Description
Craving something creamy but bold? This *Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta with Spicy Harissa Feta Cream & Roasted Asparagus Crisps* blends smoky harissa heat with the tangy richness of feta in a velvety sauce that clings to every bite of rigatoni. Golden-seared chicken adds protein and flavor, while crispy roasted asparagus gives a crunch you’ll be obsessed with. This dish is perfect for a quick dinner idea, a cozy weekend meal, or a healthy snack-style meal prep with Mediterranean flair. Loaded with protein, vibrant flavors, and easy-to-find ingredients, it’s one of the best food ideas when you want something fast but unforgettable.
Ingredients
350g rigatoni pasta
2 chicken breasts
1 tablespoon harissa paste
150g feta cheese
1 cup heavy cream
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 bunch asparagus, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat asparagus dry, toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Roast for 20–25 minutes until crisp.
3. Heat a skillet on medium-high. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Let rest, then slice thinly.
4. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
5. In a saucepan, sauté garlic in olive oil. Add harissa paste, stir for a minute, then pour in cream. Simmer gently. Add crumbled feta and whisk until smooth.
6. Stir cooked pasta into the sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
7. Plate the pasta, top with sliced chicken, and finish with roasted asparagus crisps. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Pat asparagus dry before roasting for maximum crispiness.
Use room-temperature ingredients for a smooth sauce, especially the feta.
Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency—it makes all the difference.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop + Oven
- Cuisine: Greek-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: easy dinner, creamy pasta, chicken recipe, harissa pasta, Mediterranean dinner, spicy cream sauce