Name: Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta with Spicy Harissa Feta Cream & Roasted Asparagus Crisps
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 Chicken breasts or thighs; 2 tablespoons Olive oil; 2 tablespoons Lemon juice; 2 Garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon Dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper; 8 ounces Rigatoni pasta; 3/4 cup Heavy cream; 1/2 cup Crumbled feta cheese; 1 tablespoon Harissa paste; 1 teaspoon Lemon zest; 1/4 cup Reserved pasta water; 1 bunch Asparagus, trimmed; 1 tablespoon Olive oil; 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup Grated parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon Onion powder

If you’re looking for a dinner that checks all the boxes—flavor-packed, creamy, spicy, and satisfyingly crispy—this Zesty Greek Chicken Pasta with Spicy Harissa Feta Cream & Roasted Asparagus Crisps is your new weeknight hero. It takes inspiration from bold Mediterranean flavors while layering in the comfort of a creamy pasta and the heat of harissa. What you get is a dinner plate that feels gourmet but comes together easily.

The chicken is marinated in classic Greek seasonings, then seared to juicy perfection. The pasta gets coated in a luscious harissa-feta cream sauce that’s both spicy and tangy. And the side of roasted asparagus crisps? Think green fries with a golden crunch. This dish looks impressive but is built with pantry staples and a bit of strategic seasoning magic.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work beautifully here. Thighs provide more moisture and rich flavor, while breasts give you a leaner option that crisps up well when pan-seared. Just be sure to slice them thinly or pound them for even cooking.

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

Chicken breasts or thighs: Marinated in lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and olive oil for a bright, herby flavor base.
Rigatoni pasta: A hearty pasta that holds onto the creamy harissa sauce perfectly.
Harissa paste: Brings the signature smoky heat that kicks up the flavor.
Feta cheese: Creamy and tangy, it melts into the sauce to balance the spice.
Heavy cream: Used to create a rich, velvety base for the sauce.
Asparagus: Trimmed and roasted until crispy for a fresh, crunchy side.
Breadcrumbs + parmesan: Coating for the asparagus crisps to give them that irresistible crunch.
Garlic and onion powder: Season the asparagus and boost the chicken’s flavor.
Lemon zest: Adds brightness to both the sauce and the chicken.

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

Step 1: Marinate and Cook the Chicken

Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes. Pan-sear the chicken over medium-high heat until golden and fully cooked, then slice.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Harissa Feta Cream Sauce

In a saucepan, heat heavy cream and stir in crumbled feta, harissa paste, lemon zest, and a splash of pasta water. Let it simmer until smooth and thickened. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss well.

Step 4: Roast the Asparagus Crisps

Preheat oven to 425°F. Dip trimmed asparagus spears in olive oil, then coat with a mix of breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic powder, and onion powder. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15–20 minutes until golden and crisp.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Serve the creamy harissa pasta topped with sliced Greek chicken and a handful of crispy asparagus. Garnish with extra lemon zest or parsley if you like a pop of green.

Serving and Storing This Mediterranean-Inspired Dinner

This dish is best served warm, right after everything is cooked so you get the crisp asparagus and velvety pasta sauce at their peak. For gatherings or meal prep, you can keep the components separate and reheat gently when ready to serve.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and pasta over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. Asparagus crisps are best fresh but can be reheated in a toaster oven for crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is the harissa feta cream sauce?

It depends on the harissa brand you use. Some are mild, others bring serious heat. Start with less and add more to your taste.

Can I use another cheese instead of feta?

Goat cheese is a nice swap for a creamy tang, or even ricotta for a softer flavor. Avoid mozzarella or cheddar, as they don’t melt into the sauce the same way.

What pasta can I substitute for rigatoni?

Penne, fusilli, or even pappardelle would work well. Choose a shape that catches the creamy sauce.

Is there a dairy-free version of this sauce?

Yes! Use coconut cream or cashew cream and skip the feta. Add a splash of lemon juice to keep the tang.

Can I grill the chicken instead?

Absolutely. Grilled chicken adds smoky depth that plays beautifully with the harissa.

What can I use instead of asparagus?

Zucchini sticks or green beans roasted the same way will give a similar crispy edge.

Want More Mediterranean-Inspired Dinner Ideas?

If this creamy, spicy pasta is calling your name, you might also love these delicious meals:

Try the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for a cozy twist on tortellini.
Check out Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet for something rich and ultra savory.
The One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is perfect when you want bold flavors and minimal cleanup.
Get your greens in with this Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowl with Creamy Garlic Sauce.
Or, dive into this comforting Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce that never disappoints.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you dial up the harissa or keep it mild? Maybe added roasted cherry tomatoes or kalamata olives?

I love seeing your delicious twists. Don’t forget to tag me and follow on Pinterest @hallarecipes for more weeknight flavor bombs from Life with Jam!

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

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A bold, flavor-packed Mediterranean-inspired dinner featuring marinated Greek chicken, creamy harissa-feta rigatoni, and crispy roasted asparagus. Spicy, tangy, and texturally perfect—ideal for weeknight indulgence or impressive entertaining.

Instructions

1. Marinate chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.

2. Cook the chicken in a hot skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown and fully cooked. Slice and set aside.

3. Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water and drain.

4. In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, feta cheese, harissa paste, lemon zest, and reserved pasta water. Simmer until creamy and smooth. Add pasta and toss to coat.

5. Preheat oven to 425°F. Coat asparagus in olive oil, then in a breadcrumb, parmesan, garlic powder, and onion powder mixture. Roast on a baking sheet for 15–20 minutes until crisp.

6. Serve pasta topped with sliced chicken and crispy asparagus. Garnish with lemon zest or parsley if desired.