Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta
Discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta recipe. Combining wholesome whole wheat pasta with tender diced chicken, briny Kalamata olives, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy crumbled feta, this dish brings a burst of fresh, savory goodness to your dinner table. It’s a quick, nourishing, and colorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. The addition of dried oregano and fresh parsley enhances the authentic Greek flavor profile, making every bite a delight. Plus, this recipe is straightforward and uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Top Reasons to Make Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta
- Wholesome and Nutritious: Using whole wheat pasta adds fiber and nutrients, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an ideal recipe for busy days when you want something delicious without the fuss.
- Flavor-Packed: The salty Kalamata olives and creamy feta cheese deliver authentic Greek taste that’s both bold and balanced.
- Versatile: Perfect as a family dinner, meal prep for the week, or even a light lunch. It pairs well with a simple green salad or warm pita bread.
- Protein-Packed: The diced chicken breast provides lean protein to keep you energized and satisfied.
What You’ll Gather
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta – your base for a hearty, fiber-rich dish
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced – for lean protein
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – adds healthy fats and helps sauté ingredients
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – for aromatic depth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – juicy sweetness and vibrant color
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced – salty, briny flavor
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled – creamy, tangy topping
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – classic Greek herb seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – adds freshness and color
Appliances & Accessories
- Large pot – to boil the pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking the chicken and vegetables
- Colander – to drain pasta
- Knife and cutting board – for prepping chicken and vegetables
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the ingredients
- Measuring spoons – for precise seasoning
Directions: Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta
Step 1: Cook the Whole Wheat Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of whole wheat pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta water to loosen the sauce later if needed.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon dried oregano. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with the sliced Kalamata olives. Stir to combine and warm through for another 2 minutes. Then toss in the cooked whole wheat pasta. If the mixture feels dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 5: Finish with Feta and Parsley
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the pasta. Toss gently to combine, allowing the feta to soften slightly but not melt completely. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta warm, accompanied by a crisp green salad or some warm bread. This dish pairs beautifully with a refreshing side like a Greek Orzo Salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
- Chicken: Substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for extra juiciness or use turkey breast for a leaner option.
- Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta if needed or swap whole wheat for regular semolina pasta for a lighter texture.
- Cheese: If you don’t have feta, try goat cheese or ricotta salata for a similar tangy flavor.
- Olives: Green olives can replace Kalamata olives if you prefer a milder briny flavor.
- Herbs: Fresh oregano or thyme can be used instead of dried oregano for a more vibrant herbal note.
What Not to Do
- Do not overcook the whole wheat pasta; it can become mushy and lose its pleasant bite.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking chicken to ensure it browns nicely instead of steaming.
- Don’t skip reserving pasta water; it’s key to adjusting the sauce consistency perfectly.
- Refrain from adding feta too early while cooking, as it can melt and lose its crumbly texture.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chicken separately for up to 3 months. To freeze, cool the chicken completely, store it in an airtight container, and thaw it in the fridge before reheating. The pasta with fresh tomatoes and feta doesn’t freeze well due to texture changes, so prepare those components fresh when possible.
Quick Questions
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the diced chicken breast with chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms to maintain protein and texture while keeping it vegetarian.
Is whole wheat pasta necessary?
Whole wheat pasta adds fiber and a nutty flavor, but you can use your favorite pasta type based on preference or dietary needs without compromising the dish’s essence.
How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe is mild and focuses on savory and tangy Mediterranean flavors. If you like some heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried oregano?
Yes, fresh oregano is a great substitute. Use about 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh oregano instead of 1 teaspoon dried to maintain flavor balance.
Our Most-Loved Recipes
- Creamy White Pesto Chicken Pasta – a luscious pasta dish with a creamy, herby sauce
- Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders – quick and flavorful chicken perfect for weeknights
- Greek Orzo Salad – a fresh, tangy side that complements Mediterranean meals beautifully
Next Steps
Ready to bring the tastes of Greece to your kitchen? Gather your ingredients and enjoy the process of crafting this delightful Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta. Don’t forget to explore other Mediterranean-inspired dishes to expand your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy, like the Creamy White Pesto Chicken Pasta, or something quick and packed with flavor like the Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders, there’s a delicious recipe waiting for you.
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Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of whole wheat pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta water to loosen the sauce later if needed.
- While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon dried oregano. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with the sliced Kalamata olives. Stir to combine and warm through for another 2 minutes. Then toss in the cooked whole wheat pasta. If the mixture feels dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the pasta. Toss gently to combine, allowing the feta to soften slightly but not melt completely. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Serve your Greek Chicken Pasta with Olives and Feta warm, accompanied by a crisp green salad or some warm bread. This dish pairs beautifully with a refreshing side like a Greek Orzo Salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
- Do not overcook whole wheat pasta to maintain a pleasant bite.
- Freeze cooked chicken separately if meal prepping; avoid freezing pasta with fresh tomatoes and feta.
