Greek Chicken Spaghetti

Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this vibrant Greek Chicken Spaghetti. This dish combines the heartiness of classic pasta with the fresh, bold flavors of Greece, featuring succulent grilled chicken, tangy Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese. It is a perfect weeknight meal that feels like a seaside escape, offering a balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and zest.

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The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. By using high-quality olive oil and fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes and garlic, you create a light yet satisfying sauce that coats the spaghetti perfectly. The addition of red wine vinegar and lemon juice at the end provides a necessary acidity that makes every bite pop.

Ingredients

• Protein: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) spaghetti
• Vegetables: 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1/2 cup Kalamata olives (pitted and halved), 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• Cheese: 120 g (4 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
• Dressing: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar, Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Brush chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon olive oil, sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper.

Step 2

Grill the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Transfer to a plate, rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

Step 3

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.

Step 4

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic and red onion for 2 minutes until softened. Add cherry tomatoes and cook 3–4 minutes, until just softened.

Step 5

Add cooked spaghetti, olives, and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss well to combine and heat through, adding more olive oil if needed.

Step 6

Remove skillet from heat. Stir in lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and chopped parsley. Add sliced chicken and half the feta, tossing gently.

Step 7

Divide among plates, sprinkle with remaining feta and extra parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs 1 hour before grilling. This simple step ensures the protein is infused with aromatic Mediterranean flavors and remains tender during the cooking process.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly versatile; you can substitute traditional pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti as desired. For those who want more greens, tossing in a handful of fresh baby spinach at the end adds a boost of nutrition without changing the flavor profile significantly.

Serviervorschläge

To complete your meal, pair this Greek Chicken Spaghetti with a crisp Greek white wine such as Assyrtiko. The acidity of the wine perfectly complements the briny olives and tangy feta cheese, making for a sophisticated dining experience.

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Whether you are serving a family dinner or hosting friends, this Greek Chicken Spaghetti is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of the Aegean to your table. Enjoy the fresh, wholesome ingredients and the simple joy of a well-cooked Mediterranean meal.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can grill the chicken up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it. Slice it just before serving or toss it in with the warm pasta so it warms through gently.

→ What's the best way to grill the chicken evenly?

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before grilling to ensure uniform cooking. This prevents dry edges and undercooked centers. Grill over medium-high heat without moving them too often.

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely. Penne, linguine, or rigatoni work wonderfully with this sauce. Just adjust cooking time according to package directions and ensure it reaches al dente texture.

→ How do I prevent the feta from melting into the pasta?

Stir the feta in after removing the skillet from heat, and add it gently as the final step. This keeps the cheese from completely breaking down and maintaining its creamy, crumbly texture.

→ What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp Greek white wine like Assyrtiko complements the Mediterranean flavors beautifully. Its acidity balances the richness of the feta and olive oil while enhancing the fresh herbs.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, skip the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts. You can also include chickpeas or white beans for added protein and heartiness.