If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bright Mediterranean flavors yet incredibly simple to prepare, you’re going to love this Oven-Baked Greek Chicken Breast Recipe. It’s all about juicy chicken infused with zesty lemon, fragrant oregano, and that perfect garlic kick, baked to tender perfection with a golden finish. This recipe doesn’t just satisfy your taste buds, it makes weeknight dinners feel like a mini vacation in the Greek isles, and once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients keep things delightfully straightforward, proving that simple pantry staples can create a dish that’s both flavorful and impressive. Each component plays its own role, from the olive oil bringing richness and helping to lock in moisture, to the lemon juice adding essential brightness that lifts the entire plate.
- 2 chicken breasts: Choose ones that are evenly sized for consistent cooking and juicy results.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds a fruity depth and keeps the chicken tender.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key for that authentic Greek tang and freshness.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano: This classic Mediterranean herb delivers an earthy, slightly minty flavor that defines the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds savory warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other ingredients and seasons the chicken perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives just a hint of heat to balance the bright lemon and herbs.
How to Make Oven-Baked Greek Chicken Breast Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is essential to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and develops a nice golden surface that signals it’s ready to be devoured.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This simple yet vibrant marinade is the heart of the Oven-Baked Greek Chicken Breast Recipe, imparting the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and herbal notes.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Rub the marinade all over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to seep deep into the meat, keeping the chicken exceptionally moist during baking.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken breasts into a baking dish in a single layer. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork. The result should be perfectly tender chicken with a lightly crisped outer layer.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest briefly before serving. This gives the juices time to redistribute, making every bite succulent and delicious. You’re now ready to enjoy one of the most satisfying versions of the Oven-Baked Greek Chicken Breast Recipe.
How to Serve Oven-Baked Greek Chicken Breast Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your chicken’s vibrant flavors with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill. These garnishes not only add color but also a fresh aroma that complements the earthy oregano beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your Greek chicken with simple, Mediterranean-inspired sides. Think warm pita bread, a crisp cucumber and tomato salad, or fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs. Each side helps to balance the richness of the chicken and rounds out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual dinner, slice the chicken breasts and serve them over a bed of mixed greens drizzled with tzatziki sauce. Or, assemble a Greek-inspired grain bowl with quinoa, olives, roasted vegetables, and crumbled feta for a colorful, nutritious presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Oven-Baked Greek Chicken Breast Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, making it a great choice for quick lunches or dinner the next day.
Freezing
This chicken freezes well if you want to save some for future meals. Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain its texture and flavor.
Reheating
To keep the chicken juicy when reheating, warm it gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes, or in a microwave covered with a damp paper towel to avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will bring a bit more fat content and flavor, and this recipe works equally well with skinless, boneless thighs. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a few minutes longer.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping since the chicken stays moist and flavorful after reheating. Preparing the marinade ahead and baking the chicken in batches saves time during busy weeks.
Can I add fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Fresh garlic will enhance the dish with a more robust aroma. Use one or two minced cloves mixed into the marinade, but be mindful of slightly stronger flavors compared to garlic powder.
What can I do if I don’t have dried oregano?
You can substitute with fresh oregano if available—use about three times the amount since fresh herbs are less concentrated. Alternatively, Italian seasoning or thyme offers a nice herbal flavor that complements the dish.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken breasts are cooked when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear when pierced. Using a meat thermometer is the safest way to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
Final Thoughts
This Oven-Baked Greek Chicken Breast Recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to add a little Mediterranean sunshine to their dining table without fuss. Its bright flavors, minimal ingredients, and straightforward method make it a reliable favorite to keep in your dinner rotation. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how such a simple dish can feel so special and satisfying!
Print
Oven-Baked Greek Chicken Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Oven-Baked Greek Chicken Breast recipe offers a simple and flavorful way to prepare juicy chicken breasts infused with a classic Mediterranean blend of olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines fresh, aromatic ingredients with healthy cooking.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts
Marinade
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the chicken evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are fully combined, creating a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Rub the marinade over both sides of the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is evenly coated to absorb the Greek-inspired flavors.
- Bake the chicken: Place the marinated chicken breasts in a baking dish. Bake them in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, firm to the touch, and the juices run clear when pierced with a knife.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest briefly. Serve warm, optionally garnished with extra lemon slices and freshly chopped herbs like parsley or oregano for enhanced flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For more flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours before baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is safely cooked.
- This recipe is great served with a side of Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf.
- Extra marinade can be reserved and heated to drizzle over the cooked chicken as a sauce.
