If you’re craving something bright, fresh, and packed with Mediterranean vibes, you’re going to adore this Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that feels both comforting and light at the same time, with tender, juicy chicken soaked in vibrant lemon and oregano flavors, perfectly complemented by creamy feta and cool tzatziki. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a casual gathering, this recipe is truly a winner that brings a rainbow of colors and tastes to your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, bringing out authentic Greek flavors, exciting textures, and that perfect balance of tangy, savory, and fresh.
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed: The star protein, tender and perfect for quick cooking in the skillet.
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and tenderizes the chicken while enhancing that classic Greek profile.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brightens the marinade and adds an essential zesty kick.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for cooking): Keeps the chicken juicy and adds rich, fruity notes.
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Gives a subtle sharpness to complement the lemon.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano: The quintessential Greek herb that infuses the chicken with earthy aroma.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For that irresistible depth of flavor everyone loves.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances every ingredient, balancing the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper: Adds a gentle heat without overwhelming.
- 1 cup English cucumber, diced: Adds crunch and refreshing coolness.
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, diced: Bursting with sweet juiciness and color.
- 3/4 cup feta crumbles: Creamy, salty, and absolutely essential for that Greek charm.
- 3/4 cup tzatziki sauce (I like Cedar’s brand): A creamy yogurt-cucumber dip that ties the entire dish together.
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced: Adds a mild bite and lovely purple punch of color.
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives: Briny and bold, they add a touch of Mediterranean magic.
How to Make Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by tossing your cubed chicken in a large bowl with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper. This marinade is a mix of tangy and herbal goodness that gently infuses into the meat, making each bite flavorful and tender. Pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or even better, let it soak for up to 24 hours to maximize the flavors. Remember to take it out before cooking to let it come to room temperature so it cooks evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken in the Skillet
Heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated chicken cubes in a single layer – don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure a nice sear. Cook the chicken for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until it’s no longer pink in the center and the edges develop a lovely golden brown crust. The aroma while cooking is simply intoxicating and will make your kitchen feel like a sunny taverna by the Aegean Sea.
Step 3: Assemble the Toppings
While the chicken is sizzling, prep the fresh toppings—diced cucumbers, juicy grape tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta. Each topping brings its own unique texture and flavor, layering freshness, saltiness, and sweet acidity right on top of the chicken.
Step 4: Serve with Tzatziki Sauce
Once cooked, plate the chicken and crown it with all those gorgeous toppings. Drizzle or dollop the creamy tzatziki sauce generously over everything. This cool, garlicky sauce balances the warmth of the chicken and ties all components together into one harmonious bite. You can serve it straight from the skillet or chilled, depending on your mood!
How to Serve Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your presentation with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or dill for added color and flavor. A wedge of lemon on the side invites a quick squeeze for an extra bright finish. Toasted pine nuts are a delightful crunch that elevates the texture and adds a slightly nutty dimension.
Side Dishes
This chicken is so full of flavor and freshness that it pairs beautifully with simple sides. Think fluffy couscous or fluffy rice pilaf to soak up all those tangy juices. Or keep it light with a classic Greek salad or some warm pita bread on the side to scoop up all the goodness. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini also complement this dish wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to jazz it up for guests? Serve the chicken over a bed of orzo pasta tossed in lemon and olive oil for a Mediterranean-inspired bowl. Or layer it inside warm pita pockets with extra tzatziki and crunchy lettuce for easy, handheld Greek chicken sandwiches. For a vibrant party platter, arrange the chicken and toppings on a large platter with pita triangles and a tzatziki dip bowl in the center.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (and that’s often hard to avoid!), store the cooked chicken and the fresh toppings separately in airtight containers. Keeping the toppings separate prevents them from wilting and makes for a fresher tasting meal the next day.
Freezing
The cooked chicken freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, leaving the toppings and tzatziki sauce for fresh prep later. When frozen properly, it will keep well for up to three months, making meal prep or quick dinners a breeze.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat to avoid drying it out. If needed, add a splash of olive oil or water to help it stay moist. Keep the toppings chilled and add them fresh after reheating to maintain their vibrant crunch and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are great for this recipe and tend to be juicier. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs can take a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts.
Is Greek yogurt necessary for the marinade?
Greek yogurt is key for tenderizing the chicken and adding a creamy tang. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with plain yogurt, but Greek yogurt creates the best texture and authentic flavor.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Since there are no gluten-containing ingredients here, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, perfect for anyone avoiding gluten without any modifications.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
While 30 minutes is the minimum for flavor, marinating up to 24 hours in the refrigerator enhances the depth of the marinade, making the chicken even more flavorful and tender.
What’s the best way to enjoy leftovers?
Leftover Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe is delicious in wraps or salads, or simply enjoyed cold with an extra dollop of tzatziki. It makes for a refreshing lunch or quick snack any time.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about this Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe that keeps me coming back for more. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for company, filled with the bright, fresh flavors that make Greek food so beloved. I hope you’ll give it a try and create some delicious memories around your table, just like I have!
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Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Skillet Greek Chicken recipe is a flavorful and healthy dish featuring tender marinated chicken breasts cooked in a skillet and topped with fresh Mediterranean ingredients like cucumber, tomatoes, feta, Kalamata olives, and creamy tzatziki sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, it combines tangy lemon, oregano, and garlic with wholesome vegetables for a satisfying and vibrant meal that can be enjoyed hot or cold.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for cooking)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
Toppings
- 1 cup English cucumber, diced
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, diced
- 3/4 cup feta crumbles
- 3/4 cup tzatziki sauce (e.g., Cedar’s brand)
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, kosher salt, and ground pepper. Stir thoroughly to coat all the chicken pieces evenly. Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor. When ready to cook, remove the bowl from the fridge and let it come to room temperature.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken cubes in a single layer. Cook the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside with the edges browning slightly.
- Prepare the Toppings: While the chicken cooks, dice the English cucumber, grape or cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Measure out the feta crumbles, Kalamata olives, and tzatziki sauce to have ready for serving.
- Assemble and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, serve it with the fresh toppings arranged on the side or on top. The dish can be enjoyed warm right away or served cold, making it versatile for any season. For leftovers, store the chicken separately from the vegetables and sauces to preserve freshness.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for longer (up to 24 hours) will enhance the flavor and tenderness.
- If you prefer, you can grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet.
- Using authentic Greek yogurt and high-quality feta cheese will boost the dish’s authenticity and taste.
- This dish can be served as a main course or chopped and served over greens for a Greek-inspired salad.
- Store leftover chicken and toppings separately to maintain texture and freshness.
