Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta

There’s something undeniably romantic about Mediterranean cuisine, isn’t there? The way flavors waltz together, the zesty bursts of lemon, the creamy tang of feta, and the unmistakable aroma of herbs—each element tells a story of sun-soaked days spent by azure waters. I remember my first sip of tzatziki and the first bite of aromatic Greek chicken on a warm summer evening, the sunset spilling orange and pink across the sky, making everything feel perfect. And every time I make my own Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta, I find myself transported back to that moment. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of everything I love about cooking—especially the joy it brings when shared with loved ones.

Recipe Timing

• Prep Duration: 10-15 minutes
• Active Cooking: 30-35 minutes
• Total Duration: 40-50 minutes
• Portion Size: Serves 4
• Complexity: Simple

Nutritional Recipe

• Calories per portion: Approximately 350
• Protein: 40 grams per serving
• Carbs: 6 grams per serving
• Fats: 18 grams per serving
• Fiber: 0.5 grams per serving
• Sugars: 1 gram per serving
• Sodium: 580 mg per serving

Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta

This dish dances on your palate with its bright flavors and hearty textures. The chicken is juicy and tender, marinated with a dreamy blend of olive oil and fresh lemon juice, and kissed just right by the hints of garlic and herbs. The crumbled feta gets all melty, mingling with the briny taste of Kalamata olives, making every bite a delightful experience. And did I mention it’s incredibly easy to whip up? Whether you’re cooking for a simple weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend gathering, this Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta is bound to impress.

The Complete Cooking Journey

Let’s not waste any time diving into this culinary adventure! You’ll soon find that cooking can be as rewarding as it is delicious. For this recipe, we’ll embrace the art of marinating and cooking chicken to perfection, all with the comforting flavors of Greece.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving

Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Begin by preparing the marinade for the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator to bring it to room temperature.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts to the skillet and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a nice golden-brown color.

Step 5: Add the Feta and Olives

After searing, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top of the chicken breasts, followed by the sliced Kalamata olives.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve the Greek chicken hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

For a delightful meal, pair this Greek Chicken with a fresh Greek salad topped with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives for a complete Mediterranean experience. Serve with warm pita bread or fluffy couscous to soak up the vibrant juices. For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon enhances the flavors beautifully!

Storage & Leftovers Guide

If you find yourself with leftovers (though I wouldn’t blame you if you didn’t!), let the chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

• For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if your schedule allows.
• Always let the chicken rest at room temperature for a little while before cooking; it helps it cook evenly.
• If you don’t have Kalamata olives, you can substitute them with green olives or leave them out altogether.

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

Feel free to add other herbs that you love—a sprinkle of fresh dill or basil would be lovely. For a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes! If you want a different twist, try using thighs or drumsticks instead of breasts for a richer flavor.

Reader Questions & Solutions

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
   Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before marinating.

2. What can I serve with this dish?
   A side of roasted vegetables or a fresh grain salad works wonderfully!

3. How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
   Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F (75°C).

4. Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
   Absolutely! Grill for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.

5. What’s the best way to cut the chicken to keep it juicy?
   Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing to retain juiciness.

Wrapping Up

Let me tell you, the magic of this Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta lies not just in its mouthwatering flavor, but in the stories and connections it creates around the dinner table. So why not give it a try? Venture into the kitchen and let the aroma of lemon and herbs fill your home. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking!

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