Baked Feta Chicken: A Delicious and Easy Weeknight Dinner

Baked Feta Chicken: A Delicious and Easy Weeknight Dinner

Are you searching for a recipe that combines rich flavors with minimal effort? Baked Feta Chicken is the answer. This dish brings together the creamy, tangy taste of feta cheese with tender chicken breasts, all baked to perfection. It's a perfect recipe for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying yet simple to prepare.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen. With just a few key items, you can create a flavorful and wholesome dish.

Packed with Flavor: The combination of feta cheese, tomatoes, and herbs gives this dish a Mediterranean-inspired taste that's hard to resist.

Healthy and Satisfying: Chicken is a lean protein, and when paired with feta and vegetables, it makes for a nutritious meal that’s both filling and delicious.

Ingredients

To make Baked Feta Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 block (about 8 oz) of feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will ensure the chicken cooks through while allowing the feta to become soft and slightly golden.

2. Prepare the Chicken and Feta

Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Season them with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme on both sides. Arrange the halved tomatoes around the chicken in the dish.

3. Add the Feta and Garlic

Crumble the feta cheese over the chicken breasts, spreading it evenly. Add the minced garlic to the dish, ensuring it’s distributed among the tomatoes and chicken.

4. Drizzle with Olive Oil

Pour the olive oil over the chicken, feta, and tomatoes. This helps keep the chicken moist and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully as it bakes.

5. Bake the Chicken

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The feta should be soft and slightly browned, and the tomatoes should be tender and juicy.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will give the best flavor. If you only have dried herbs, you can use them, but the taste will be slightly different.
• Check the Chicken Temperature: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Serve with Sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or even a bed of quinoa or rice.

Serving Suggestions

• Baked Feta Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways:
• Over Pasta: Toss the chicken and tomatoes with your favorite pasta for a hearty meal.
• With Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices from the baking dish.
• On a Salad: Slice the chicken and serve it over a fresh salad with a drizzle of the pan juices as dressing.

Variations

• Spicy Baked Feta Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dish before baking for a spicy kick.
• Lemon Herb Chicken: Add fresh lemon slices and a squeeze of lemon juice to the dish before baking for a citrusy twist.
• Vegetable-Packed: Include other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach in the baking dish for added nutrients and color.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but be sure to do so in short intervals to avoid drying out the chicken.

Conclusion

Baked Feta Chicken is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors. Whether you're feeding the family on a weeknight or looking for an easy yet impressive meal to serve guests, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Give it a try, and you'll have a new favorite dish that's not only delicious but also easy to make!

Share :