Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta

Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta is a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired dish packed with fresh flavors. This easy-to-make recipe features perfectly seasoned chicken breasts paired with fusilli pasta, marinated artichoke hearts, kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that’s great for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to casual gatherings.

Why This Greek Chicken Pasta is So Irresistible

The combination of juicy, herbed chicken, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese brings a burst of Mediterranean flavor in every bite. The tangy lemon vinaigrette ties everything together, giving this pasta dish a refreshing zest. It’s a light yet filling meal that’s perfect for warm weather but can be enjoyed year-round. The balance of protein, veggies, and carbs makes it a wholesome and satisfying dish that the whole family will love.

Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
  • 2 medium skin-on, bone-in chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh oregano
  • 2 small cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• For the Vinaigrette:
  • Juice of 2 lemons (about 1/4 cup)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
• For the Pasta:
  • 1 pound fusilli pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
  • 12 ounces marinated artichoke hearts, halved or quartered into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 1/2 cups pitted olives (kalamata or Mediterranean mix)
  • 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled or cut into small cubes
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano
  • Handful of chopped fresh parsley

---

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, chopped oregano, minced garlic, and lemon zest.
   • Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Sear the chicken breasts, skin-side down, for 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden brown.
   • Flip the chicken over and transfer the skillet to the oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove from the oven and let it rest.
2. Make the Vinaigrette:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Set the vinaigrette aside.
3. Cook the Pasta:
   • While the chicken is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Cook the fusilli pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes.
   • Drain the pasta and set it aside.
4. Assemble the Salad:
   • Once the chicken has rested, shred it into bite-sized pieces, discarding the skin and bones.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, marinated artichoke hearts, olives, feta cheese, and chopped oregano.
   • Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta mixture and toss everything together until well combined.
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
5. Serve:
   • Transfer the Greek chicken pasta to a serving platter or individual bowls.
   • Garnish with chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.
   • Serve chilled or at room temperature for a light, refreshing meal.

---

Key Ingredients for Perfect Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta

• Chicken Breasts: Skin-on, bone-in chicken adds extra flavor and juiciness to the dish. After roasting, the meat becomes tender and easy to shred.
• Fusilli Pasta: The spiral shape of fusilli pasta is perfect for holding the vinaigrette and the creamy feta cheese, making every bite flavorful.
• Olives: Kalamata or any Mediterranean mix of olives provides a briny, savory contrast to the rich chicken and creamy feta cheese.
• Feta Cheese: The tangy and salty feta cheese adds richness and authenticity to this Mediterranean-inspired dish.
• Lemon Vinaigrette: A tangy lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the chicken and cheese while adding a refreshing brightness to the salad.

---

Exploring Variations for Your Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra crunch and freshness.
• Use Different Pasta: If you don’t have fusilli, you can substitute it with penne, farfalle, or rotini.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Add a Protein Boost: If you want to make this dish heartier, add some cooked chickpeas or grilled shrimp for additional protein.

---

Tips for Perfect Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta Every Time

• Sear the Chicken Properly: Don’t skip the searing step! Browning the skin creates flavor and helps keep the chicken juicy.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh oregano and parsley enhance the flavor and brighten the dish. Dried herbs can work in a pinch, but fresh makes a big difference.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta al dente to ensure it holds up well when mixed with the sauce and other ingredients.

---

Nutritional Information for Health-Conscious Eaters

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for each serving of Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 463 kcal
• Fat: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 34g
• Fiber: 4g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 680mg
• Potassium: 600mg
• Vitamin A: 120IU
• Vitamin C: 25mg

For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cheese or use Greek yogurt instead of mayo in the dressing.

---

Storing and Reheating Your Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta

To Store:

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• This salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

To Reheat:

• If you prefer it warm, simply reheat it in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or heat it in a pan over low heat to avoid overcooking.

---

Serving Suggestions for Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta

This dish is perfect on its own as a light, satisfying meal. You can also serve it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread on the side for a complete Mediterranean-inspired feast.

---

Essential Cooking Tools and Equipment

For this recipe, you’ll need:

• Oven for roasting the chicken
• Large pot for cooking the pasta
• Skillet for searing the chicken
• Large mixing bowl for assembling the salad
• Knife and cutting board for chopping the ingredients

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! This dish actually tastes even better when made ahead, as the flavors have time to meld together. Just refrigerate it for up to 3 days and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just reduce the cooking time slightly, as they cook faster than bone-in breasts.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta, and you’ll have a gluten-free Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta that’s just as delicious!

---

Quick and Easy Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 medium chicken breasts
• 1 lb fusilli pasta
• 1 cup feta cheese
• 1 cup olives
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons fresh oregano

Instructions:

1. Roast the chicken and cook the pasta.
2. Toss the chicken, pasta, olives, and feta in a lemon vinaigrette.
3. Serve with fresh herbs.

---

Key Takeaways

Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta is a light, flavorful, and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of juicy roasted chicken, fresh herbs, tangy feta, and briny olives creates a Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s packed with flavor. It’s simple to prepare, and it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Print