Description
This Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta recipe is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining tender, thinly sliced chicken breasts marinated in zesty lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then pan-cooked to perfection. Topped with salty feta and fresh parsley, it offers a perfect balance of Mediterranean flavors that’s ideal for a quick and healthy dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced (or 1 tsp dried garlic powder)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp + a pinch of sea salt
- 1/4 tsp coarse black pepper
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound of thin-sliced chicken breast
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
- Additional wedges of lemon for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the lemon juice and zest, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, sea salt, and coarse black pepper. Whisk together until well mixed to create a vibrant marinade that will infuse the chicken with bright, herby flavors.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the thin-sliced chicken breasts in the bowl with the marinade. Toss thoroughly so each piece is coated. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Add feta and parsley: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and fresh chopped parsley evenly over the cooked chicken while still warm, allowing the cheese to slightly soften and meld with the meat.
- Serve: Serve the chicken garnished with additional lemon wedges on the side for squeezing. This dish pairs well with a simple Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or warm pita bread.
Notes
- Ensure chicken pieces are thin-sliced for even, quick cooking.
- You can substitute fresh garlic with dried garlic powder but fresh provides better flavor.
- Adjust the amount of smoked paprika to your spice preference.
- This recipe works well with boneless, skinless chicken thighs as an alternative.
- For a low-sodium version, reduce the added sea salt and rely on the feta cheese for saltiness.
