There’s an undeniable charm to a meal that’s both effortless to prepare and delivers an explosion of flavor. This **Oven Baked Greek Chicken** perfectly embodies that culinary philosophy. Imagine a vibrant, healthy dinner that comes together with minimal fuss, bakes hands-off in your oven, and fills your kitchen with the irresistible aromas of the Mediterranean. Crafted with fresh, wholesome ingredients, this one-pan wonder promises a delightful and nutritious meal that the entire family will adore, making it a staple for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings alike. It’s more than just a dish; it’s an experience of savory chicken, briny olives, tangy feta, and aromatic herbs, all harmoniously cooked to perfection.
This recipe transforms simple chicken breasts into a culinary journey, nestling them among a colorful array of fresh ingredients such as succulent tomatoes, fragrant shallots, and the star of the show: premium olives. Baked together, these components create a healthy and flavorful dinner in record time. The magic of the Mediterranean truly comes alive in every bite, thanks to the rich, distinctive taste of Pearls Specialties Pitted Greek Kalamata olives, creamy feta cheese, and a robust homemade Greek marinade that infuses every element with authentic zest. This dish is a testament to how simple, quality ingredients can coalesce into something extraordinary, making it an ideal choice for anyone craving vibrant, wholesome flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
At the heart of this Greek masterpiece are Pearls Specialties Kalamata Greek Olives. These aren’t just any olives; they are gourmet gems, meticulously sourced directly from the sun-drenched groves of Greece. Pearls is a brand revered by olive enthusiasts for its unwavering commitment to quality and authentic flavor, making their olives my top choice whenever I’m at the grocery store. Their Specialties Kalamata olives boast a firm texture and a distinctive fruity, wine-like flavor that elevates any dish they grace. It’s this dedication to excellence that truly distinguishes this recipe, transforming it from merely good to undeniably great. The depth of flavor these hand-picked, handcrafted purple jewels impart is unparalleled, bringing a touch of true Hellenic tradition to your table.
If you find yourself enchanted by the irresistible flavor of Kalamata olives, consider picking up an extra jar or two of Pearl’s Specialties Pitted Kalamata Greek Olives. These versatile olives can inspire a wealth of other delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes. For an equally delightful experience, I highly recommend trying my Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad, bursting with zesty herbs and fresh vegetables, or my comforting Greek Alfredo Lasagna Rolls, offering a rich and creamy take on classic Greek flavors. Both recipes showcase the incredible versatility and vibrant taste that Kalamata olives bring, making them fantastic choices for satisfying weeknight dinners that transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean coast.
Why You’ll Love This Oven Baked Greek Chicken
- Unforgettably Flavorful. This Oven Baked Greek Chicken is truly a symphony of flavors. The authentic, sun-kissed Kalamata olives, hand-picked and expertly cured, deliver a firm texture and a wonderfully fruity, almost wine-like essence that is entirely unique. This distinct olive flavor intertwines beautifully with the savory chicken, sweet shallots, juicy tomatoes, and the tangy notes of feta and lemon. Every ingredient contributes to a complex yet perfectly balanced profile that sings with Mediterranean charm, leaving you craving more with each succulent bite. The aromatic herbs in the marinade further enhance this richness, creating a truly gourmet experience from a simple one-pan meal.
- Effortlessly Easy. Say goodbye to complicated recipes and stacks of dirty dishes. This Greek chicken recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimum effort. It primarily involves a quick pan-sear of the chicken to lock in juices and develop a golden crust, followed by combining all ingredients in a single pan before transferring it to the oven. This hands-off baking process allows you to tend to other tasks or simply relax while your dinner cooks to perfection. It’s the ultimate solution for those demanding busy weeknights when you need a delicious, wholesome meal without the culinary acrobatics. Cleanup is just as simple, making it a win-win for any home cook.
- A Family Favorite. Finding a dish that appeals to everyone at the dinner table can be a challenge, but this Greek chicken consistently wins rave reviews from both adults and children alike. Its vibrant colors, appealing textures, and deeply satisfying flavors make it an instant hit. Kids often delight in picking out the flavorful olives or juicy tomatoes, eagerly reaching for second helpings. Parents will appreciate that it’s packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste. It’s a wonderful way to introduce diverse, healthy flavors to your family in an approachable and delicious format.
Essential Greek Chicken Ingredients
Crafting the perfect One-Pan Baked Greek Chicken relies on a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients that bring the vibrant tastes of Greece right into your kitchen. Each component plays a crucial role in building the dish’s distinctive flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need to create this Mediterranean masterpiece:
- Pearls Specialties Pitted Kalamata Greek Olives: These are the cornerstone of the dish’s authentic Mediterranean flavor. Sourced from Greece, these sun-kissed olives offer a firm, meaty texture and a rich, complex, wine-like fruitiness that truly sets them apart. Their robust flavor permeates the entire dish, adding a salty, briny depth that complements the chicken and vegetables beautifully.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbly, salty, and tangy, authentic Greek feta cheese is essential for that unmistakable Mediterranean creaminess and bite. You can purchase it pre-crumbled for convenience or buy a block and crumble it yourself for a fresher taste and slightly different texture.
- Baby Shallots: Offering a delicate, sweeter, and milder flavor than traditional onions, baby shallots caramelize beautifully in the oven, adding a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth to the dish without overpowering the other ingredients. Using them whole allows for a beautiful presentation and tender texture.
- Tomatoes: Small vine tomatoes, like cherry or grape tomatoes, are ideal for this recipe. Their burst of juicy sweetness and bright acidity, especially when roasted, provides a fresh contrast to the savory chicken and olives. They soften and release their vibrant juices, creating a delicious sauce base.
- Garlic: No Greek dish is complete without a generous amount of garlic! Using whole cloves that slowly roast alongside the other ingredients results in a milder, sweeter, and deeply aromatic garlic flavor that enhances every component without being overly pungent. Feel free to add more if you’re a garlic lover.
- Greek Pepperoncini: Opt for the golden Greek variety of pepperoncini. These mild, slightly sweet, and tangy peppers add a delightful zing and a subtle peppery note that brightens the entire dish, offering a wonderful contrast to the rich flavors. They are less bitter and more flavorful than their Italian counterparts for this recipe.
- Lemon Slices: Fresh lemon slices are key for adding a bright, zesty aroma and a burst of refreshing citrus flavor. As they bake, the lemon infuses the chicken and vegetables with a wonderful tang, cutting through the richness and elevating the overall taste.
- Chicken Seasoning: A simple yet powerful blend enhances the chicken’s natural flavor. This includes a pinch of **salt** and **black pepper** for foundational seasoning, high-quality **olive oil** for searing and moisture, dried aromatic **oregano** and **basil** for classic Greek herbal notes, a touch of **paprika** for color and mild sweetness, and freshly **minced garlic** for an extra layer of savory depth. This combination creates a rich, savory crust during the initial sear.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for their lean protein content and ease of cooking. To ensure even cooking and maximum tenderness, it’s crucial to pound the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness, allowing them to absorb the marinade and cook consistently in the oven.
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Greek Marinade: This vibrant marinade is the soul of the dish, infusing the chicken and vegetables with incredible flavor and moisture. It combines:
- **Dried Oregano and Basil:** Essential Greek herbs that provide aromatic warmth.
- **Chili Flakes:** For a subtle hint of warmth and a gentle kick.
- **Salt and Black Pepper:** To season and enhance all the flavors.
- **Paprika:** Adds a sweet, smoky undertone and beautiful color.
- **Honey Dijon Mustard:** Provides a tangy, slightly sweet, and emulsifying element, giving the marinade body.
- **Red Wine Vinegar:** Contributes acidity and a classic Mediterranean tang that tenderizes the chicken. Balsamic vinegar can be a suitable alternative for a slightly sweeter, richer flavor.
- **Olive Oil:** A foundational element, carrying the flavors and helping to brown the chicken.
- **Garlic (minced):** Fresh minced garlic is paramount for a potent and authentic flavor profile.
- **Fresh Lemon Juice:** Crucial for bright acidity and zing. Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice; bottled versions simply don’t offer the same vibrant flavor.
- **Chicken Broth (low sodium):** Adds moisture and helps create a savory sauce as the dish bakes. Opting for low sodium allows you to control the salt content precisely.
How To Make Oven Baked Greek Chicken
This one-pan wonder is remarkably straightforward to prepare, allowing you to create a gourmet-tasting meal with minimal effort. Follow these simple steps for a truly delicious Oven Baked Greek Chicken:
- Prepare the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a steady 400°F (200°C). Ensuring the oven is fully preheated is crucial for even cooking and achieving that perfect golden finish on your chicken and vegetables.
- Craft the Greek Marinade: In a medium bowl or large measuring cup, thoroughly whisk together all the ingredients for the Greek marinade: dried oregano, dried basil, chili flakes, salt, black pepper, paprika, honey Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and low sodium chicken broth. Set this flavorful mixture aside; it will be poured over the dish before baking.
- Season the Chicken: In a separate shallow bowl, prepare your chicken breasts. Drizzle them with olive oil, then generously rub with salt, dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, minced garlic, and black pepper. Ensure each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated, as this initial seasoning layer is vital for building deep flavor.
- Sear for Golden Perfection: Place a large, oven-safe Dutch oven skillet (or a heavy-bottomed pan) over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Pan-sear each side for 2-3 minutes, just until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms. This crucial step locks in moisture and adds a rich depth of flavor that baking alone cannot achieve.
- Assemble the Pan: After searing, turn off the heat. Arrange the additional fresh ingredients around the seared chicken in the Dutch oven. Artfully place the small vine tomatoes, peeled baby shallots, Pearls Specialties Pitted Kalamata Greek Olives, golden Greek pepperoncini, whole garlic cloves, and crumbled feta cheese. This creates a visually appealing and delicious medley of flavors and textures.
- Marinade and Bake: Evenly pour the prepared Greek marinade over all the ingredients in the skillet, ensuring everything is lightly coated. Transfer the Dutch oven to your preheated oven and bake for 17-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken breasts reaches a safe 165°F (74°C). Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Tent the pan loosely with foil wrap and allow the chicken to rest for at least 5 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices within the chicken to redistribute, resulting in incredibly moist and tender meat. After resting, serve immediately and savor the vibrant flavors of your homemade Oven Baked Greek Chicken.
Tips To Make The Best Greek Chicken Recipe
Achieving a truly outstanding Oven Baked Greek Chicken is simple with a few expert tips. These insights will help you maximize flavor, ensure perfect texture, and make your cooking experience even more enjoyable:
- Even Thickness for Even Cooking: To guarantee that your chicken breasts cook uniformly and remain juicy, use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness (about ¾ to 1 inch). This prevents thinner parts from drying out while thicker sections finish cooking, ensuring every bite is tender and perfectly cooked.
- Embrace the Marinade: Do not skip the marinating step! The Greek marinade is packed with incredible flavors from herbs, citrus, and vinegar, which not only tenderize the chicken but also infuse it with a depth of taste that truly defines this dish. Allow the chicken to soak in these aromatic liquids for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for a few hours in the refrigerator.
- Preheat for Perfection: Always ensure your oven is fully preheated to the specified temperature before placing the dish inside. An underheated oven can lead to uneven cooking and can compromise the texture and overall quality of your meal. A hot oven helps to quickly sear the outside and cook the inside evenly.
- Master Doneness with a Thermometer: The most reliable way to check if your chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, avoiding any bones. The chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This prevents overcooking and ensures juicy results every time.
- Pat Dry for a Crisp Finish: If you’re using chicken that was previously frozen, or even fresh chicken, be sure to pat it thoroughly dry with paper towels before seasoning and searing. Excess moisture on the surface can prevent the skin (if applicable) from crisping up and can hinder the seasoning from adhering properly, leading to less flavorful results.
- Versatility with Chicken Cuts: While chicken breasts are specified, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to use other chicken parts such as boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or even bone-in pieces. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different cuts and bone-in options will require longer baking periods to reach the safe internal temperature.
- Patience is Key: Rest Your Chicken: After removing the skillet from the oven, resist the urge to cut into the chicken immediately. Allowing the chicken to rest, loosely covered with foil, for 5-10 minutes is a crucial step. This allows the internal juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in incredibly moist, tender, and flavorful chicken. Cutting too early will cause the juices to escape, leaving you with dry meat.
- Explore More Olive Inspiration: If you find yourself with leftover Pearls Specialties Pitted Kalamata Greek Olives – a rare occurrence once you taste them! – or simply want more creative ideas, follow Pearls Olives on Instagram. They offer fantastic inspiration and a wealth of recipes designed for olive lovers, showcasing the versatility and deliciousness of their products. You can also learn more about their diverse range of olives and discover where to purchase them at Olives.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making and serving this delicious One-Pan Baked Greek Chicken:
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What to serve with Greek Chicken?
This incredibly versatile Greek chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. A simple, crisp side salad tossed with a lemon-herb vinaigrette is always a refreshing choice. For something more substantial, consider roasted potatoes – my Crispy Air Fryer Roasted Potatoes or Crispy Potato Wedges are excellent options, offering a delightful texture contrast. Fluffy rice or quinoa can also absorb the flavorful pan juices, while Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes provide a comforting touch. Steamed green beans or a medley of roasted Mediterranean vegetables would also complement the dish beautifully. -
Can I use chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative for this recipe. They tend to be more forgiving and offer a richer flavor due to their higher fat content. Feel free to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even bone-in, skin-on thighs if you prefer. Just be mindful that different cuts of chicken, especially bone-in varieties, will require an adjustment in cooking time. Boneless chicken cooks faster than bone-in, so always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) safely. -
How do I store and reheat this dish?
Leftover baked Greek chicken is perfect for meal prep! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored safely in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can simply microwave individual portions until warmed through. Alternatively, for best results and to help retain moisture, place the chicken and vegetables in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil, and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. A splash of chicken broth can be added before reheating to prevent drying. -
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can certainly double this recipe to feed a larger crowd or for meal prepping. If your Dutch oven or skillet is not large enough to comfortably accommodate all the chicken and vegetables in a single layer for searing, you may need to sear the chicken in batches. Once seared, combine all ingredients in a larger baking dish or two separate dishes, pour over the marinade, and bake. Ensure there’s enough space in the pan for even heat circulation, which is crucial for proper cooking and browning.
I genuinely hope you cherish every recipe I share, and this mouthwatering One-Pan Baked Greek Chicken is no exception. It’s a dish designed to bring joy and incredible flavor to your table with utmost ease. I encourage you to try it, savor every bite, and share your experience with friends and family. This recipe offers a delightful culinary escape, combining robust Greek flavors with the convenience of a simple, wholesome meal that truly satisfies.
If you make this recipe and find yourself loving its vibrant flavors and ease, please take a moment to leave a star rating and a comment below. Your feedback means the world and helps others discover delicious meals. Don’t forget to use my hashtag to share your culinary creations with me on Instagram – I’d love to see your delicious recreations! For all my latest social posts, kitchen tips, and new recipes, be sure to follow Cookin’ With Mima on FACEBOOK |INSTAGRAM |PINTEREST. Happy cooking!
One Pan Baked Greek Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 cup Pearls Specialties Pitted Kalamata Greek Olives
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 5-6 peeled baby shallots, whole
- 4-6 small vine tomatoes, whole
- 6 clove garlic, whole
- 6 small golden Greek Pepperoncini
- lemon slices
Chicken Seasoning
- 3 whole chicken breast, skinless, pounded to even thickness
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp. oregano, dry
- ¼ tsp. basil, dry
- ¼ tsp. paprika
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp. black pepper
Greek Marinade
- 1 tsp. oregano, dry
- ½ tsp basil, dry
- ½ tsp chili flakes
- ½ tsp salt, or more to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper, fresh ground
- ½ tsp paprika
- 3 tbsp honey Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar, or balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp olive oil
- ½ cup chicken broth, low sodium
- 4 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 whole lemon, juiced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl or cup, mix all the marinade ingredients together. Set aside.
- In another bowl, season the chicken with all the chicken seasoning ingredients.
- Bring a large Dutch oven skillet to high heat, and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Pan-sear the seasoned chicken on each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown on the outside.
- Once done, turn off the heat. Add the remaining ingredients around the chicken: tomatoes, shallots, Pearls Specialties Pitted Kalamata Greek Olives, golden Greek Pepperoncini, whole garlic cloves, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Pour the Greek marinade over the ingredients and bake for 17-20 minutes, until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the skillet from the oven, cover with foil wrap for 5 minutes to rest, and then serve.
Notes
- Pound the chicken with a meat mallet to even the thickness of the chicken breast so they cook evenly.
- Don’t skip marinating the chicken. The marinade adds a ton of flavor to the chicken!
- Make sure the oven is fully heated before adding the dish into the oven. This prevents uneven cooking.
- You can check the doneness of the chicken by using a meat thermometer. Insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. The thermometer should read 165°F (74°C).
- If the chicken was frozen beforehand, be sure to pat dry the chicken so the seasoning sticks well. Moisture can prevent proper browning and seasoning adhesion.
- You can also use any kind of chicken part to make this recipe, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Don’t rush the chicken. It needs to rest so the juices inside the chicken breasts can redistribute. If you cut into them too early, all the juices will come out and the chicken won’t be moist.