Greek Chicken

When I think about comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like Greek Chicken. This dish is like a warm embrace, blending vibrant flavors and juicy chicken into a heavenly meal. I remember the first time I made it; I had friends over, and the aroma wafting through the kitchen drew them in like moths to a flame. The spices danced together, creating an irresistible melody. As I plated the chicken, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of feta, I felt a sense of pride. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, whether for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering.

What Goes Into Greek Chicken

The ingredients for Greek Chicken are thoughtfully selected to create a balanced and flavorful dish. The key players, such as chicken, olive oil, and garlic, work harmoniously to enhance one another. The addition of feta cheese and fresh herbs adds a deliciously tangy finish that elevates the dish to new heights.

• 4 chicken fillets or small boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to an even thickness: The main protein that absorbs all the wonderful flavors.
• 1 (12 oz.) jar roasted red bell peppers, drained and roughly chopped (optional): Adds a sweet and smoky flavor.
• 1 (12 oz.) can artichoke hearts, drained and halved (optional): Brings a unique texture and flavor to the dish.
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, rinsed and chopped (optional): Provides a tangy burst of flavor.
• 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives, drained (optional): Adds a briny, rich taste that is quintessentially Greek.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for cooking and adding depth of flavor.
• 6 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Balances the flavors with a touch of acidity.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the dish and enhances the overall taste.
• 2 teaspoons honey (reduce to 1 tsp. if omitting sun-dried tomatoes): Adds a hint of sweetness.
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano: A classic herb that complements the Mediterranean flavors.
• 1 tsp EACH dried basil, ground cumin, onion powder, salt: A blend of spices that enhances the flavor profile.
• ½ tsp EACH pepper, paprika: Adds warmth and depth to the dish.
• ½ cup feta cheese (optional): Creamy and tangy, perfect for topping.
• Freshly chopped parsley (optional): A fresh herb garnish that brightens the presentation.

Recipe Steps for Greek Chicken

Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious Greek Chicken. Each step will guide you through the process, ensuring that your dish is bursting with flavor. You’ll see that it’s easier than you might think!

1. First, prepare the wet rub by whisking together all the wet rub ingredients in a large bowl. The aroma of the garlic and olive oil will fill your kitchen!
2. Add the chicken to the bowl and stir until it’s evenly coated with the marinade. This is where the magic begins, as the flavors meld together. If you have time, let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours for a more profound taste.
3. While the chicken is soaking up all that goodness, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures a nice, hot cooking environment that will help develop a lovely crust on your chicken.
4. Next, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will prevent sticking and help in the clean-up process. It’s such a small step that makes a big difference!
5. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, roasted bell peppers, artichokes, and Kalamata olives to the greased dish. Stir to combine these delicious ingredients, making a colorful base.
6. Now, lay the marinated chicken on top of the vegetable mix without overlapping. This allows for even cooking and flavor absorption.
7. Tightly cover the pan with foil, which helps to keep the moisture in, ensuring your chicken stays juicy. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. You can check this with an instant-read thermometer, which should read 165 degrees.
8. Once done, remove the foil, and garnish the chicken with crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley if desired. This not only adds flavor but also a pop of color!
9. Finally, serve the Greek Chicken with your choice of rice, cauliflower rice, or mashed potatoes, paired with a generous dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki for that authentic touch. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tips and Tricks about Greek Chicken

To make the most out of your Greek Chicken experience, here are some tried-and-true tips. These insights will ensure your dish comes out perfectly every time!

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days, keeping the flavors intact.
• Freezing: You can freeze the Greek Chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or even pita bread for a more complete meal.
• Flavor Enhancement: For an extra flavor kick, add a splash of lemon juice just before serving for brightness.
• Make-ahead Option: Prepare the marinade and chicken the night before. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat!
• Experiment with Herbs: Try different herbs like thyme or dill; they can add a unique twist to the classic flavor profile.

Serving This Greek Chicken

When it comes to serving Greek Chicken, there are countless options to explore. Here’s how you can present this dish beautifully and enjoy it fully:

• With Rice: Serve alongside fluffy rice, perfect for soaking up the delicious juices.
• Over Salad: Place the Greek Chicken on a bed of greens with a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.
• As a Wrap: Warm some pita bread and make delightful wraps filled with chicken, veggies, and tzatziki.
• For Special Occasions: This dish is perfect for gatherings, making it a go-to for celebrations or family dinners.
• Seasonal Pairings: In summer, serve with a refreshing cucumber salad, while in winter, roasted root vegetables complement it well.
• Leftover Ideas: Create tasty chicken burritos with leftover Greek Chicken, beans, and cheese for lunch the next day.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Greek Chicken is a flavorful, convenient dish that brings vibrant Mediterranean tastes right to your table. It’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions, and I can’t recommend it enough. Give this recipe a try, and I promise it’ll become a favorite in your household. Your taste buds will thank you!

Greek Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Greek Chicken is a delightful blend of juicy chicken and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for the whole family to enjoy. Try it tonight for a dish that is as delicious as it is satisfying!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 2 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 3 hours hrs

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 pieces chicken fillets or small boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to an even thickness
• 1 jar roasted red bell peppers drained, roughly chopped (optional)
• 1 can artichoke hearts drained, halved (optional)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes rinsed, chopped (optional)
• 1 cup Kalamata olives drained (optional)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons honey reduce to 1 tsp. if omitting sun-dried tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ cup feta cheese (optional)
• 1 bunch fresh parsley (optional)

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Whisk
• Chef's Knife
• Frying pan
• Slow Cooker
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Wet Rub: Whisk all of the Wet Rub ingredients together in a large bowl. Add the chicken and stir until evenly coated. Let rest while you prep the rest of the ingredients or cover and marinate in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours. If you refrigerate the chicken (more flavor!), let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, artichokes and olives, and stir to combine. Line the chicken on top without overlapping.
3. Tightly cover the pan with foil and bake at 400 degrees for 35-45 minutes or until chicken is cooked through (an instant read thermometer should register 165 degrees). Cooking time may be more or less depending on thickness of chicken.
4. Garnish chicken with feta and fresh parsley if desired. Serve with rice, cauliflower rice, mashed potatoes, etc. along with a big dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki. Season with salt and pepper to taste. See the post for lots of ways to serve this recipe!
5. Add the chicken to a lightly greased 6-quart slow cooker (or larger). Whisk all of the Wet Rub ingredients together in a small bowl. Drizzle it over the chicken, then turn the chicken until it’s evenly coated; line chicken in a single layer. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, artichokes and olives, around the chicken.
6. Cover and cook on HIGH for 1 ½ to 2 hours or 3 to 4 hours on LOW or until chicken is cooked through (an instant read thermometer should register 165 degrees). Cooking time may be more or less depending on thickness of chicken.
7. Garnish chicken with feta and fresh parsley if desired. Serve with rice, cauliflower rice, mashed potatoes, etc. along with a big dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki. Season with salt and pepper to taste. See the post for lots of ways to serve this recipe!

Notes

• Chicken: use any cut of chicken you like for this recipe (skin removed) and adjust the baking time as needed.
• Marinate the chicken: if baking chicken instead of using the crockpot, I highly recommend marinating the chicken. The longer you marinate the chicken, the more tender it will become. If you don’t have time, however, don’t stress it.
• Customize the add-ins: the add-ins are simply suggestions-you can add/swap any ingredients for your favs. You can even add vegetables like potatoes or green beans.
• Don’t skip the yogurt! The tzatziki or Greek yogurt is a key component in this Greek Chicken. Its creamy consistency is needed to marry all of the ingredients together and its refreshing tanginess cuts through the robust chicken.
• Make chicken and rice bowls: You can create a serving bowl bar and let everyone build their own Greek Chicken bowls – see the post for how I add roasted cauliflower and sweet potatoes.
• To Store: the cooked Greek Chicken should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
• To freeze: transfer the Greek Chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, artichokes and bell peppers to a freezer-safe, airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw chicken overnight in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let the casserole dish sit on the counter for 30 minutes, then bake as directed.
• To reheat in a skillet: heat a tablespoon of olive oil in skillet and heat over medium low heat. Add chicken and bell peppers, etc. and heat until warmed through.
• To reheat in the microwave: chop up the chicken so it reheats evenly then cook at for 60 seconds, then at 15 second intervals as needed until warmed through.

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Meet Hazel Miller

The Flavor Enthusiast Yes, Jenna and I are related! Growing up, our kitchen was the center of our world, and that hasn’t changed. I am a curious cook who loves exploring new ingredients and techniques. I don’t have a single specialty I just love the magic of transformation. Whether we are grilling outdoors or baking indoors, I am always right there, tasting, testing, and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.