Greek Oven Baked Chicken Breast
User Reviews
4.9
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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marinate
1 hr
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Total Time
1 hr 30 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
481 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Greek
Greek Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Description
This Greek-inspired baked chicken uses a citrus and herb marinade combining olive oil, lemon juice and zest, oregano, garlic powder, and fresh basil or herbs. After seasoning with salt and pepper, the chicken breast is coated in the marinade and baked until cooked through and moist. The chicken is then allowed to rest briefly before being chopped and mixed with a topping of fresh chopped tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
The marinade imparts a bright, slightly tangy flavor to the tender chicken breasts, while the topping brings contrasting textures and savory notes. The baking method produces evenly cooked chicken with a subtle herbaceous flavor from the oregano and basil. The dish balances juicy poultry with sharp feta and briny olives, creating a satisfying plate with Mediterranean character.
Serve this chicken dish as a protein-focused main alongside a simple salad or grains. The fresh topping adds moisture and complexity to the chicken pieces, making this an appealing option for lunches or dinners. Marinating ahead enhances flavor and tenderness, though it can be baked immediately after seasoning as well.
Variations can include skipping the feta to reduce fat content or using chicken thighs for richer flavor. Olive or avocado oil work well in the marinade. Allow the chicken to reach room temperature before baking for even cooking. Don’t overcook to maintain juiciness, and check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 medium lemon juiced
- lemon zest of 1 medium
- 1 teaspoon oregano dried
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons basil parsley, or oregano, minced, fresh
- 2 Pounds chicken breast boneless and skinless
- salt to taste, kosher salt
- black pepper to taste, kosher salt
- 1 cup cherry tomato or grape tomato, chopped
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 1 small red onion chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350F.
- In a small bowl whisk the oil, lemon juice, zest, seasonings, and basil or herbs of choice.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides and place in a medium oven-safe dish.
- Pour over the prepared greek-style dressing. If time allows, you can marinate the chicken for 1 hour, or overnight, keeping it in the oven dish. (Just before roasting, allow it to sit for 30 minutes over the counter to get to room temp!)
- Bake for 25-35 minutes
- Once the chicken is done (an internal thermometer inserted into each reads 165F), remove it from the oven. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes, then chop into large chunks and place back into the dish.
- Top with tomatoes, olives, onions, and feta.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Marinate chicken for at least 1 hour or overnight to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs as a substitute for a richer taste and moistness.
- Different oils like avocado or olive oil work well in the marinade depending on preference.
- Skip feta cheese if reducing fat and calories is desired without compromising the overall flavor profile.
- Allow chicken to rest after baking to redistribute juices before chopping and serving.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 481 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 481kcal | 24% |
| Carbohydrates | 9g | 3% |
| Protein | 52g | 104% |
| Fat | 26g | 40% |
| Saturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3g | 18% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 14g | 70% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 162mg | 54% |
| Sodium | 1323mg | 55% |
| Potassium | 1035mg | 22% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 463IU | 9% |
| Vitamin C | 28mg | 31% |
| Calcium | 141mg | 14% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.