A plate of golden Greek chicken garnished with crumbled feta, fresh parsley, and lemon wedges, served with a side of greens.

Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta: Bright and Flavorful

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This Greek-inspired chicken dish offers a delightful mix of tangy, savory, and fresh flavors. Perfectly marinated chicken seared to golden perfection is paired with creamy feta and parsley, making it a satisfying and versatile meal option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Fresh Mediterranean Flavors: Lemon, garlic, and herbs create a vibrant base, complemented by creamy feta.
  • Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and a short cook time make this dish perfect for weeknights.
  • Healthy and Versatile: Packed with lean protein and fresh ingredients, it pairs well with salads, rice, or pita.
  • Restaurant-Quality at Home: Impress your family or guests with this elegant yet simple dish.

Ingredients for Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta

For the Chicken and Marinade:

  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely minced (or 1 tsp dried garlic powder)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp + a pinch of sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp coarse black pepper
  • 1 pound thin-sliced chicken breast

For Garnish:

  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Additional lemon wedges

Chef’s Tip: Thin-sliced chicken breasts cook more evenly and absorb the marinade better

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade and Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
    • Lemon zest
    • Lemon juice
    • Olive oil
    • Garlic
    • Oregano
    • Smoked paprika
    • Sea salt
    • Black pepper
  2. Whisk until the mixture is well emulsified. Reserve 1/4 cup of the marinade for drizzling later.
  3. Add the chicken breasts to the remaining marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
  4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

2. Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan.
  2. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
  3. Sear the chicken in the skillet for 3-4 minutes on one side, until golden brown.
  4. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)).

3. Garnish and Serve

  1. Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving plate.
  2. Drizzle with the reserved marinade for an extra burst of flavor.
  3. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese.
  4. Serve with additional lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.

Serving Suggestions

  • With a Salad: Pair with a crisp Greek salad of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and red onion.
  • Over Rice or Couscous: Serve on a bed of herbed rice or fluffy couscous for a complete meal.
  • In a Wrap: Slice the chicken and stuff it into a warm pita with tzatziki and fresh veggies.
  • With Roasted Veggies: Complement the dish with roasted zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers.

Chef’s Tips for Success

  • Don’t Skip the Marinade: The lemon and herbs infuse the chicken with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
  • Avoid Overcooking: Thin chicken breasts cook quickly; remove them from heat as soon as they’re done.
  • Feta Options: Use block feta for crumbling, as it has a fresher and creamier texture than pre-crumbled.
  • Extra Flavor: Add a splash of white wine to the skillet while cooking for a richer sauce.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 260 kcal
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Protein: 28g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and add extra juiciness. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
Substitute with dried parsley or other fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for a flavor twist.

Can I grill the chicken instead?
Absolutely! Grill the marinated chicken over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying it out.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the marinade up to 1 day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Marinate the chicken when ready to cook.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean straight to your table. The zesty marinade, golden sear, and creamy feta topping create a dish that’s both comforting and impressive.

Serve it with your favorite sides for a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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