Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Vegetable and Flavorings
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, sliced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Toppings and Garnish
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish to prepare for baking.
- Season Chicken: In a bowl, season the chicken breasts or thighs evenly with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and paprika to infuse flavor.
- Arrange Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken pieces in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
- Prepare Vegetable Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, pitted Kalamata olives, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Toss gently to mix well.
- Add Vegetable Mixture: Spoon the tossed vegetable and olive mixture evenly over and around the chicken in the baking dish, ensuring good coverage.
- Bake Chicken: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fully cooked.
- Add Feta Cheese: Remove the dish from the oven, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese evenly over the chicken and vegetables, then return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove from oven and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve warm as a satisfying main dish.
Notes
- For extra vegetables, add zucchini or bell peppers to the vegetable mixture before baking.
- If using bone-in chicken, increase the baking time by 10 to 15 minutes to ensure thorough cooking.
- Pairs well with sides such as rice, couscous, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free