess, and char for a comforting yet energizing meal.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Short tube pasta like rigatoni or penne works beautifully here. Their hollow centers catch the harissa-feta sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti—they won’t hold the creamy sauce quite as well.

Ingredients for the Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta with Spicy Harissa Feta Cream & Roasted Asparagus Crisps

Chicken Breasts – Lean, protein-rich, and perfect for grilling. Sliced for quick cooking and charred flavor.
Rigatoni Pasta – Sturdy and ideal for holding creamy sauces in every tube.
Harissa Paste – A North African spice blend that adds heat and depth.
Feta Cheese – Tangy, crumbly cheese that balances the heat and gives the sauce body.
Greek Yogurt – Adds cool creaminess to the spicy feta mix.
Garlic & Onion Powder – Boosts savory notes without overpowering.
Asparagus – Roasted until crispy for a green, crunchy contrast.
Olive Oil – Used for roasting and grilling, bringing in Mediterranean richness.
Lemon Zest & Juice – Brightens and enhances the overall flavor.
Fresh Parsley – For that fresh, herby finish.

How To Make the Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta with Spicy Harissa Feta Cream & Roasted Asparagus Crisps

Step 1: Marinate and Grill the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes. Grill over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side until nicely charred and cooked through. Let it rest, then slice thinly.

Step 2: Roast the Asparagus Crisps

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Trim and toss asparagus with olive oil, a touch of harissa, and sea salt. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 15–20 minutes until crispy and golden.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Boil rigatoni according to package directions in salted water. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.

Step 4: Make the Spicy Harissa Feta Cream

In a blender or food processor, combine feta cheese, Greek yogurt, harissa paste, lemon juice, and a splash of pasta water. Blend until creamy and smooth. Adjust consistency with more water if needed.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return pasta to the pot, pour over the harissa-feta sauce, and stir to coat. Plate it up with grilled chicken on one side, a generous scoop of pasta, a dollop of the creamy sauce, and those crispy roasted asparagus spears for the ultimate Mediterranean-inspired bowl.

Serving and Storing Your Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta

Serve this dish hot and fresh, ideally as soon as everything is tossed together. The spicy cream sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, and the asparagus is crisp right out of the oven.

For leftovers, store each component separately if possible. The pasta and sauce can be kept in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. The asparagus can be re-crisped in a hot oven for a few minutes.

What to Serve With Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta?

Greek Salad

A classic choice that complements the bold flavors and keeps the Mediterranean theme going.

Warm Pita Bread

Perfect for scooping up extra sauce or enjoying alongside the grilled chicken.

Cucumber Dill Tzatziki

The cool, tangy yogurt sauce balances the harissa spice with refreshing contrast.

Lemon-Herb Roasted Potatoes

Add a satisfying starchy side if you’re hosting a dinner or need more substance.

Marinated Olives

Offer a briny bite that enhances the feta in the cream sauce.

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Slightly blistered tomatoes add bursts of sweetness to each plate.

Garlic-Herb Flatbread

Ideal for soaking up any sauce left behind.

A Crisp White Wine

A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the spicy and creamy components.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If this spicy Greek-inspired dish hit the spot, here are more flavor-packed pasta recipes you’ll love:

Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for a rich, comfort-style dinner.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta if you want something quick and satisfying.
Creamy Beef and Shells brings a weeknight-friendly twist to a hearty favorite.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a saucy, satisfying spin.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta if you want a viral classic with romantic flair.

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go heavy on the harissa or swap in a different pasta? Did you char the chicken on the grill or pan-sear it?

I love seeing your takes and swaps. Questions are always welcome too—let’s help each other create the most flavorful meals possible.

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