This Greek Chicken recipe combines traditional Mediterranean flavors and ingredients, creating a vibrant and healthy dish. Prepared entirely in one pan in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of seasoned chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese offers a nutrient-dense, low-carb, and gluten-free meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Seasonings for Chicken:

½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, snipped
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
¼ teaspoon salt, or more to taste
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or more

Chicken:

1.7 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil (you can use oil from the sun-dried tomato jar)
4 oz sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil

Vegetables:

8 oz cherry (grape) tomatoes, halved
½ cup pitted kalamata olives, halved
½ cup pitted green olives, halved
1 tablespoon fresh thyme
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed

Feta Topping:

6 oz feta cheese, crumbled
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, snipped
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
½ teaspoon dried oregano

Directions

In a small bowl, combine all the seasonings for the chicken.
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over both sides of the chicken thighs.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat.
Add the chicken thighs and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet.
Cook the chicken on medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
Remove the cooked chicken to a plate and slice it thinly.
Return the sliced chicken to the skillet.
Add halved cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, green olives, fresh thyme, fresh basil, and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the skillet.
Mix everything well and cook on medium heat for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes release their juices and the dish is heated through.
In a separate bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, fresh thyme, fresh basil, and dried oregano to create the feta topping.
Sprinkle the feta topping over the skillet with the chicken and vegetables before serving.

Nutrients

Per Serving:

Calories: Approximately 592 kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 34g
Fat: 45g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 172mg
Sodium: 1,079mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g

The Appeal of Greek Chicken

Greek cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a harmonious blend of herbs and spices. This Greek Chicken recipe stays true to that tradition by incorporating classic Mediterranean staples such as olives, tomatoes, feta cheese, and aromatic herbs.

The use of skinless, boneless chicken thighs ensures that the dish remains juicy and flavorful. Unlike chicken breasts, thighs retain moisture better during cooking, making them a preferred choice for recipes requiring high heat. Additionally, the infusion of flavors from sun-dried tomatoes and olives elevates the dish to a whole new level of richness.

Another reason this recipe is so appealing is its one-pan convenience. Cooking everything in a single skillet means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. The process of cooking the chicken first, then simmering it with fresh ingredients, allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dish that tastes as if it has been slow-cooked for hours.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

This Greek Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize nutrition in their meals.

Chicken thighs provide a good source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and overall body function. While they contain slightly more fat than chicken breasts, this fat contributes to the dish’s rich flavor and helps keep you full longer.

Sun-dried tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to reduced risk of chronic diseases. They also provide a concentrated source of vitamins A and C, supporting immune health and skin vitality.

Olives are a key component of the Mediterranean diet and offer numerous health benefits. Both green and kalamata olives provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels. They are also rich in vitamin E, which acts as a powerful antioxidant.

Feta cheese, a traditional Greek cheese made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, adds a tangy and creamy element to the dish. It is a good source of calcium and protein while being lower in fat than many other cheeses. Additionally, feta contains beneficial probiotics that support gut health.

Herbs such as thyme, basil, and oregano not only enhance the dish’s flavor but also provide essential vitamins and minerals. These herbs have anti-inflammatory properties and contribute to overall well-being.

Ideal Occasions for Enjoying This Dish

Greek Chicken is a versatile meal that can be enjoyed in various settings. It is perfect for a quick and nutritious weeknight dinner, allowing you to prepare a wholesome dish without excessive effort.

For those looking to meal prep, this recipe is an excellent choice because it stores well and can be easily reheated. You can prepare a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for lunch or dinner over the next few days.

If you’re hosting a gathering or dinner party, this dish will impress guests with its vibrant presentation and bold flavors. Pairing it with a fresh Greek salad or a side of cauliflower rice will elevate the meal even further.

Additionally, those following a keto, low-carb, or gluten-free diet will appreciate how well this dish aligns with their dietary needs. Its balance of healthy fats, proteins, and minimal carbohydrates makes it a great option for maintaining a nutritious eating plan.

Customization and Variations

While this recipe is already packed with flavor, there are several ways to customize it to suit personal preferences or dietary requirements.

For a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. This will bring additional warmth and depth to the dish.

If you prefer chicken breasts over thighs, you can easily substitute them in the recipe. Just keep in mind that chicken breasts tend to be leaner, so be careful not to overcook them to maintain tenderness.

For a creamier texture, you can add a dollop of Greek yogurt or heavy cream to the skillet towards the end of cooking. This will create a rich and slightly tangy sauce that complements the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.

Vegetable lovers can add more fresh ingredients such as bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts to increase the nutrient content of the dish. These vegetables will not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors to the presentation.

For those who enjoy a stronger cheese flavor, substituting feta with crumbled goat cheese will provide a tangier and creamier taste.

Tips for the Best Greek Chicken

To ensure that your Greek Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips:

Marinate the chicken if time allows. While this recipe already packs a lot of flavors, marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for an hour or more will intensify its taste and tenderness.

Use high-quality olives and sun-dried tomatoes. These ingredients play a significant role in the dish’s overall flavor, so opting for premium brands will make a difference.

Avoid overcrowding the pan. When cooking the chicken, give each piece enough space to sear properly. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam instead of developing a golden-brown crust.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The natural saltiness of feta cheese and olives can vary, so it’s best to add salt gradually and taste before adding more.

Storing and Reheating

Greek Chicken is an excellent meal prep option because it stores well and maintains its flavors even after reheating. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

To reheat, place the chicken and vegetables in a skillet over medium-low heat and stir occasionally until warmed through. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals while stirring to prevent uneven heating.

If freezing, store the cooked chicken separately from the feta topping to maintain texture. Allow the dish to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken is a vibrant, flavorful, and nutrient-dense dish that brings the best of Mediterranean cuisine to your home. Its combination of juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and creamy feta cheese ensures that every bite is satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner, a meal prep option, or an impressive dish for entertaining, this recipe is a fantastic choice. With its customizable ingredients and numerous health benefits, Greek Chicken is a dish that can be enjoyed by a wide range of people, making it a staple in any home kitchen.

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