Mediterranean Baked Feta Chicken Recipe
The Mediterranean Baked Feta Chicken recipe is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts, tangy feta cheese, and a medley of Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. This one-pan meal features a delightful combination of roasted tomatoes, olives, garlic, and herbs, all baked to perfection with crumbled feta, which melts and infuses the chicken with its creamy texture and savory taste. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and can be served with your favorite sides like couscous, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
1/3 cup Kalamata olives (pitted and halved)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.
Assemble the Dish:
In a large baking dish, add the cherry tomatoes, olives, and minced garlic.
Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the vegetable mixture.
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese evenly over the chicken breasts and the vegetables.
Bake:
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
If you prefer a more golden top, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
Serve hot with sides such as couscous, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Notes:
Chicken Thickness: If your chicken breasts are very thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness for more even cooking.
Cheese Options: While feta cheese is classic in this dish, you can substitute it with goat cheese or ricotta for a milder flavor and creamier texture.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other Mediterranean vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts to the baking dish for extra flavor and variety.
Herbs: For a more aromatic flavor, you can use fresh oregano and thyme instead of dried, or mix in other fresh herbs like basil or rosemary.
Make It a Meal: This dish pairs well with a simple salad or can be served over a grain like couscous or rice to soak up the flavorful juices.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
This Mediterranean Baked Feta Chicken is a versatile and healthy dish that’s loaded with flavor, making it an easy go-to for a satisfying and nourishing meal
Nutritional Info:
Serving: 1chicken breast + sauce | Calories: 511kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 58g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 197mg | Sodium: 1254mg | Potassium: 1224mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1444IU | Vitamin C: 23mg | Calcium: 327mg | Iron: 2mg