Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish combines the savory richness of chicken with the zesty freshness of lemon and the creamy texture of feta. The marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, while the feta topping adds a delightful contrast. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and can be paired with a side salad or grains for a well-rounded meal.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- olive oil
- fresh lemon juice
- lemon zest
- garlic cloves, minced
- dried oregano
- salt
- black pepper
- crumbled feta cheese
- fresh parsley (for garnish)
directions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well in the marinade. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs on the hot grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to retain its juices.
- Prepare the feta topping: While the chicken rests, crumble the feta cheese into a bowl and mix it with a drizzle of olive oil and chopped parsley.
- Slice the chicken: Slice the grilled chicken thighs into strips and arrange them on a serving platter.
- Add the topping: Sprinkle the feta mixture generously over the sliced chicken.
- Garnish: For extra color and flavor, garnish with additional parsley and lemon slices.
- Serve: Serve the Greek Chicken warm with a fresh side salad or your favorite grains.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
- Add Veggies: Serve the chicken with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for added nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the marinade for some heat.
- Greek Salad: Pair the chicken with a classic Greek salad (cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and red onion) for a complete meal.
storage/reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Alternatively, slice and use in wraps or sandwiches.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may be a little drier compared to thighs. You can marinate them the same way and cook them until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken a few hours or even the night before for more intense flavor.
What’s the best way to check if the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Can I use store-bought feta cheese?
Yes, store-bought crumbled feta works just fine. You can also use a block of feta and crumble it yourself for better texture and flavor.
What can I serve with this Greek Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad, roasted vegetables, quinoa, or couscous. You can also serve it with pita bread or rice.
Conclusion
Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta is an incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s sure to impress. The combination of zesty lemon, savory chicken, and creamy feta makes every bite absolutely delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed winner!
Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Description
This Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta is bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors! Tender, juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a tangy lemon and olive oil dressing, grilled to perfection, and topped with creamy feta cheese. It’s a simple, healthy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Olive oil
Fresh lemon juice
Lemon zest
Garlic cloves, minced
Dried oregano
Salt
Black pepper
Crumbled feta cheese
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well in the marinade. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs on the hot grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to retain its juices.
- Prepare the feta topping: While the chicken rests, crumble the feta cheese into a bowl and mix it with a drizzle of olive oil and chopped parsley.
- Slice the chicken: Slice the grilled chicken thighs into strips and arrange them on a serving platter.
- Add the topping: Sprinkle the feta mixture generously over the sliced chicken.
- Garnish: For extra color and flavor, garnish with additional parsley and lemon slices.
- Serve: Serve the Greek Chicken warm with a fresh side salad or your favorite grains.
Notes
Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Add Veggies: Serve the chicken with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for added nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the marinade for some heat.
Greek Salad: Pair the chicken with a classic Greek salad (cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and red onion) for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
