Mediterranean Chicken Bake with Lemon, Olives & Feta

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Description

Mediterranean Chicken Bake with Lemon, Olives & Feta is a wholesome, vibrant dish packed with fresh Mediterranean flavors. Juicy chicken breasts or thighs are oven-baked with zesty lemon, briny olives, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and aromatic herbs, then finished with crumbled feta cheese. It’s light yet satisfying, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or even a special gathering.

Ingredients For Mediterranean Chicken Bake with Lemon, Olives & Feta

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 lemon (½ sliced into rounds, ½ juiced)

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh)

  • ½ tsp dried thyme

  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted

  • ½ cup green olives (optional)

  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Prepare Chicken: Pat chicken dry, season with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and minced garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.

  3. Arrange in Baking Dish: Place chicken in a baking dish. Scatter sliced onions, cherry tomatoes, and olives around. Top with lemon slices.

  4. Bake: Roast for 30–35 minutes (breasts) or 40–45 minutes (thighs) until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.

  5. Finish with Feta: Sprinkle crumbled feta on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.

  6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm with rice, couscous, or crusty bread.

Notes

  • You can use bone-in chicken thighs for extra juiciness (increase cook time by 10–15 minutes).

  • If you like more sauce, add ¼ cup chicken broth or white wine before baking.

  • Red onions can be swapped with shallots or bell peppers for sweetness.

  • For a low-carb version, serve with cauliflower rice or a green salad.

Tips

  • Marinate the chicken for 30 minutes (up to overnight) for deeper flavor.

  • Use high-quality olives and feta for authentic Mediterranean taste.

  • Add artichoke hearts or zucchini for extra veggies.

  • If feta is too salty, rinse lightly under cold water before crumbling.

Servings

  • Serves 4 people

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 365

  • Protein: 35g

  • Fat: 20g

  • Carbohydrates: 10g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sugar: 3g

  • Sodium: 720mg

Health Benefits

  • High in protein: Keeps you full and supports muscle health.

  • Rich in antioxidants: Tomatoes, onions, and lemon provide vitamin C and anti-inflammatory benefits.

  • Heart-healthy fats: Olives and olive oil provide monounsaturated fats.

  • Bone support: Feta cheese adds calcium and protein.

  • Mediterranean diet inspired: Linked to improved heart health and longevity.

Q & A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, assemble everything in the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, but thaw fully first for even cooking.

Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: Rice, quinoa, couscous, roasted potatoes, or a fresh Greek salad.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Absolutely—just omit the feta or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or microwave.

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