Name: Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 lemon, zested and juiced; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, finely minced or 1 tsp dried garlic powder; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp + a pinch of sea salt; ¼ tsp coarse black pepper; 1 pound thin-sliced chicken breast; ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled; ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley; Additional lemon wedges, for serving

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 36 reviews

If you have been searching for a delightful way to bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean into your kitchen, this Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines a lively blend of lemon, garlic, fresh herbs, and creamy feta that shines with every bite. Simple yet packed with personality, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. The balance of tangy citrus, savory spices, and the rich texture of feta cheese creates an irresistible harmony that will quickly make this recipe one of your favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl holds several pieces of raw chicken covered in an orange-yellow marinade with visible black pepper and spices. The chicken layers are soft and glossy, sitting closely together inside the bowl. A pair of silver tongs with gray silicone tips rests on top of the chicken, angled diagonally across the bowl. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, creating a clean and bright background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Some of the most essential ingredients make this dish come alive, blending freshness, seasoning, and rich textures that are key to authentic Greek flavors. Each component plays a role in building that unforgettable taste and vibrant color you crave in Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe.

Lemon (1, juiced and zested): Adds bright citrus notes that wake up the palate and tenderize the chicken.
Extra virgin olive oil (¼ cup): Provides smooth richness and helps the marinade come together perfectly.
Garlic cloves (3, finely minced) or 1 tsp dried garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with aromatic depth and a touch of spice.
Dried oregano (1 tsp): Brings that classic Greek herbal earthiness essential to the dish.
Smoked paprika (½ tsp): Offers a subtle smoky flavor that balances the lemon’s brightness beautifully.
Sea salt (½ tsp + a pinch): Elevates all the flavors and enhances natural taste.
Coarse black pepper (¼ tsp): Adds a gentle kick and complexity to the seasoning.
Chicken breast (1 pound, thinly sliced): The tender protein that carries all these delicious flavors.
Feta cheese (¼ cup, for garnish): Crumbles creamy, salty goodness over the finished dish.
Fresh chopped parsley (¼ cup, for garnish): Offers a fresh, bright contrast that completes the plate.
Additional lemon wedges: Perfect for extra zing when serving.

How to Make Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe

Step 1: Make the Marinade

Start by whisking together the lemon juice and zest, olive oil, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This vibrant marinade will infuse every bite of chicken with that signature tangy, herbal Mediterranean flavor. It’s important to mix until everything is well combined and emulsified so the flavors marry beautifully.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the thinly sliced chicken breasts into the bowl with the marinade, tossing with tongs to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated. After reserving about ¼ cup of marinade for later, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for approximately thirty minutes. This step lets the chicken soak up those incredible flavors while remaining tender and juicy.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in a bit of olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken slices. Sear each piece until the bottom is a gorgeous golden brown, then flip and cook the other side until the chicken is no longer pink inside and juices run clear. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes per side, creating a deliciously crusted exterior with a juicy interior.

Step 4: Finish and Garnish

Transfer the cooked chicken onto a serving plate and drizzle the reserved marinade over the top to lock in extra flavor. Finally, scatter fresh parsley and feta cheese over the chicken. These finishing touches add vibrant color and creamy, salty contrast that truly make this Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe shine.

How to Serve Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe

A white plate on a white marbled surface holds a cooked golden brown chicken fillet sprinkled with chopped green herbs and small white cheese pieces on the left side. Next to it, on the right, there is a fresh green spinach salad with a few slices of red chili peppers and some sprigs of parsley. A bright yellow lemon wedge rests at the top between the chicken and salad. A silver fork with an ornate handle is placed on the plate near the chicken. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley and crumbled feta aren’t just pretty—they elevate the dish with brightness and creaminess that balance the tangy lemon and savory spices perfectly. A few wedges of lemon on the side invite anyone to add more citrus zing to taste.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, warm pita bread, or a crisp cucumber and tomato salad to complement the juicy chicken. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant also bring a wholesome Mediterranean vibe to the meal, rounding out the flavors without overwhelming the star of the show.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests with your Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe, consider serving it over a bed of herbed couscous or alongside a refreshing Greek tzatziki sauce. For a casual spin, pile the chicken into warm pita pockets with some fresh veggies and extra feta for an unforgettable handheld meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, place any leftover Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will stay fresh for up to three days, making it perfect for quick lunches or a tasty next-day dinner.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken to enjoy later. Simply wrap portions tightly or use freezer-safe containers to prevent freezer burn. For best flavor, consume within two months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or warm in the oven to prevent drying out. Adding a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil can help maintain moisture and keep the chicken tender, ensuring your Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe tastes just as wonderful as freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a juicier, more flavorful alternative and work well with this marinade. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.

Is feta cheese necessary for this recipe?

Feta is a signature ingredient that adds salty creaminess, but if you don’t have it on hand, you could substitute with ricotta salata or skip it altogether while still enjoying great flavor.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese garnish, as the rest of the recipe is naturally dairy-free. You’ll still get plenty of flavor from the lemon, garlic, and herbs.

How can I make the chicken more tender?

Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes is key to tenderizing it. You can even marinate for a few hours or overnight for extra tender, flavorful results.

What sides pair well with this Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe?

Complimentary sides include rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, Greek salad, or pita bread—all perfect for soaking up the delicious juices and marinade.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe a try because it captures the vibrant spirit of Mediterranean cooking in a way that feels both comforting and exciting. Once you experience that perfect balance of zesty lemon, savory garlic, fragrant herbs, and creamy feta, it won’t be just another recipe in your collection—it will be a beloved go-to meal.

Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need