Chef Mitchell preparing Mediterranean Chicken Pasta
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Mediterranean Chicken Pasta recipe while traveling through Greece, where local chefs inspired me with their use of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. After perfecting the recipe over the years, I've crafted a dish that my family loves. It's a celebration of Mediterranean cuisine that brings everyone together at the dinner table. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do!"

With over a decade of experience in Mediterranean cuisine, Chef Mitchell has created countless recipes that showcase the vibrant flavors of this region. His passion lies in using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create healthy and delicious meals for families. Chef Mitchell loves sharing his culinary journey with others.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Mediterranean Chicken Pasta served on a plate

Why This Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Recipe Works

This Mediterranean Chicken Pasta recipe stands out due to its use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. The combination of juicy chicken, colorful vegetables, and a zesty dressing creates a delightful flavor profile that appeals to everyone. It's a simple, yet impressive dish that you can whip up for a weeknight meal or special occasion.

The technique of sautéing the chicken and vegetables together allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The addition of fresh herbs and lemon juice brightens the dish, making it light yet satisfying. Overall, this recipe is a perfect example of how Mediterranean cuisine balances health and taste.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best flavor, use high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs. Don't overcook the chicken to ensure it remains juicy and tender. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and feel free to add more vegetables based on what you have on hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare Mediterranean Chicken Pasta ahead of time. Cook the pasta and chicken, then store them separately in airtight containers. When ready to serve, simply reheat and mix with the sauce. This makes it convenient for meal prep or busy weeknights.

If you don't have black olives on hand, you can substitute them with green olives, capers, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor. Each option will add its own unique twist to the dish, while still maintaining that Mediterranean flair.

The Mediterranean Chicken Pasta is done when the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. The pasta should be al dente, meaning it's firm to the bite. You can also taste a small portion to check the seasoning and adjust if necessary.

Yes, Mediterranean Chicken Pasta can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.

Mediterranean Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with a light side salad dressed in vinaigrette, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a glass of chilled white wine for a more formal dining experience.

When stored in an airtight container, Mediterranean Chicken Pasta will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Ensure it is cooled before refrigerating to maintain its quality. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Yes, you can make this Mediterranean Chicken Pasta in advance. Prepare the dish and let it cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. It’s a great option for meal prep, allowing the flavors to develop even more. Just reheat it when you're ready to serve.

The best way to reheat Mediterranean Chicken Pasta is on the stove over medium heat. Add a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking and heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally for even heating.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your Mediterranean Chicken Pasta turns out dry, it may be due to overcooking or not enough sauce.

Solution: To fix this, add a splash of chicken broth or olive oil while reheating to moisten the pasta. Ensure you have enough sauce when cooking to keep the pasta well-coated.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the chicken isn't crispy, it might not have been seared properly.

Solution: Make sure to preheat the skillet well and avoid overcrowding the pan, allowing the chicken to sear and develop a golden crust.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked chicken can become tough and dry.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) and remove it from heat promptly.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: Undercooked chicken can pose health risks.

Recovery: If you notice undercooked chicken, return it to the skillet and cook it for a few more minutes until it is fully cooked through.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior can happen if the heat is too high.

Prevention: To prevent burning, cook on medium heat and watch the chicken closely. Adjust the heat as necessary while cooking.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to balance it.

Too Salty: Too salty? Rinse the pasta under warm water or add more fresh ingredients to dilute the saltiness.

Bland: If it's bland, enhance the flavor with more herbs, lemon juice, or spices.

Fresh ingredients for Mediterranean Chicken Pasta

Essential Ingredients for Mediterranean Chicken Pasta

The key ingredients in Mediterranean Chicken Pasta include high-quality chicken breasts, fresh vegetables like bell peppers and cherry tomatoes, and flavorful olives. Each ingredient contributes to the vibrant taste and overall texture of the dish.

When selecting ingredients, opt for fresh, seasonal produce to enhance the flavor profile. Using authentic Mediterranean ingredients like feta cheese and herbs can elevate the dish even further, ensuring a true Mediterranean experience.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken Breast: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for convenience and lean protein. Marinating them briefly in olive oil and spices can enhance their flavor and tenderness before cooking.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Use ripe cherry tomatoes for their sweetness and burst of flavor. They can be halved or left whole depending on your preference, and they add a beautiful color to the dish.
  • Black Olives: Opt for good quality, pitted black olives for the best flavor. They add a savory depth and Mediterranean flair to the pasta. You can also consider a mix of olives for added complexity.
Cooking process for Mediterranean Chicken Pasta

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Creating Mediterranean Chicken Pasta involves a straightforward process that combines cooking the chicken, sautéing the vegetables, and tossing everything together with pasta. Each step is designed to build layers of flavor while keeping the preparation simple.

Focus on cooking the chicken until golden brown and ensuring the vegetables remain crisp. The balance of textures and flavors will elevate your dish, making it a delightful addition to your dinner table.

Key Technique for Perfect Mediterranean Chicken Pasta

Searing the chicken at the right temperature is critical for achieving a juicy, flavorful result. Allow the chicken to rest after cooking to maintain its moisture before slicing, and always taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process.

Mediterranean Chicken Pasta

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup chicken broth
    Low sodium recommended
  • 1 lemon
    Juiced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley
    Chopped
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
    Optional for heat
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    For garnish

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 lb penne pasta
    Cooks well with sauce
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
    Halved
  • 1 cup black olives
    Pitted and sliced
  • 1 bell pepper
    Diced
  • 1 small red onion
    Diced
  • 3 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
    For sautéing
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
    For seasoning
  • 1 tsp salt
    To taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    To taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley
    Chopped
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese
    Crumbled, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. Cook Chicken

    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes, season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.

  3. Add Vegetables

    Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

  4. Mix in Other Ingredients

    Stir in the cherry tomatoes, black olives, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning as needed.

  6. Garnish and Serve

    Serve the pasta warm, topped with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley.

  7. Optional Toppings

    Add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor if desired.

  8. Enjoy!

    Enjoy your homemade Mediterranean Chicken Pasta with a side salad or crusty bread.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To properly store Mediterranean Chicken Pasta, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portion-sized containers.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mediterranean Chicken Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a refreshing white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to complement the flavors.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with this Mediterranean Chicken Pasta recipe by adding other vegetables such as zucchini or spinach. You can also swap out the chicken for shrimp or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.