If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful, and utterly satisfying dinner, this Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe will quickly become your go-to. Picture tender, juicy chicken thighs infused with aromatic herbs and spices, simmered in bright lemon juice and savory chicken broth, then crowned with tangy feta, briny Kalamata olives, sweet cherry tomatoes, and crisp red onions. This dish is a beautiful harmony of colors and tastes that brings a Mediterranean sunshine to your plate, all in one easy skillet meal you can whip up any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe calls for a handful of simple but essential ingredients that together build layers of flavor, texture, and color. Each one plays a starring role to make sure every bite bursts with authentic Greek charm.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, they stay moist through cooking and soak up all those delightful herbs and spices.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For perfectly searing the chicken and adding that rich, fruity Mediterranean touch.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Greek herb that brings warmth and earthiness to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds subtle floral and slightly minty notes to complement the oregano.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For that essential savory kick without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the chicken with a sweet and mild depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Gives a hint of smoky sweetness and beautiful color to the seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and brings out the taste of every ingredient.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Brings brightness and a tangy zing that lifts the whole dish.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist while adding savory background notes.
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese: The star topping that adds creamy, salty richness.
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives (halved): These bring briny, slightly fruity bursts of flavor that perfectly complement the feta.
- 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced): Adds sharpness and a crunchy contrast.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): Juicy and sweet, they soften gently in the skillet and add a pop of color.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Fresh and herbaceous, it finishes the dish with a vibrant green touch.
How to Make Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
Start by mixing together the oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This fragrant blend is the secret behind that authentic Greek flavor. Pat the chicken thighs dry to ensure they sear beautifully, then rub both sides generously with the seasoning mix. This helps the spices cling and creates a beautifully golden crust later.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken thighs carefully so they don’t crowd the pan, and sear each side for 4 to 5 minutes. You want a gorgeous golden brown crust that locks in those juices. This step sets the foundation of flavor, so don’t rush it.
Step 3: Simmer with Lemon and Broth
Once the chicken is seared, reduce the heat to medium. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and chicken broth, then cover the skillet with a lid. Let the chicken simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes. During this time, the chicken absorbs the bright lemon tang and stays tender and juicy as it finishes cooking through.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
Take off the lid, then scatter the crumbled feta cheese, halved Kalamata olives, thinly sliced red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes over the chicken. Let everything cook together uncovered for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until warmed through. The cheese softens slightly, the olives add bursts of flavor, and the tomatoes release a bit of their natural sweetness.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top just before serving. This final touch brings a fresh, mild herbal note and a pop of green that makes the dish as pretty as it is delicious.
How to Serve Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A few extra crumbles of feta and a sprinkle of additional fresh parsley really enhance the presentation and flavor. For a bit more zing, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon over each serving brightens up the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice or orzo to soak up all those flavorful juices. Roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers also complement the Mediterranean flavors perfectly while adding extra texture and color to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun entertaining idea, serve the chicken atop a bed of warm pita bread so guests can scoop up the chicken and toppings just like a gyro. Alternatively, pile it over a fresh Greek salad or serve alongside tzatziki for dipping to bring even more of that summery Greek vibe to your meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken and toppings will keep well for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy this Greek-inspired dish again for lunch or dinner without any fuss.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe, but it’s best to do so without the fresh parsley garnish and any raw tomato slices to maintain texture and freshness. Freeze in a sealed container and use within 2 months for optimal taste.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the tender meat. Refresh with a sprinkle of fresh parsley after reheating for that just-cooked appeal.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well too, just keep in mind they cook faster and can dry out if overcooked. Adjust your simmering time accordingly and monitor closely for juicy results.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses simple, whole ingredients without any wheat or gluten-containing sauces.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can season the chicken a few hours in advance or even the night before to deepen the flavor. However, it’s best to cook it fresh for the most tender, flavorful results.
What if I don’t have Kalamata olives?
Regular black olives or green olives can be a good substitute, though Kalamata olives bring a distinctive briny sweetness that really enhances the dish’s character.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Sure thing! Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mixture or a dash of cayenne pepper if you like a little heat to balance the flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both special and effortlessly simple to make. From the first bite, you’ll be hooked by its bright, fresh Mediterranean flavors, juicy tender chicken, and the perfect balance of savory and tangy toppings. It’s a recipe that speaks hospitality, comfort, and a touch of sunshine on your dinner table—definitely one to try again and again.
Print
Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Skillet Greek Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make one-pan meal featuring succulent boneless chicken thighs seasoned with classic Mediterranean herbs and spices. Cooked on the stovetop and finished with tangy feta cheese, kalamata olives, fresh cherry tomatoes, and red onion, this dish offers a perfect balance of savory and fresh flavors. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, it pairs wonderfully with rice, orzo, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Toppings and Garnish
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, combine dried oregano, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a uniform seasoning blend.
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Rub both sides of the chicken thoroughly with the prepared seasoning mixture to coat evenly.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Simmer the chicken: Reduce the heat to medium, pour in the lemon juice and chicken broth, then cover the skillet with a lid. Let the chicken simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
- Add toppings: Remove the lid and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese, halved kalamata olives, sliced red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes over the chicken. Cook uncovered for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the toppings to warm and flavors to meld.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot alongside your choice of rice, orzo, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Serve with rice, orzo, or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- For extra lemon flavor, add lemon zest to the seasoning mix.
- You can substitute chicken breasts if preferred—adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
