Easy Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes

Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes

If you’re craving a vibrant, wholesome dinner that bursts with Mediterranean flavors, this Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes is exactly what you need. It combines tender chicken, salty feta, tangy olives, and juicy tomatoes into one easy, satisfying bake that’s perfect for any weeknight or special occasion. The blend of simple fresh ingredients and bold seasonings creates a dish that feels both comforting and exciting – ready in under an hour and guaranteed to impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless prep: A one-pan bake that saves time without sacrificing flavor.
  • Flavor-packed: Classic Greek ingredients combine for a perfect balance of savory and tangy notes.
  • Healthy and hearty: Protein-rich chicken with nutrient-loaded veggies and healthy fats from olives.
  • Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, making dinner stress-free and enjoyable.
  • Perfect for leftovers: Tastes even better the next day when flavors meld together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes means gathering simple, fresh ingredients that each bring a unique touch to the dish. Every element plays a role in creating the perfect texture, aroma, and color combination that makes this recipe shine.

  • Chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, they stay moist during baking and soak up flavors beautifully.
  • Feta cheese: Crumbled feta adds creamy tang and a satisfying salty bite.
  • Kalamata olives: Briny and bold, these olives elevate the dish with their distinctive Greek character.
  • Cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add freshness and a burst of color.
  • Garlic cloves: Minced garlic infuses the dish with warm, aromatic depth.
  • Fresh oregano: A classic Greek herb that brightens and rounds out the flavor profile.
  • Olive oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil ties everything together with richness and moisture.
  • Lemon juice: Adds a vibrant citrusy zing to balance the saltiness.
  • Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and highlight all the other flavors.

Variations for Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes

One of the best things about this Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re catering to dietary needs or just want to switch things up, there are plenty of ways to make it your own.

  • Protein swaps: Try chicken breasts or even turkey thighs for a leaner or different texture.
  • Cheese alternatives: Swap feta with goat cheese or halloumi for a creamy twist.
  • Veggie add-ins: Add zucchini slices, bell peppers, or red onion for extra color and nutrients.
  • Herb variations: Use thyme, rosemary, or dill instead of oregano for a new herbal note.
  • Spice it up: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a hint of heat.
Easy Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes

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

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Start by patting your chicken thighs dry and seasoning them generously with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. This ensures the chicken will crisp nicely on top while baking.

Step 2: Arrange in the baking dish

Place the chicken thighs in a single layer in your baking dish. Scatter halved cherry tomatoes, pitted Kalamata olives, and minced garlic all around the chicken to build layers of flavor.

Step 3: Add herbs and feta

Sprinkle fresh oregano over the top, then crumble the feta cheese evenly across the dish. The feta will melt slightly while baking, creating luscious pockets of salty creaminess.

Step 4: Drizzle with lemon and olive oil

Pour fresh lemon juice and a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over everything. This brightens the flavors while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.

Step 5: Bake to perfection

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 35-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the tomatoes are soft and slightly blistered. The aroma will fill your kitchen with irresistible Mediterranean scents.

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

  • Use bone-in chicken: For maximum juiciness and flavor, bone-in thighs are the best choice.
  • Don’t skimp on quality feta: Authentic Greek feta makes a huge difference in taste and texture.
  • Pat dry chicken first: Helps achieve crispier skin during baking.
  • Let it rest: Allow the bake to sit 5 minutes after cooking so juices redistribute for a tender bite.
  • Experiment with herbs: Fresh oregano is ideal, but dried works in a pinch—just use less.

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

Garnishes

Finish your dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or extra oregano to add a bright green touch and fresh herbal aroma.

Side Dishes

This bake pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, warm pita bread, or a simple Greek salad to soak up all those delicious juices.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve portioned chicken straight from the baking dish on rustic platters surrounded by roasted vegetables or couscous for a beautiful Mediterranean-inspired feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover chicken bake in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors become even more intense after sitting.

Freezing

This dish freezes well—store portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through, to preserve texture and flavor better than microwaving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, though they tend to be leaner and can dry out more easily, so watch the baking time closely and consider marinating first.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes uses naturally gluten-free ingredients, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can omit the feta or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp, dry white wine like Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc complements the tangy feta and bright lemon flavors beautifully.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the chicken before baking for a gentle heat boost.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a meal that is bursting with flavor, easy to prepare, and endlessly adaptable, this Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes is a must-try. Its vibrant ingredients and comforting textures make it a standout dish perfect for busy nights or sharing with friends and family. Give it a go—you might just find your new favorite go-to dinner!

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Greek Chicken Bake with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes

A vibrant and wholesome Greek Chicken Bake bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Tender, juicy chicken thighs baked with salty feta, briny Kalamata olives, sweet cherry tomatoes, garlic, fresh oregano, lemon juice, and olive oil. This one-pan meal is effortless to prepare, healthy, family-friendly, and perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

  • Author: Gloria
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Total Time: 45-50 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Greek
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 46 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on preferred for juiciness)

Cheese

  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese

Produce

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 34 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
  • Optional garnish: fresh parsley or extra oregano, chopped

Pantry

  • 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper, then drizzle with olive oil to help crisp the skin during baking.
  2. Arrange in the baking dish: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer in your baking dish. Scatter halved cherry tomatoes, pitted Kalamata olives, and minced garlic evenly around the chicken to build layers of flavor.
  3. Add herbs and feta: Sprinkle freshly chopped oregano over the dish. Crumble feta cheese evenly on top to create creamy, salty pockets as it bakes.
  4. Drizzle with lemon and olive oil: Pour fresh lemon juice and a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over all ingredients to brighten flavors and keep the chicken tender.
  5. Bake to perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, skin is crispy, and tomatoes are soft and slightly blistered. The dish will fill your kitchen with enticing Mediterranean aromas.
  6. Rest before serving: Allow the bake to rest for 5 minutes after removing from oven so juices redistribute and chicken remains tender.

Notes

  • Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the best flavor and juiciness.
  • Choose authentic Greek feta for superior taste and texture.
  • Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help achieve a crispy skin.
  • Let the dish rest briefly after baking for juicier chicken.
  • Fresh oregano is preferred but dried oregano can be used; reduce quantity if dried.
  • Try variations like swapping chicken thighs for breasts or turkey thighs for a different texture.
  • Cheese alternatives such as goat cheese or halloumi work well.
  • Add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or red onion for extra color and nutrients.
  • Spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
  • Freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes to preserve texture.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1 chicken thigh with toppings)
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: Greek chicken bake, feta chicken, Mediterranean dinner, chicken with olives and tomatoes, healthy chicken bake, baked chicken recipe

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