How to Make Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes

Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes

If you’ve ever craved a dish that perfectly balances vibrant Mediterranean flavors with simple preparation, this Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes recipe is your next go-to. Bursting with juicy chicken, tangy feta, briny olives, and sweet roasted tomatoes, this bake combines fresh ingredients that celebrate the essence of Greek cuisine. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish offers a rich, wholesome experience that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flavor Explosion: Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of salty feta, savory olives, and sweet tomatoes that awaken your taste buds.
  • Easy to Prepare: Minimal prep and simple steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
  • Healthy Ingredients: Lean chicken breast combined with fresh veggies keeps the dish nutritious without sacrificing taste.
  • Versatile Meal: Perfect for dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining guests with minimal effort.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Everything bakes together in one dish, meaning fewer pots and an easier clean-up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes depends on a handful of simple but essential ingredients, each bringing its own unique layer of flavor, texture, and vivid color. Fresh and pantry staples come together to create a dish that feels both rustic and refined.

  • Chicken breasts: The lean protein base that becomes tender and juicy as it bakes.
  • Feta cheese: Crumbly and tangy, it adds a creamy saltiness that elevates the whole dish.
  • Kalamata olives: Briny and slightly fruity, they provide bursts of bold flavor throughout.
  • Cherry tomatoes: Roasted until sweet and mellow, these bring vibrant color and juiciness.
  • Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic infuses aromatic depth and warmth.
  • Olive oil: Used for roasting and drizzling, it enhances richness and mouthfeel.
  • Dried oregano: A classic Greek herb that adds an earthy, peppery note.
  • Lemon juice: Brightens the dish with fresh acidity and complements the feta.
  • Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all ingredients into balance.
  • Red onion: Sliced thin for mild sweetness and subtle crunch.

Variations for Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes

One of the best things about this Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes is how flexible it is to tweak for your preferences. Feel free to swap or add ingredients to cater to dietary needs or simply experiment to find your perfect version.

  • Use chicken thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a richer, more succulent texture.
  • Add bell peppers: Include sliced red or yellow peppers for extra sweetness and crunch.
  • Go vegan: Replace chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, and omit feta for a plant-based meal.
  • Spice it up: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a subtle heat kick.
  • Herb swap: Replace oregano with fresh thyme or rosemary for a different herbaceous twist.
How to Make Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes

How to Make Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse and pat dry the chicken breasts, then season them generously with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Slice the red onion thinly, halve the cherry tomatoes, mince the garlic, and crumble the feta cheese.

Step 2: Arrange the Chicken and Veggies

In a medium baking dish, spread out the chicken breasts evenly. Scatter the cherry tomatoes, sliced onions, minced garlic, and Kalamata olives all around and on top of the chicken. Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice over everything for bright flavor and moisture.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the tomatoes are softened and blistered. Halfway through baking, add the crumbled feta cheese over the chicken and veggies to melt slightly and get that creamy finish.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or oregano, then serve your delicious Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes warm with your favorite side dishes.

Pro Tips for Making Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes

  • Room temperature chicken: Let the chicken sit out for 15 minutes before baking for even cooking.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Make sure ingredients have space to roast, avoiding steaming.
  • Use quality feta: Opt for authentic Greek feta for the best creamy and tangy flavor.
  • Fresh lemon juice: Always use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for a brighter flavor.
  • Let it rest: Allow the bake to rest after cooking to lock juices into the chicken.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes

Garnishes

Add fresh chopped parsley or oregano on top just before serving, and optionally toss in some lemon zest for extra brightness and a pop of color that complements the dish visually and flavor-wise.

Side Dishes

This bake pairs wonderfully with a simple Greek salad, fluffy couscous, or even creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all the delicious juices. For a lighter option, a side of steamed green beans or roasted asparagus works beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve directly in the baking dish for a rustic feel or plate individually with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a wedge of lemon. For casual dining, place the chicken bake over cooked orzo pasta mixed with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer cooled leftovers into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for an easy next-day lunch or dinner option that retains flavor and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze this bake in portions by placing cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through to maintain the best texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the chicken rubbery and the feta dry.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?

Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or ricotta salata if you prefer a different texture or milder flavor, though the classic tangy taste of feta pairs best with this dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! This Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes contains no gluten ingredients, making it safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.

How long will this dish keep in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, leftovers should stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I add other vegetables to this bake?

Definitely! Ingredients like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers make great additions and complement the Mediterranean flavors nicely.

What is the best way to ensure tender chicken?

Avoid overcooking by monitoring the internal temperature to reach 165°F and letting the chicken rest after baking to keep it juicy and tender.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes is more than just a meal; it’s a vibrant celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients coming together with effortless charm. It’s perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors without the fuss, and once you try it, this dish will quickly become a shining star in your recipe rotation. Grab your ingredients, fire up the oven, and enjoy the irresistible tastes of Greece right in your own kitchen.

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Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes

Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes is a vibrant Mediterranean dish featuring tender baked chicken breasts combined with tangy feta cheese, briny Kalamata olives, and sweet roasted cherry tomatoes. Easy to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors, this wholesome one-pan meal is perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or casual entertaining. It balances savory, salty, and bright notes in a healthy and satisfying way.

  • Author: Judy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Greek
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4 chicken breasts

Dairy

  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese

Vegetables & Fruits

  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Pantry & Herbs

  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse and pat dry the chicken breasts, then season them generously with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Slice the red onion thinly, halve the cherry tomatoes, mince the garlic, and crumble the feta cheese.
  2. Arrange the Chicken and Veggies: In a medium baking dish, spread out the chicken breasts evenly. Scatter the cherry tomatoes, sliced onions, minced garlic, and Kalamata olives all around and on top of the chicken. Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice over everything for bright flavor and moisture.
  3. Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the tomatoes are softened and blistered. Halfway through baking, add the crumbled feta cheese over the chicken and veggies to melt slightly and get that creamy finish.
  4. Finish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or oregano, then serve your delicious Greek Chicken Bake warm with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

  • Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking for even cooking.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; spread ingredients out to allow roasting instead of steaming.
  • Use authentic Greek feta cheese for best creamy and tangy flavor.
  • Always use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for a brighter taste.
  • Allow the bake to rest after cooking to lock in the juices and maintain tenderness.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 37 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg

Keywords: Greek chicken bake, chicken with feta, Mediterranean chicken, baked chicken with olives, healthy chicken recipe, one-pan chicken bake

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