Greek Chicken
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Greek chicken, a delightful dish that transports your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean. This recipe features marinated chicken thighs infused with lemon, garlic, and a medley of herbs, complemented by tangy feta cheese and olives. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is as easy to prepare as it is to savor. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this wholesome and flavorful meal!
Ingredients
– 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 35-40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken thigh with olives and feta) contains approximately 350 calories, 25g of protein, 28g of fat, and 2g of carbohydrates. This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish.
4. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated.
5. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
6. Sprinkle feta cheese and olives around the chicken in the baking dish.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
8. Baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through cooking.
9. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts for a leaner option. For a dairy-free version, replace feta with a vegan cheese alternative. Additionally, any variety of olives can be used based on your preference.
Serving and Pairings
Greek chicken pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh Greek salad, or fluffy couscous. For a complete meal, serve with warm pita bread and tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Greek chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well-sealed.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent dryness.
– Don’t skip marinating; it enhances flavor and tenderness.
– Ensure the oven is preheated for even cooking.
– Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
– Don’t overcrowd the baking dish; give chicken space to cook evenly.
Helpful Tips
– For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the marinade.
– Let the chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.
– Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for varied flavor.
– Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may require less cooking time. Adjust accordingly to avoid overcooking.
What can I serve with Greek chicken?
Consider pairing it with a Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf for a complete meal.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra kick.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Greek chicken stores well and can be prepared in advance for easy weekday meals.
Can I grill this chicken instead of baking it?
Yes, grilling is a great alternative! Just ensure the chicken is marinated and cooked to the right temperature.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and then bake it when ready to serve for enhanced flavor.
Conclusion
Greek chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings the essence of the Mediterranean to your table. With its delightful combination of herbs, olives, and feta, it’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Try this recipe today and savor every bite of this delicious meal!
Greek Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs bone-in and skin-on
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Place chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them.
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Sprinkle feta cheese and olives around the chicken.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through cooking.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
