Introduction: Indulge your taste buds in the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with this delightful Greek Chicken recipe. Bursting with vibrant herbs, zesty lemon, and succulent chicken, this dish is a celebration of traditional Greek flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe promises a delicious and satisfying meal that transports you straight to the sunny shores of Greece.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and coat them with the prepared marinade. Ensure the chicken is well-coated on both sides.
- Scatter halved cherry tomatoes and sliced Kalamata olives around the chicken in the baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the chicken and let it melt slightly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the Greek Chicken hot, with your choice of sides like couscous, rice, or a Greek salad.
FAQs:
Q1: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? A1: Absolutely! Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in chicken may require a bit more time in the oven to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Q2: Can I marinate the chicken in advance? A2: Yes, marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight will enhance the flavors. Just refrigerate it in an airtight container.
Q3: What sides pair well with Greek Chicken? A3: Consider serving it with couscous, rice, or a classic Greek salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Q4: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? A4: Certainly! Use double the amount of fresh herbs if substituting for dried ones. Adjust according to your taste preferences.
Q5: How do I know when the chicken is done? A5: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.
Embrace the flavors of Greece with this easy and delicious Greek Chicken recipe. It’s a perfect dish to impress guests or simply enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean at home.