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

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Looking for something vibrant, spicy, and packed with Mediterranean flavor? This Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta with Spicy Harissa Feta Cream & Roasted Asparagus Crisps delivers bold taste in every bite. The creamy harissa-spiked feta sauce clings to tender pasta, while the juicy marinated chicken offers tangy and herby depth. Paired with crisp-tender asparagus that roasts to golden perfection, this dish is a total flavor bomb.

Perfect for weeknights but elegant enough for a dinner party, this recipe balances heat and creaminess, freshness and indulgence. Every component brings something special: garlicky lemon-marinated chicken, smoky harissa, creamy feta, and the crunch of asparagus crisps that feel more like a chef’s garnish than a side. It’s a pasta dish that feels layered and exciting from start to finish.

Why You’ll Love This Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta

If you’re tired of boring chicken pasta, this one brings the Greek sunshine straight to your plate. The spicy feta cream is dreamy and rich, but the harissa adds fire and character. Roasted asparagus isn’t just a veggie side here—it plays a starring role with texture and flavor contrast. Altogether, this recipe nails the balance between indulgence and brightness, with Mediterranean flair in every forkful.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best with Harissa Feta Sauce?

Short-cut pasta like rigatoni, penne, or fusilli are ideal for this dish. Their ridges and curves hold onto the luscious harissa-feta sauce beautifully, giving you a creamy, spicy punch in every bite. That said, you can absolutely use spaghetti or linguine if that’s what you have on hand—just swirl with gusto to coat every strand thoroughly.

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

The beauty of this dish lies in its flavorful yet approachable ingredients. Each component contributes something unique—from the creamy, tangy base to the spicy undertones and fresh vegetables. Quality ingredients make all the difference here, so don’t be afraid to splurge a little on your feta or olive oil.

• Chicken breast: The protein star of this dish, marinated in Greek flavors for tenderness and zing.
• Greek yogurt: Helps tenderize the chicken and adds tangy richness.
• Lemon juice & zest: Brightens up the marinade and sauce.
• Garlic: Infuses aromatic depth into the chicken and sauce.
• Olive oil: Used in both the marinade and to roast the asparagus crisps.
• Asparagus: Roasted until crisp-tender for a slightly crunchy, vegetal counterpoint.
• Feta cheese: The creamy, salty base of the sauce that blends beautifully with the harissa.
• Harissa paste: A North African chili paste that adds smoky heat and bold complexity.
• Pasta (rigatoni or penne): Ideal shapes for catching the creamy sauce in every bite.
• Heavy cream: Softens the feta and brings silkiness to the sauce.
• Fresh herbs (dill or parsley): Optional but excellent for garnish and fresh contrast.

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

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and olive oil in a bowl. Coat the chicken breasts and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Roast the Asparagus

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss asparagus with olive oil and a pinch of salt. Spread out on a baking sheet and roast for 15 to 20 minutes until the edges are golden and crispy.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Grill or sear the marinated chicken in a skillet until cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.

Step 4: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta to al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 5: Make the Harissa Feta Sauce

In a saucepan, melt crumbled feta with heavy cream and a tablespoon (or more if you love spice) of harissa paste. Stir until smooth. Add a splash of pasta water to loosen if needed.

Step 6: Combine and Toss

Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss gently to coat. Stir in the chicken slices. Top with roasted asparagus crisps and fresh herbs before serving.

How to Serve and Store Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta

This pasta dish shines brightest when served fresh, hot, and creamy. Right after combining the pasta with the harissa feta sauce and topping it with the grilled chicken and crispy asparagus, get it to the table quickly for the best flavor and texture experience. It feeds about four people generously, making it a perfect dinner for a small gathering or a lively family meal.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to loosen up the sauce. While the asparagus won’t retain its crispiness after storage, it will still bring flavor and fiber to your reheated bowl.

What to Serve With Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta?

Greek Village Salad

A simple mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of oregano pairs naturally with the Greek-inspired flavors of the pasta.

Garlic Flatbread

Soft, chewy flatbread brushed with garlic butter adds the perfect swipe-through option for the creamy harissa sauce.

Tzatziki Dip with Pita Chips

A cooling yogurt-cucumber dip offers a refreshing contrast to the spicy undertones of the pasta.

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

This smoky, earthy spread works beautifully as a starter or side and keeps the Mediterranean theme alive.

Lemon Couscous

If you’re serving a crowd and want a second grain, lemony couscous with herbs complements the pasta without competing for flavor.

Grilled Halloumi

Thick slices of this salty cheese pan-fried or grilled until golden give a savory bite that balances well with the creamy pasta.

White Wine

A chilled glass of dry white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or Assyrtiko enhances the citrus and herby notes in the dish.

Citrus Sparkling Water

For a non-alcoholic pairing, try citrus-infused sparkling water with fresh mint for a crisp and clean finish to your meal.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If this bold and creamy Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta hit the spot, you’ll definitely want to explore more recipes that transform simple pasta into something truly special:

• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni when you want comfort with a rich, garlicky punch.
• Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta for a fast weeknight dinner that doesn’t hold back on spice.
• Creamy Mushroom Ravioli if you’re craving something earthy and indulgent.
• Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for a flavor bomb with buttery heat.

Each one puts a creative spin on traditional comfort, keeping things fresh and exciting.

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Tried it? Let me know how spicy you went with the harissa or if you swapped asparagus for another roasted veggie.

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Conclusion

Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta with Spicy Harissa Feta Cream & Roasted Asparagus Crisps is a bold, exciting dinner that brings Mediterranean spice and creamy comfort together in one glorious bite. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, this dish is a standout. With roasted vegetables, a fiery kick, and a sauce that coats every bite just right, it’s a pasta night that goes far beyond basic.

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