Mediterranean Chicken Pasta: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

Mediterranean chicken pasta: just the name conjures images of sun-drenched coasts, vibrant flavors, and the simple joy of sharing a delicious meal. Imagine tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a medley of fresh vegetables tossed in a light, zesty sauce. Are you ready to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean without ever leaving your kitchen?

This dish isn’t just a recipe; it’s a celebration of the Mediterranean diet, known for its health benefits and emphasis on fresh, whole foods. The Mediterranean region, with its rich culinary history, has gifted us with countless dishes that are both nourishing and incredibly flavorful. This particular pasta dish draws inspiration from the region’s love of olive oil, herbs, and seasonal produce.

What makes Mediterranean chicken pasta so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The juicy chicken provides a satisfying protein, while the pasta offers a comforting base. The addition of vegetables like bell peppers, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes adds a burst of freshness and a delightful chewiness. But the real magic lies in the sauce – a simple yet vibrant blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs that ties everything together. It’s a dish that’s both elegant enough for a dinner party and easy enough for a weeknight meal. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to customize it with your favorite Mediterranean ingredients. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Pasta:
• 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work well)
• 8 oz sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained (reserve 2 tablespoons of the oil)
• 1 red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cored, seeded, and chopped
• 1 medium red onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can artichoke hearts, quartered
• 1 (6 oz) can Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Preparing the Chicken:

1. First, let’s get the chicken ready. In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Make sure all the pieces are nicely coated.
2. Now, add the dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them – I like a little kick!). Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it’s what gives the chicken its flavor!
3. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. You can let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature, or even longer in the fridge if you have the time. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be.

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
2. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and nicely browned on all sides. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure!
3. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. We’ll add it back in later.

Preparing the Pasta and Vegetables:

1. While the chicken is cooking, get your pasta going. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian – you want the pasta to be firm but not mushy.
2. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and set it aside. Don’t rinse it unless you’re not planning to add it to the sauce right away. Rinsing can remove some of the starch that helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
3. Now, let’s prepare the vegetables. In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken (don’t worry about cleaning it; those chicken bits will add flavor!), add the reserved 2 tablespoons of sun-dried tomato oil.
4. Add the chopped red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and red onion to the skillet. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to prevent them from burning.
5. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
6. Stir in the drained sun-dried tomatoes, quartered artichoke hearts, and halved Kalamata olives. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Assembling the Mediterranean Chicken Pasta:

1. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together to combine.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss again to coat the pasta with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Make sure everything is well combined.
3. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and chopped fresh basil. The feta will add a salty, tangy flavor, and the fresh herbs will brighten up the dish.
4. Squeeze the lemon juice over the pasta. The lemon juice will add a touch of acidity and balance out the richness of the dish.
5. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Serve immediately. This Mediterranean chicken pasta is delicious served hot. You can also let it cool slightly and serve it at room temperature.

Optional Additions and Variations:

• Spinach or Kale: Add a few handfuls of fresh spinach or kale to the skillet along with the vegetables. Cook until wilted.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Add halved cherry tomatoes for extra sweetness and acidity.
• Pine Nuts: Toast some pine nuts and sprinkle them over the pasta for added crunch.
• Different Cheese: Substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese or Parmesan cheese.
• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier dish.
• Grilled Chicken: Instead of pan-frying the chicken, you can grill it for a smoky flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Overcooked pasta will be mushy and unappetizing. Cook it al dente for the best texture.
• Use Good Quality Olive Oil: Good quality olive oil will add a richer flavor to the dish.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Season: Seasoning is key to a flavorful dish. Don’t be afraid to use salt, pepper, and other spices generously.
• Taste as You Go: Taste the pasta as you’re cooking and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs will add a brighter flavor to the dish than dried herbs.
• Let the Flavors Meld: Allow the flavors to meld together by cooking the pasta for a few minutes after adding all the ingredients.
• Serve Immediately: This pasta is best served immediately, but it can also be reheated.

Make Ahead Instructions:

• You can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the pasta and combine everything together.
• You can also make the entire dish ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. However, the pasta may become a little softer when reheated.

Storage Instructions:

• Store leftover Mediterranean chicken pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Conclusion:

This Mediterranean chicken pasta recipe is truly a game-changer, and I wholeheartedly believe it deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation. Why? Because it effortlessly combines fresh, vibrant flavors with a satisfying heartiness that appeals to everyone. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. The combination of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese creates a symphony of tastes that will transport you straight to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to adapt it to your own preferences and dietary needs. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts. If you’re looking to add a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes will do the trick. And for those who prefer a creamier sauce, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of heavy cream stirred in at the end will elevate the dish to a whole new level of indulgence.

Serving suggestions are endless! This pasta is fantastic on its own as a complete meal, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. You could also serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a roasted chicken for a more elaborate feast. For a lighter option, try serving it cold as a pasta salad – perfect for picnics or potlucks.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of pasta, too. While I personally love using penne or rotini, farfalle (bow tie) or fusilli (spirals) would work just as well. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try using whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious. The bright and bold flavors of the Mediterranean come alive in every bite, making it a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on some upbeat music, and get cooking! I promise you won’t regret it. This Mediterranean chicken pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor the simple pleasures of life, one delicious bite at a time.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Once you’ve tried this recipe, please come back and leave a comment below. Let me know what you thought, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. Share your photos on social media and tag me – I can’t wait to see your culinary creations! Happy cooking!

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July 4, 2025 by Melissa