Jamie Oliver’s Greek Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and vibrant dish that brings together the fresh ingredients and bold flavors of Greek cuisine. This recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken with classic Mediterranean ingredients like olives, tomatoes, feta cheese, and fresh herbs, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Fresh Mediterranean Flavors: Combines the rich flavors of Greece with pasta for a comforting and healthy dish.
- Easy to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
- Balanced and Nutritious: A well-rounded meal with protein, fresh vegetables, and whole grains.
- Versatile: This can be customized with your favorite vegetables and herbs.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sharing at family dinners or casual gatherings.
Other Jamie Oliver Recipes
- Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Chicken Pasta
- Jamie Oliver Chicken and Mushroom Puff Pie
- Jamie Oliver Chicken Pie 30-Minute Meals
What is Jamie Oliver’s Greek Chicken Pasta?
Jamie Oliver’s Greek Chicken Pasta is a delicious pasta dish inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean. It features grilled or sautéed chicken seasoned with herbs, mixed with pasta, and tossed with a light olive oil sauce, tomatoes, olives, and topped with creamy feta cheese. The dish is bursting with flavor and can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion.
Jamie Oliver Greek Chicken Pasta Ingredients
- 300g (10.5 oz) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for cooking the chicken)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 200g (7 oz) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 100g (3.5 oz) black olives, pitted and sliced
- 100g (3.5 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 handful fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Greek Chicken Pasta
Step 1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2. Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Step 3. Prepare the Vegetables
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed and sauté the chopped red onion for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
Step 4. Combine the Pasta and Chicken with the Vegetables
Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the sautéed onions and tomatoes. Toss to combine, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce. Stir in the sliced chicken and sliced olives.
Step 5. Add the Finishing Touches
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley (or basil). Toss the pasta gently to coat everything in the dressing. Crumble the feta cheese over the top and give the dish a final toss.
Step 6. Serve
Serve the Greek chicken pasta immediately, garnished with extra parsley or basil if desired. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature.
What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Greek Chicken Pasta
- Greek Salad: Pair the pasta with a classic Greek salad of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a crunchy complement to the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, eggplant, or peppers make a perfect side dish.
- Crusty Bread: Enjoy with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
- Tzatziki Sauce: A dollop of tzatziki adds a creamy, refreshing contrast to the dish.
Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Greek Chicken Pasta
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil adds a bright, fresh flavor to the dish. Don’t skip it!
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the warm vegetables and chicken.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps create a light sauce and ensures the pasta doesn’t dry out.
- Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy and tender when sliced.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for more flavor and nutrition.
Variations of Jamie Oliver Greek Chicken Pasta
- Spicy Greek Chicken Pasta: Add red pepper flakes or fresh chili for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Greek Pasta: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or spinach.
- Creamy Greek Chicken Pasta: Stir in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or cream for a creamy twist.
- Herb-Marinated Chicken: Marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano for even more flavor.
- Grilled Chicken Option: Grill the chicken breasts for a smokier, grilled flavor.
How to Store Leftovers of Jamie Oliver Greek Chicken Pasta
- Refrigeration: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Although not recommended due to the fresh vegetables and feta cheese, you can freeze this dish for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Labeling: Always label your containers with the date to track freshness.
How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Greek Chicken Pasta Leftovers
- Stovetop: Reheat the pasta in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen it up if necessary.
- Microwave: Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
- Freshen it Up: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of extra feta to revive the flavors when reheating.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Greek Chicken Pasta is a vibrant, fresh, and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Greek cuisine to your dinner table. With tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and tangy feta, this pasta dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight meal or a casual weekend gathering, this dish is sure to please!
Can I freeze Jamie Oliver’s Greek Chicken Pasta?
While fresh ingredients like tomatoes and feta don’t freeze well, you can freeze the chicken and pasta portion of the dish. Thaw in the fridge overnight and add fresh veggies and cheese when reheating.
How long does Jamie Oliver’s Greek Chicken Pasta last in the fridge?
The pasta will last up to 3 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. Be sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Can I use other types of pasta in Jamie Oliver’s Greek Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta you like—penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I serve with Jamie Oliver Greek Chicken Pasta?
Serve this dish with a Greek salad, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a light tzatziki sauce for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
More Jamie Oliver Recipes
PrintJamie Oliver Greek Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying and simmering
- Cuisine: Greek
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Greek Chicken Pasta is a delicious pasta dish inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean. It features grilled or sautéed chicken seasoned with herbs, mixed with pasta, and tossed with a light olive oil sauce, tomatoes, olives, and topped with creamy feta cheese. The dish is bursting with flavor and can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion.
Ingredients
-
- 300g (10.5 oz) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
-
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
-
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for cooking the chicken)
-
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
-
- 1 lemon, juiced
-
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
-
- 200g (7 oz) cherry tomatoes, halved
-
- 100g (3.5 oz) black olives, pitted and sliced
-
- 100g (3.5 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
-
- 1 handful fresh parsley or basil, chopped
-
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
While the pasta is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed and sauté the chopped red onion for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the sautéed onions and tomatoes. Toss to combine, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce. Stir in the sliced chicken and sliced olives.
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley (or basil). Toss the pasta gently to coat everything in the dressing. Crumble the feta cheese over the top and give the dish a final toss.
Serve the Greek chicken pasta immediately, garnished with extra parsley or basil if desired. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature.