Ingredients
For the lemon oregano chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 lemons (zest from 1 & juice from all 3)
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Mediterranean-style salsa:
- 1¼ cup English cucumber, diced (about ¾-1 whole cucumber)
- 1 cup tomatoes, chopped
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 large avocado, diced
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 Tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or ½ tsp dried dill)
- ½ Tbsp lemon juice
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Add the chicken breasts and turn to coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for enhanced flavor.
- Preheat the oven: Once marinated, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Sear the chicken (optional): For extra color and flavor, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear each chicken breast for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown. This step is optional but adds nice texture.
- Bake the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish, seared side up if seared. Spoon some leftover marinade over each breast. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-22 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, you can skip searing and bake directly.
- Prepare the Mediterranean salsa: In a large bowl, combine diced cucumber, chopped tomatoes, Kalamata olives, finely chopped red onion, diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh dill, and lemon juice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve: Spoon the prepared Mediterranean-style salsa generously over each baked chicken breast and serve immediately. Enjoy a fresh, tangy Mediterranean meal!
Notes
- Marinating chicken overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness but 30 minutes is sufficient for a quick meal.
- Searing chicken prior to baking is optional but adds a golden crust and deeper flavor.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- The Mediterranean salsa can be made a few hours ahead and refrigerated; add avocado last minute if preferred to avoid browning.
- This dish pairs well with a side of rice, couscous, or a green salad.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
