You are going to fall in love with this vibrant and flavorful Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe! It’s a perfect balance of juicy chicken thighs or breasts infused with bright lemon, aromatic oregano, and garlic, all cooked simply in one pan for a stress-free meal. The cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta add bursts of color and authentic Mediterranean taste that make every bite sing. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress friends, this recipe delivers warmth, freshness, and classic Greek flair all in one skillet.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe are wonderfully straightforward, yet each one plays a vital role in delivering luscious flavor and texture. Fresh herbs, tangy lemon, and savory spices come together to create the perfect Mediterranean melody, while things like olives and feta cheese bring that iconic Greek taste to your plate.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for juicier results or breasts for a leaner option.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Divided to help marinate and sear for that perfect golden crust.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: The quintessential Greek herb bringing earthy, piney notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth of flavor without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Offers gentle sweetness and rounds out the spice mix.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the vibrant flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just a hint of heat and complexity.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Brightens the chicken and adds that signature Mediterranean tang.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Bursting with juicy sweetness and color contrast.
- 1/3 cup sliced Kalamata olives: Briny and tangy, they offer a distinctive olive flavor.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Creamy and salty, the perfect finishing touch.
- 2 tablespoons chopped red onion: Adds crunch and sharpness to balance.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh, herbaceous garnish to lift the dish.
How to Make Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining your chicken with one tablespoon of olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and fresh lemon juice in a large bowl. Toss everything well so the chicken is evenly coated. Letting the chicken marinate for 15 to 30 minutes really allows those Mediterranean flavors to penetrate the meat deeply. If you have more time, pop it in the fridge for up to eight hours—this will boost flavor and tenderness even more.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure there’s enough space to achieve a beautiful golden sear without overcrowding. Cook each side for 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and beautifully browned. The quick sear locks in juices and develops flavor, making every bite succulent and delicious.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Remove the chicken to a clean plate, then toss the halved cherry tomatoes and red onions into the same skillet. Sauté them for 2 to 3 minutes until softened but still vibrant. The sizzling juices left from the chicken meld with these veggies, creating a flavorful base that elevates the entire dish.
Step 4: Combine and Warm Through
Return the chicken to the skillet along with the Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese. Give it all a gentle mix and warm together for 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese softens just slightly. This last step warms the olives and melds all the flavors harmoniously without overcooking the cheese or chicken.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley. This bright herb adds a final fresh pop that perfectly complements the rich, savory, and tangy flavors that have developed. Serve your beautiful creation warm and watch everyone fall in love bite after bite.
How to Serve Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the go-to garnish here, but you can also add a sprinkle of extra crumbled feta or a lemon wedge on the side. These accents not only add visual appeal but also allow each diner to customize the bright, zesty notes just for their taste.
Side Dishes
Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe shines when served alongside fluffy rice, fluffy couscous, or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. For a more authentic touch, pair it with warm pita bread and a refreshing dollop of tzatziki sauce. These sides soak up all the delicious juices and transform the meal into a complete Mediterranean experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, plate your Greek chicken atop a bed of lightly dressed mixed greens or a Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. You can also turn it into a wholesome wrap with soft flatbreads and a drizzle of tzatziki. Serving this dish family-style straight from the skillet is another great way to create a rustic, inviting atmosphere at your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Skillet Greek Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the chicken and the vegetable mixture together so the flavors continue to mingle. This makes for an easy lunch or next-day dinner that tastes just as good.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor retention. Freezing does slightly soften the texture of the tomatoes, but the overall dish remains delicious and perfect for a quick meal later on.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid high heat to keep the feta from becoming grainy and the chicken juicy. Adding a splash of olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice when reheating helps refresh the vibrant flavors.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine if you prefer white meat, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful due to their higher fat content. Just watch your cooking time to avoid drying out the breasts.
Is it okay to marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight or up to eight hours in the fridge will intensify the flavors and tenderize the chicken even more, making your meal extra delicious and juicy.
Can I substitute dried oregano with fresh oregano?
You certainly can! If using fresh oregano, use about three times the amount since fresh herbs are less concentrated than dried. Add it mostly toward the end of cooking to preserve its brightness.
What can I serve with this dish to make it a full meal?
Serving the Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe with sides like rice, couscous, a crisp Greek salad, or warm pita bread rounds out the meal perfectly and adds textural variety to every bite.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you serve it without any gluten-containing sides. Just be cautious with store-bought add-ons like pita or marinades to keep it safe.
Final Thoughts
This Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites for good reason. It’s approachable, incredibly flavorful, and so satisfying after just one skillet and a short cook time. I can’t recommend it enough for anyone craving a taste of the Mediterranean with minimal fuss. Give it a try and enjoy the magic of Greek flavors in your own kitchen—you won’t regret it!
Print
Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 15-30 minutes marinating; up to 8 hours if desired)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Skillet Greek Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs or breasts marinated in lemon and oregano, pan-seared to a golden brown and topped with fresh cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Finished with bright parsley, it’s a flavorful and easy one-pan meal inspired by Mediterranean flavors that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a wholesome lunch.
Ingredients
Chicken & Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for marinade)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
Cooking & Toppings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup sliced Kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken with 1 tablespoon olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Toss everything thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and let it marinate for 15 to 30 minutes, or refrigerate up to 8 hours for deeper flavor infusion.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer in the hot skillet. Cook undisturbed for 5 to 6 minutes per side until each side is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Tomatoes and Onion: In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped red onion. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the onions become translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet, nestling them among the softened tomatoes and onions. Sprinkle the sliced Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese over the top. Warm everything together for 1 to 2 minutes over low heat, allowing the cheese to warm without melting entirely.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat, sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve the chicken warm. It pairs wonderfully with rice, couscous, or a fresh green salad.
Notes
- Serve over rice, couscous, or a bed of mixed greens for a complete meal.
- Add sliced cucumbers or a dollop of tzatziki on the side to enhance the Greek flavors.
- Marinate the chicken longer (up to 8 hours) for a more intense lemon and oregano flavor.
- Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat, or breasts for a leaner option.
- Adjust salt to taste, especially if adding salty feta or olives.
