Description
This Lemon Oregano Chicken with Mediterranean-Style Salsa is a vibrant and healthy grilled dish featuring marinated chicken breasts infused with zesty lemon and aromatic oregano. Served with a fresh salsa of cherry tomatoes, cucumber, kalamata olives, feta, and herbs, this recipe is perfect for a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired main course that’s both nutritious and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mediterranean Salsa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. This mixture will tenderize and flavor the chicken.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag, then pour the marinade over them ensuring each piece is well coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor infusion.
- Preheat cooking surface: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. This step ensures the chicken cooks evenly and gets a nice sear.
- Cook the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) indicating it’s fully cooked.
- Prepare the salsa: While the chicken cooks, combine cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, sliced Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Gently toss to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Let the salsa rest: Allow the salsa to sit for 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and develop.
- Serve: Plate the grilled chicken breasts and top generously with the Mediterranean-style salsa. Enjoy with a side of couscous, rice pilaf, or warm pita bread if desired.
Notes
- This dish pairs beautifully with couscous, rice pilaf, or warm pita bread.
- For extra flavor, grill lemon slices and serve alongside the chicken.
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier option.
