A quick and flavorful one-pan Mediterranean chicken dish with bright lemon, softened feta, and fresh herbs. Ready in about 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each), pounded to even thickness
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (preferably from a block)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
Instructions
Pat chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season generously on both sides with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Press seasonings in lightly to adhere.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Add chicken breasts and cook undisturbed for 6 to 7 minutes per side until deep golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Do not press down on the chicken while it cooks.
Reduce heat to medium-low. Add minced garlic and stir constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant. Watch carefully so it does not burn.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and sprinkle with lemon zest.
Sprinkle crumbled feta over each chicken breast. Allow the feta to soften and warm through from the residual heat, about 1 minute. Feta will not fully melt but will become creamy and soft.
Remove from heat. Top with fresh parsley and dill.
Let chicken rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving to keep the juices locked in.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
If chicken breasts are thicker than 1 inch, slice in half horizontally before seasoning for faster, more even cooking.
Crumble your own block feta for creamier texture. Pre-crumbled feta is drier and does not soften as well.