This Zesty Greek Chicken is a crunchy, tasty dish packed with bright flavors. Juicy chicken is cooked with zesty lemon and crumbly feta cheese, making each bite a little party for your taste buds!
I love serving this chicken with a simple salad. It feels fresh, and who can say no to that cheesy goodness? Plus, it’s so easy to whip up on a busy weeknight! 🍋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. For a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs. They stay juicy and add lots of flavor.
Cherry tomatoes: I love using a mix of colorful cherry tomatoes for a vibrant dish. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes can work in a pinch, but fresh is best!
Feta cheese: Feta adds a creamy tang to the dish. If you can’t find feta, try goat cheese for a similar taste or even queso fresco for a different spin.
Olive oil: This is essential for marinating. If needed, you can substitute with avocado oil or even a lighter oil like canola, but olive oil does add great flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is unbeatable, but minced garlic from a jar or garlic powder is a quick alternative if you’re in a hurry.
Lemons: Using fresh lemons is key for that zesty kick. If you’re out, bottled lemon juice will do, but fresh has a much brighter flavor.
How Do You Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating chicken is a great step to enhance its flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes in a bowl.
- Add the chicken to this mix, making sure it’s well-coated.
- Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, but if you can, aim for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. This allows the flavors to soak in deeply.
Also, remember not to skip the resting time after baking. It helps retain the juices, making your chicken more tender!
How to Make Zesty Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 lemons (1 juiced, 1 sliced)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (mixed colors if possible)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of baking time. If you choose to marinate the chicken overnight, you can enhance the flavors even more! Altogether, you’re looking at around 45 minutes, plus any extra time for marinating.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, set your oven to preheat at 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that it’s ready when your chicken is prepared!
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you’re feeling a little spicy!). Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or, if you have time, pop them in the refrigerator to marinate overnight. This will help the flavors soak in!
4. Arrange in the Skillet:
In a large oven-safe skillet, arrange the marinated chicken breasts. Then, take the cherry tomatoes and scatter them around the chicken in the skillet.
5. Add Feta and Lemon:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese generously over the chicken and cherry tomatoes. Place the lemon slices on top to add even more zing!
6. Bake the Chicken:
It’s time to bake! Put the skillet in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Let it Rest:
When it’s done, take the skillet out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will help keep the chicken nice and juicy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Just before serving, garnish with some fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor. Serve the zesty chicken warm, spooning the roasted tomatoes and feta over the top. It’s perfect alongside a side of rice or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use bone-in chicken, but the cooking time will increase. Make sure to bake it for about 35-40 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You might want to cover it with foil for the first 20 minutes to ensure it doesn’t dry out.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you don’t have feta on hand or prefer a different taste, try using goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture. For a dairy-free option, a crumbled tofu can also work, but it won’t have the same tangy flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a little water to keep the chicken moist as you warm it up.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or olives. Just chop them into similar sizes as the cherry tomatoes and add them to the skillet before baking. They will roast beautifully alongside the chicken!
