Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes

If you’re craving a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right into your kitchen, this Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes is an absolute winner. Bursting with juicy chicken, creamy feta cheese, briny olives, and sweet roasted tomatoes, this recipe effortlessly blends freshness with hearty comfort. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests, so let’s dive into a dish that’s destined to become a new favorite in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Mediterranean flavors: The combination of feta, olives, and tomatoes creates that authentic Greek taste you’ll want again and again.
• Easy and fuss-free: Minimal ingredients and one-baking-dish convenience makes dinner straightforward and satisfying.
• Perfectly balanced texture: Juicy chicken is complemented by creamy feta and slightly chewy olives for each delightful bite.
• Versatile for any occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, this dish is always a hit.
• Nutritious ingredients: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and colorful veggies, it’s as wholesome as it is tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes starts with simple, quality ingredients. Each one brings a unique texture and flavor that ties the whole dish together while keeping it fresh and vibrant.

• Chicken thighs or breasts: Choose boneless, skin-on chicken for juicy, tender bites that roast beautifully.
• Cherry tomatoes: Their sweetness softens in the oven, adding a burst of color and fresh tang.
• Kalamata olives: These olives lend a lovely salty, slightly bitter contrast to the mild feta.
• Feta cheese: Crumbled feta delivers the creamy, salty richness that’s signature to Greek cooking.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with savory warmth.
• Olive oil: A generous drizzle brings richness and helps all ingredients roast evenly.
• Lemon juice: Adds a bright, zesty note that wakes up the flavors.
• Dried oregano: Classic Greek herbs that enhance the Mediterranean vibe.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, bringing all the flavors together perfectly.

Variations for Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes

This dish is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to mix it up to suit your pantry or dietary needs. The base recipe is a fantastic canvas for endless tweaks.

• Vegetarian swap: Replace chicken with hearty eggplant or zucchini slices for a veggie-packed version.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili for a subtle heat lift.
• Herb swap: Experiment with fresh rosemary, thyme, or dill instead of oregano for different aromatic layers.
• Add potatoes: Toss in baby potatoes or sweet potatoes to make the bake even more filling.
• Use chicken breasts: Swap thighs for breasts if you prefer leaner meat, just watch the cooking time.

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

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the chicken and pat dry, then place in your baking dish. Halve the cherry tomatoes, mince the garlic, and crumble the feta cheese.

Step 2: Season the chicken

Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and a splash of lemon juice. Rub the seasonings evenly into the meat to ensure every bite is flavorful.

Step 3: Add tomatoes, olives, and garlic

Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and minced garlic evenly around the chicken. These will roast along with the chicken, releasing their juices and infusing the dish with flavor.

Step 4: Bake until golden

Place the baking dish in the oven and roast for 35-45 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Add the feta cheese

Five minutes before the bake finishes, sprinkle the crumbled feta evenly over the top. Return to the oven just long enough for the feta to soften without melting completely.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy

Once baked, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. The flavors will have melded into a soul-satisfying meal ready to be devoured.

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

• Use room temperature chicken: It cooks more evenly and stays tender.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking dish: Give ingredients space so everything roasts rather than steams.
• Opt for good quality olives: Their flavor really shines and elevates the dish.
• Gently toss ingredients halfway: To ensure even roasting and flavor distribution.
• Skip the feta if you prefer: Or substitute with goat cheese or mozzarella for a different texture.

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

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped oregano brightens the plate and adds fresh herbal notes right before serving.

Side Dishes

This bake pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, warm pita bread, or a crisp Greek salad to balance the richness and embrace the Mediterranean spirit.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve straight from the rustic baking dish for a cozy dinner feel, or plate it on individual dishes with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a wedge of lemon on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to enjoy later.

Freezing

This dish freezes well; just pack leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through to keep textures delicious.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! Chicken breasts can be used, but they tend to cook faster and can dry out, so watch your cooking time carefully.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely. The Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes contains no gluten ingredients, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Simply omit the feta or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative to make the dish suitable for dairy-free preferences.

What type of olives work best for this recipe?

Kalamata olives are ideal for their bold, briny flavor, but you can also use other black or green olives depending on your taste.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prepare and season everything the day before, then bake fresh when ready to serve for even more convenience.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes is a true celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together in harmony. Whether you’re new to Greek flavors or a longtime fan, this recipe offers a warm, delicious experience that’s easy to prepare and impossible not to love. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of Mediterranean sunshine at your table tonight.

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