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

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If you’re after a pasta dish that delivers bold flavor with every bite, this Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta with Spicy Harissa Feta Cream & Roasted Asparagus Crisps will become your new weeknight hero. It’s where Mediterranean meets modern spice, and every forkful is creamy, savory, and just the right amount of fiery. Juicy marinated chicken, tangy feta, and a harissa-infused sauce wrap around tender noodles, while crispy asparagus adds that perfect crunch.

This dish isn’t just about big flavors. It’s about balance. The roasted asparagus crisps bring earthy notes that cool down the heat of the harissa, and the creamy feta sauce ties everything together like a warm culinary hug. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, this one packs enough flavor to leave a mark.

Why You’ll Love This Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta

This recipe turns your everyday pasta night into something memorable. The juicy grilled chicken seasoned with Greek herbs takes just a little prep but feels gourmet. The harissa adds a spicy kick that’s bold but not overpowering, especially when mellowed by the creamy whipped feta base. And let’s talk about those asparagus crisps. They’re addictively crunchy and roast in no time. It’s a full sensory experience on one plate.

Plus, it’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. Most of this comes together in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights when you want something delicious but doable.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

This pasta is flexible, but short pasta shapes are your friend here. Think penne, rigatoni, or farfalle. These shapes hold onto the creamy sauce better, giving you flavor in every bite. If you prefer something lighter, orzo can work too, creating a risotto-style version that feels ultra-cozy. For a gluten-free option, choose a chickpea or lentil-based pasta that can hold up to the rich sauce and won’t fall apart.

Ingredients for the Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta

This recipe brings together vibrant Greek flavors with a bold spicy twist. The ingredients are all about layering flavor and texture—from the herby chicken to the creamy feta base and the roasted asparagus topping. While the list might look detailed, each element plays a specific role in building depth and deliciousness.

• Chicken breast
• Greek yogurt
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves
• Harissa paste
• Feta cheese
• Cream cheese
• Lemon juice
• Pasta (penne or rigatoni)
• Asparagus
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Dried oregano
• Paprika
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

The chicken breast is marinated for extra tenderness and flavor. Greek yogurt not only tenderizes the meat but also gives it a light tang. Olive oil helps everything cook evenly and adds that Mediterranean richness. Fresh garlic is a must here for that aromatic base. The harissa paste brings bold heat and spice that transforms the dish. Creamy feta cheese and cream cheese blend into a dreamy sauce that’s both sharp and smooth. A splash of lemon juice brightens it all. You’ll want a pasta like penne that grabs all that sauce. Finally, asparagus gets roasted to a crisp for a fresh, crunchy topping, while salt, black pepper, oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes round out the flavor.

How To Make the Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breast with the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight if you have time.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for the sauce.

Step 3: Roast the Asparagus

Trim the asparagus and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast in the oven at 425°F for about 12-15 minutes until crispy. Let it cool slightly, then chop into bite-sized pieces or leave them whole for garnish.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated chicken on both sides until golden and cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.

Step 5: Make the Harissa Feta Cream

In a small blender or food processor, blend together feta cheese, cream cheese, harissa paste, and a little lemon juice. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin it out to your preferred sauce consistency.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked pasta with the harissa feta cream until well-coated. Add the sliced chicken and stir gently. Top with roasted asparagus crisps and an optional sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like it extra spicy. Serve warm.

How to Serve and Store Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta

This pasta is best served fresh while the harissa feta cream is warm and silky, the chicken still juicy, and the roasted asparagus crisps have that perfect crunch. A quick toss in the pan before serving will make everything meld together beautifully. It feeds about 4 people generously, making it great for a small dinner party or a flavorful family meal.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or water to loosen up the sauce. Keep the asparagus separate when storing, so you can crisp it back up in the oven or air fryer.

What to Serve With Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta?

H3: Cucumber Tomato Salad with Dill

A light and refreshing cucumber tomato salad tossed with lemon juice and fresh dill balances the richness of the pasta beautifully.

H3: Warm Pita Bread with Tzatziki

Serve warm pita slices alongside a bowl of cool, herby tzatziki for dipping or scooping up extra sauce.

H3: Roasted Garlic Hummus and Olives

Set out a mezze-inspired side of roasted garlic hummus, kalamata olives, and marinated artichokes for a Mediterranean-style spread.

H3: Lemon Roasted Potatoes

Add some crispy Greek-style roasted potatoes with lemon and oregano if you want to make it a heartier meal.

H3: Chopped Greek Salad

A classic mix of crisp lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta with a red wine vinaigrette is always a perfect match.

H3: Grilled Halloumi Skewers

Grilled halloumi with peppers and red onions makes a salty, chewy contrast to the creamy pasta.

H3: Sparkling Lemonade or Iced Herbal Tea

Cool things down with a pitcher of fresh sparkling lemonade or a glass of minty iced tea—a refreshing way to round out this spicy meal.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Kick?

If you love this bold Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta with its spicy creamy twist, here are some other flavor-packed dishes you should definitely check out:

• Try the ultra-comforting Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe when you want something cozy and rich.
• The Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta delivers quick creamy satisfaction with pantry staples.
• Looking for something unique? Go for Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce to get that cheesy, meaty indulgence.
• For a one-pot wonder, the One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is smoky, creamy, and incredibly easy.
• Don’t miss the Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta when you’re craving classic comfort with a beefy twist.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the harissa or keep it mellow? Did you switch up the pasta or add more crunch on top?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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