Greek Chicken with Lemon Feta

This Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta is a bright, juicy dish that brings a burst of Mediterranean flavors to your table. Marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, garlic, and oregano, this thin-sliced chicken is cooked until golden and finished with creamy crumbled feta. It is an ideal choice for a quick, healthy, and high-protein meal that is naturally gluten-free.

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This recipe captures the essence of Greek cuisine by using simple, high-quality ingredients to create a meal that is both light and satisfying. By using thin-sliced chicken breast, you ensure a fast cooking time while the marinade keeps the meat incredibly tender and flavorful.

Ingredients

• 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 sea salt, 1/4 tsp coarse black pepper
• Chicken: 1 lb (450 g) thin-sliced chicken breast, pinch of sea salt
• Topping & Garnish: 1/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled), 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped), lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and black pepper until well emulsified. Reserve 1/4 cup of the marinade for serving.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the thin-sliced chicken breast to the bowl with the remaining marinade. Use tongs to coat the chicken thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to marinate.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Place the marinated chicken in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown on one side.

Step 4: Finish Cooking

Flip the chicken and continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until cooked through and juices run clear.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the chicken to a serving plate. Drizzle with the reserved marinade. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese.

Step 6: Final Touch

Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, do not skip the 30-minute marinating time; it allows the acidity of the lemon to tenderize the chicken while infusing it with the herbs. Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to get a nice golden sear without overcooking the inside.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. You can also swap the fresh garlic for 1 teaspoon of dried garlic powder if you are in a hurry.

Serviervorschläge

This Greek Chicken pairs beautifully with a fresh Greek salad, fluffy white rice, or herb-roasted potatoes. It also works well sliced over a bed of quinoa or inside a warm pita for a more casual meal.

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Whether you're looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or a meal-prep staple, this Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta is a versatile and flavorful choice. Enjoy the vibrant, zesty taste of the Mediterranean in every bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Boneless skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and may stay juicier. Adjust cooking time to 6-7 minutes per side since thighs are thicker than thin-sliced breasts.

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

Thirty minutes is ideal for developing flavor without breaking down the meat's texture. You can marinate up to 4 hours for deeper flavor penetration.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

Try halloumi for a similar salty profile, or goat cheese for a tangier finish. For dairy-free options, omit the cheese entirely or use vegan feta alternatives.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Marinate raw chicken and freeze in the marinade for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking. Already cooked chicken keeps frozen for 2-3 months.

→ What sides pair well with this chicken?

Traditional Greek sides like tzatziki, warm pita bread, or a crisp Greek salad complement beautifully. Roasted vegetables, quinoa, or wild rice also make excellent accompaniments.