Greek Chicken Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with the fresh, bold flavors of the Mediterranean. This pasta is packed with ingredients like olives, feta cheese, tomatoes, and a hint of lemon, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for a busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces penne or your favorite pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the Garlic and Herbs:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the Vegetables:
- Add the cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the tomatoes begin to soften.
- Combine with Pasta and Chicken:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together to combine. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese, fresh parsley, lemon juice, and lemon zest. If the pasta seems dry, you can add a splash of pasta water or olive oil to loosen it up.
- Serve:
- Serve the Greek Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil and, if desired, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy this Greek Chicken Pasta as a light, refreshing, and flavorful dish that brings the tastes of the Mediterranean to your table!
