Description
Enjoy the bright, tangy flavors of Zesty Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta. This easy Mediterranean-inspired dish features juicy chicken marinated in citrus and herbs, baked with cherry tomatoes, olives, and creamy feta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional for marinade)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. If using, add Greek yogurt for a richer marinade. Coat the chicken thoroughly and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
2. Prepare the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Sear the Chicken:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated chicken on each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Scatter sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes, and Kalamata olives around the chicken. Crumble feta cheese on top for a creamy, tangy finish.
5. Bake Until Tender:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and sprinkle fresh parsley on top. Serve hot with rice, quinoa, or a fresh Greek salad.
Notes
- Grilled Version: Grill the chicken over medium heat for a smoky char instead of baking.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for some heat.
- Dairy-Free Option: Omit the feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers or zucchini for more texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- marinate time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: main dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Keywords: Greek chicken, lemon chicken, feta chicken, Mediterranean chicken, baked chicken