A delicious Mediterranean-inspired chicken dinner featuring tender, juicy chicken breasts baked with fresh lemon, garlic, aromatic herbs, briny Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese. This easy one-pan meal is full of fresh flavors and perfect for a healthy family dinner.
Preparation & Cooking Time
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Marinating Time: 20 minutes (optional)
– Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
– Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½–2 lbs)
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Mediterranean Topping
– ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
– ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– ½ red onion, thinly sliced
– ½ teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnishing
– Fresh parsley, chopped
– Lemon slices
– Extra crumbled feta
– Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
3. Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Herb Marinade
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, rosemary, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Allow the chicken to marinate for 20 minutes if time permits.
Step 3: Arrange the Chicken
1. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
2. Arrange the cherry tomatoes and sliced red onion around the chicken.
3. Scatter the Kalamata olives evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
4. Drizzle the remaining olive oil and lemon juice over everything.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
2. Bake uncovered for approximately 20–25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken.
3. Check the thickest part of the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Add the Feta Cheese
1. Remove the baking dish carefully from the oven.
2. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
3. Return the dish to the oven for another 5–8 minutes, until the feta is warmed and the vegetables are tender.
4. Avoid overcooking the chicken.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
1. Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes.
2. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley.
3. Add lemon slices and extra black pepper.
4. Spoon the flavorful lemon, olive, and tomato juices from the baking dish over the chicken.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
– Serve with fluffy basmati rice or lemon herb rice.
– Pair with roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes.
– Serve alongside a fresh Mediterranean cucumber and tomato salad.
– Add steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
– Enjoy with warm pita bread or quinoa.
Storage Instructions
– Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
– Store chicken and vegetables with their cooking juices to maintain moisture.
– Reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals.
– Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2–3 months for best quality.
– Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutritional Information
Estimated per serving, based on 4 servings without additional side dishes.
Nutrient Amount
Calories 420 kcal
Protein 48 g
Carbohydrates 9 g
Fat 22 g
Saturated Fat 6 g
Fiber 2 g
Sugar 4 g
Sodium 950 mg

Nutritional values may vary depending on chicken size, feta brand, olives, and added salt.
Nut Information & Allergen Details
– Tree Nuts: No tree nuts included.
– Peanuts: No peanuts included.
– Almonds: Not included.
– Walnuts: Not included.
– Cashews: Not included.
– Pistachios: Not included.
– Dairy: Contains feta cheese.
– Gluten: Naturally gluten-free when all packaged ingredients are verified gluten-free.
– Eggs: No eggs included.
– Soy: No soy ingredients included in the standard recipe.
Allergy Note: Always check ingredient labels for possible cross-contamination, especially feta cheese, olives, and packaged seasonings. For anyone with a serious nut allergy, use products confirmed safe for their specific allergy.
Questions & Answers (Q&A)
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work perfectly. They are naturally juicy and flavorful. Adjust the cooking time as needed and cook to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Q2: Can I use green olives instead of Kalamata olives?

Absolutely! Green olives are a delicious alternative and provide a slightly different, tangy flavor.

Q3: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Season the chicken and prepare the vegetables up to 24 hours ahead. Keep everything covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Q4: Can I make this recipe without feta cheese?

Yes! Simply omit the feta or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Q5: Is this Lemon Herb Chicken Bake keto-friendly?

Yes! The chicken, olives, feta, and vegetables are relatively low in carbohydrates, making this recipe suitable for many low-carb and keto-style meal plans.

Q6: Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All the main ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Check packaged seasonings and other products before using.

Q7: Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Zucchini, bell peppers, artichoke hearts, spinach, and mushrooms are excellent additions.

Q8: How do I keep the chicken moist?

Avoid overbaking, use olive oil and lemon marinade, and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Q9: Can I freeze this chicken bake?

Yes! Cool completely, portion into airtight freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2–3 months for best quality.

Q10: What can I serve with Lemon Herb Chicken Bake?

It pairs wonderfully with Mediterranean rice, roasted potatoes, quinoa, Greek salad, steamed vegetables, or warm pita bread.

Q11: Is this recipe high in protein?

Yes! Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, while feta cheese adds additional protein and flavor.

Q12: Can I reduce the sodium content?

Yes! Use low-sodium feta, reduce or omit added salt, and choose lower-sodium olives. This can significantly reduce the sodium content.