This Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that brings a burst of Mediterranean goodness to your table. Marinated in a zesty lemon and garlic blend, then topped with creamy feta and fresh herbs, this chicken dish is simple, healthy, and perfect for busy weeknights. The bold citrus flavor combined with the tangy feta makes it truly special and one recipe you’ll want to make on repeat.
In our house, Greek food is always a hit, but this Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta has become a family favorite. My husband loves how the lemon marinade adds a refreshing zing, while the kids are all about the creamy feta crumbled on top. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a mini Mediterranean vacation on a plate, without the need for too many ingredients or time in the kitchen. Plus, it’s become my go-to for quick weeknight dinners, especially when we’re craving something light yet satisfying.
Why This Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just 30 minutes of marinating, the chicken is infused with flavor and cooks up quickly.
- Zesty and Flavorful: The marinade, with its combination of fresh lemon, garlic, oregano, and smoked paprika, creates a vibrant, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken.
- Healthy Mediterranean Flavors: Fresh parsley and crumbly feta give this dish an authentic Mediterranean flair, while extra virgin olive oil keeps it light and heart-healthy.
- Versatile Dish: This Greek chicken can be served with a variety of sides like rice, salad, or roasted vegetables, making it a flexible addition to your weekly menu.
Ingredients:
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced (or 1 tsp dried garlic powder)
- 5 g (1 tsp) dried oregano
- 2 g (1/2 tsp) smoked paprika
- 3 g (1/2 tsp + pinch) sea salt
- 1 g (1/4 tsp) coarse black pepper
- 450 g (1 lb) thin-sliced chicken breast
Garnish:
- 60 g (1/4 cup) feta cheese, crumbled
- 15 g (1/4 cup) fresh parsley, chopped
- Additional lemon wedges for serving
Directions:
- Prepare the marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined and emulsified.
- Marinate the chicken: Set aside 60 ml (1/4 cup) of the marinade for later use. Place the chicken breasts into the bowl with the remaining marinade, tossing them with tongs to ensure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, drizzle in a little olive oil and place the marinated chicken into the pan. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. The chicken is done when it’s white in the center and juices run clear when cut.
- Finish and serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving plate. Drizzle the reserved marinade over the top for an extra burst of flavor. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese. Garnish with additional lemon wedges, and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Notes:
- Substitutions: If you don’t have thin-sliced chicken breasts, you can pound regular chicken breasts to an even thickness for quicker cooking. You can also swap feta for goat cheese or even omit it for a dairy-free option.
- Cooking Tip: Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy. The searing should give it a nice golden crust without drying out the inside.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of orzo for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
