Mediterranean Chicken

This Mediterranean Chicken is a flavorful and healthy dish featuring tender, juicy chicken infused with olive oil, garlic, lemon, and aromatic Mediterranean spices. Paired with fresh vegetables, olives, and feta, this dish is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. Serve it with rice, couscous, or a fresh salad for a complete Mediterranean feast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Bold Mediterranean Flavors – Lemon, garlic, oregano, and olives bring authentic taste.
• Healthy & Protein-Rich – A nutritious meal loaded with lean protein and fresh ingredients.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile & Customizable – Serve over pasta, rice, or with pita bread.
• Meal-Prep Friendly – Stores well for easy lunches or dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Marinade:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• Garlic (minced)
• Oregano (dried or fresh)
• Paprika
• Cumin (optional, for extra depth)
• Salt & black pepper

For the Mediterranean Toppings:

• Cherry tomatoes (halved)
• Red onion (sliced)
• Kalamata olives (pitted, halved)
• Feta cheese (crumbled)
• Fresh parsley (chopped)

Optional Additions:

• Artichoke hearts
• Roasted red peppers
• Spinach or arugula

Directions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Mix the Marinade – In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the Chicken – Add the chicken to the marinade, coating well. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a Skillet or Grill Pan – Over medium-high heat, add a little olive oil.
2. Cook Chicken – Sear for 5-6 minutes per side (or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C)).
3. Rest & Slice – Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice or serve whole.

Step 3: Assemble & Serve

1. Top with Mediterranean Ingredients – Arrange sliced chicken on a plate and top with tomatoes, red onion, olives, feta, and parsley.
2. Drizzle with Olive Oil & Lemon – For extra flavor, drizzle with more olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
3. Enjoy! – Serve with rice, quinoa, couscous, or warm pita bread.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: 20 minutes (optional)
• Cook Time: 12 minutes

Variations

• Mediterranean Chicken Bowls – Serve over quinoa or brown rice with hummus.
• Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or harissa to the marinade.
• Dairy-Free Version – Skip the feta or use dairy-free cheese.
• Slow Cooker Version – Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours with all ingredients combined.
• Oven-Baked Mediterranean Chicken – Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet or microwave with a splash of broth to keep moist.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes! Adjust cooking time to 7-8 minutes per side for bone-in thighs.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.

What can I serve with this dish?

Try roasted potatoes, tzatziki sauce, or a Greek salad.

Can I make this in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I make it extra juicy?

Marinate longer and avoid overcooking—use a meat thermometer!

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu and follow the same seasonings.

Can I cook this in the oven?

Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, depending on thickness.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes! Store the chicken and toppings separately for best freshness.

What’s the best way to grill this chicken?

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, cook for 5-6 minutes per side, and let rest before slicing.

Can I add a sauce?

Yes! Drizzle with tzatziki, hummus, or a yogurt garlic sauce.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Chicken is packed with fresh, bold flavors and is incredibly easy to make. Whether served in a bowl, over grains, or with warm pita, it’s a delicious and healthy meal you’ll want to make again and again. Try this recipe today for a taste of the Mediterranean at home!

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