Description
This Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish featuring tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, then baked to perfection and topped with creamy crumbled feta cheese. Perfect for a wholesome, Mediterranean-inspired dinner that combines bright citrus notes with rich cheese and herbs.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 large lemons, juiced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping and Garnish
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is at the correct temperature for baking the chicken.
- Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and massage gently to coat the chicken evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or for deeper flavor, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
- Arrange the chicken for baking: Remove the chicken breasts from the bag and place them in a baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken to keep it flavorful and moist during baking.
- Add feta topping: Evenly sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of each chicken breast to create a deliciously creamy and tangy crust as it bakes.
- Bake the chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the feta cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then slice and serve with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness significantly.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright, tangy flavor.
- Check the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Serve with Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf for a balanced meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently to retain moisture.
