If you are craving something fresh, vibrant, and packed with Mediterranean flair, this Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe is an absolute winner. The tender, thin-sliced chicken breast soaks up the bright, zesty lemon marinade infused with garlic, oregano, and smoky paprika, transforming every bite into a harmonious dance of flavors. Topped with creamy feta and fresh parsley, this dish strikes the perfect balance between tangy, savory, and herbaceous, making it an effortless yet impressive meal for weeknights or special occasions alike. Once you try this Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites for easy, wholesome, and irresistible dining.

The image shows a metal pan filled with five grilled pieces of chicken in the center, with a golden-brown color and some char marks. The chicken is served on a bed of crumbled white cheese mixed with herbs, scattered evenly around and on top. A lemon slice is placed in the middle on top of the chicken, along with a small bunch of fresh rosemary. In the background, two small white bowls hold chopped red tomatoes and green herbs. The surface is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple ingredients that each play a vital part in building layers of flavor is what makes this Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe shine. From the brightness of fresh lemon to the distinct saltiness of feta, each component brings something essential to the table, making your cooking process straightforward and rewarding.

Lemon (juice and zest): Provides a refreshing, citrusy tang that awakens the chicken and brightens the dish.

Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps emulsify the marinade for even flavor distribution.
Garlic cloves or garlic powder: Introduces a savory punch that complements the lemon beautifully.
Dried oregano: Brings that unmistakable Mediterranean herb aroma that defines Greek cuisine.

Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth with a hint of warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
Sea salt: Enhances all the seasonings and balances the acidity.
Coarse black pepper: Offers a mild heat and complexity to the marinade.

Thin-sliced chicken breast: Cooks quickly and soaks up the delicious marinade perfectly.
Feta cheese: Crumbled on top to lend salty creaminess and a tangy finish.
Fresh chopped parsley: Provides a burst of herbaceous color and freshness at the end.

Additional lemon wedges: For garnishing and an optional extra citrus kick when serving.

How to Make Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by combining the lemon zest and juice with olive oil, finely minced garlic (or garlic powder), dried oregano, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Whisk everything until emulsified—the lemon oils mingling with the olive oil create a luscious marinade that will soak into the chicken and infuse it with incredible flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Reserve about a quarter cup of the marinade for serving later, then add the thin-sliced chicken breasts into the bowl with the remaining marinade. Using tongs, coat each piece evenly, ensuring every bite will be juicy and flavorful. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes—this rest period lets the chicken soak up the vibrant Mediterranean blend fully.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle a little olive oil once it’s hot. Carefully place the marinated chicken into the skillet in a single layer, letting it cook undisturbed until the bottom turns golden brown, approximately 4 to 5 minutes. This step locks in moisture and develops beautiful caramelization.

Step 4: Flip and Finish Cooking

Turn the chicken over and continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes until cooked through and the juices run clear when sliced. Keeping the pieces thin ensures a quick cook time that preserves tenderness and flavor.

Step 5: Plate and Garnish

Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving plate and drizzle the reserved marinade over the top to replenish that zesty freshness. Finally, sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese, adding layers of creaminess and color that make the dish as beautiful as it is delicious.

How to Serve Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe

Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Adding fresh herb garnishes and lemon wedges not only enhances the appearance of your Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe but also boosts its flavor. Parsley adds a refreshing crunch and color pop, while the lemon wedges let everyone customize their citrus brightness at the table.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with classic Greek sides like fluffy couscous, garlic roasted potatoes, or even a crisp Greek salad. The creamy feta and zesty chicken harmonize best with simple, fresh accompaniments that complement without overpowering.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, serve the chicken over a bed of warm pita bread or alongside grilled vegetables to ramp up the Mediterranean vibe. You can even turn it into a wrap with tzatziki sauce for a casual yet satisfying lunch option that keeps the Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe exciting and versatile.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it just as enjoyable—or even better—the next day.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. When freezing, it’s best to hold off on adding fresh parsley and crumbled feta until you reheat, as they maintain their texture and freshness better that way.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven to avoid drying out the chicken. If reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results. Add the reserved marinade or a splash of water to keep things moist, and finish with fresh parsley and feta after warming.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of thin-sliced breast?

Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs or breasts will work fine, but cooking times will be longer. Make sure to marinate longer and cook thoroughly to ensure juicy, flavorful results.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative. The chicken and marinade will still be delicious and full of Mediterranean zest.

Can I prepare the marinade a day ahead?

Yes, preparing the marinade a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated and combine with the chicken when ready to marinate.

What type of paprika is best for this recipe?

Smoked paprika is preferred here because it adds a subtle smoky flavor that complements the lemon and garlic, but sweet paprika can also be used if smoked is not available.

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear when sliced—this ensures safe consumption while keeping the meat tender and juicy.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe is a fantastic way to bring bright lemony freshness together with hearty, savory feta and herbs in a simple yet show-stopping dish. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and always invites compliments from guests or family alike. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making this at home and experience just how delightful Mediterranean cooking can be. Trust me, once you savor this, it will be a regular star in your meal rotation!

Greek Chicken with Lemon and Feta Recipe