Every time I make this Mediterranean Chicken Bake with Lemon, Olives and Feta, I’m whisked away to a small seaside town where the air smells of lemon trees and the sea breeze carries the sound of laughter and clinking wine glasses. My first time tasting something like this was during a trip to a quaint Greek island, where a local cook served me a simple chicken dish that sang with flavor. It wasn’t fancy, but the combination of lemon, olives, and feta left an unforgettable imprint on my palate.
Since then, this recipe has become a beloved staple in my home kitchen. I remember recreating it for a casual Sunday dinner with close friends. The table was packed with warm pita bread, a big bowl of hummus and meatballs, and of course, this chicken bake as the centerpiece. The flavors brought us all closer somehow. That’s the power of a dish rooted in tradition and love.
Why This Recipe Is Truly Special
What sets this dish apart isn’t just the vibrant Mediterranean ingredients—it’s the simplicity that makes it both comforting and elegant. The lemon adds a bright zing, the Kalamata olives lend a subtle briny depth, and the feta provides a creamy, salty finish that balances everything out. Best of all, the chicken stays incredibly juicy, soaking up every ounce of that flavorful marinade.
You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to get this kind of bold flavor. A few fresh, quality ingredients, a baking dish, and your oven do all the heavy lifting. It’s also naturally low-carb and gluten-free, making it perfect for a variety of dietary preferences. Plus, it’s just as good for a weeknight dinner as it is for entertaining guests.
Even better? It’s a one-pan wonder. Fewer dishes, more flavor, and a meal that leaves you feeling satisfied without being stuffed.
Ingredients & Preparation
Breaking Down the Mediterranean Magic
This Mediterranean Chicken Bake with Lemon, Olives and Feta is proof that fresh, simple ingredients can yield absolutely stunning results. Each component serves a purpose—there’s no fluff here, just real food coming together in a flavorful harmony.
Below is a quick breakdown of the core ingredients and what they bring to the dish:
| Ingredient | Purpose & Flavor |
|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless) | Tender, juicy protein base that absorbs all the Mediterranean flavors. |
| Olive Oil | Adds richness and helps everything roast beautifully. |
| Garlic (minced) | Fragrant and slightly spicy, it builds depth in the marinade. |
| Lemon Juice & Slices | Brightens the dish and balances the saltiness of feta and olives. |
| Dried Oregano | Earthy and herby, it evokes traditional Greek cooking. |
| Paprika | Adds a subtle warmth and beautiful color. |
| Salt & Black Pepper | Essential for enhancing all other flavors. |
| Kalamata Olives | Salty, slightly fruity—adds complexity and authentic Mediterranean flair. |
| Cherry Tomatoes | They burst as they bake, adding sweetness and juiciness. |
| Red Onion (thinly sliced) | Sweetens when roasted, adding texture and color. |
| Feta Cheese (crumbled) | Creamy and tangy; finishes the dish with richness. |
| Fresh Parsley | Sprinkled at the end for color and a pop of freshness. |
Once everything is assembled, the oven does the rest—leaving you more time to sip wine or prep a side dish like this Greek salad with tzatziki.
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Mediterranean Chicken Bake with Lemon, Olives and Feta
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Bake is loaded with lemony brightness, salty olives, and creamy feta. Perfect for weeknights or dinner parties!
Ingredients
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, sliced thin
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Lemon slices, for garnish
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and coat well. Marinate for 15–20 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer chicken and marinade to a greased 9×13 baking dish.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, and lemon slices around the chicken.
4. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
5. Add crumbled feta cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking.
6. Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley and extra lemon juice.
Notes
– Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts—adjust baking time slightly.
– Goat cheese or vegan feta can be substituted for a different flavor or dietary preference.
– Add a pinch of rosemary or thyme for deeper herb flavor.
– Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
– Not ideal for freezing due to the fresh tomato and dairy content.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Tools You’ll Need + Simple Swaps
You don’t need a fancy kitchen setup to pull off this dish—just a few basics:
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Large mixing bowl – for marinating the chicken.
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Baking dish (9×13 inch) – for even roasting and flavor mingling.
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Sharp knife & cutting board – to prep veggies and herbs.
Possible Substitutions:
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Chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely—they stay extra juicy and flavorful.
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Goat cheese can replace feta if you prefer a creamier, milder profile.
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Green olives work if you don’t have Kalamata, though the flavor will be milder.
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Try using heirloom tomatoes instead of cherry for a more rustic twist.
If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice will do, but fresh juice gives the most vibrant result. Also, while oregano is classic, adding a pinch of thyme or rosemary can deepen the herbaceous aroma.
Pair this prep with a light starter like Mediterranean salmon bake for a full flavor journey from start to finish.
Cooking Instructions & Tips
Step-by-Step: From Oven to Table
Cooking this Mediterranean Chicken Bake with Lemon, Olives and Feta couldn’t be easier, and the results are absolutely satisfying. Here’s how to do it, step by step.
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat thoroughly. Let it sit for at least 15–20 minutes at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
2. Assemble the Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the marinated chicken to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Surround it with halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives. Tuck in a few lemon slices for an extra burst of citrus.
3. Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Around the 20-minute mark, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top and return the dish to the oven. Let it finish baking until golden and bubbling.
4. Garnish & Serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, and optionally, another squeeze of lemon juice right before serving.
Tips for Getting It Just Right
Don’t skip the marinade. Even 15 minutes makes a noticeable difference. The lemon and garlic infuse the meat with brightness and depth.
Use room-temperature chicken. Cold chicken takes longer to cook and can dry out before it’s fully done. Let it rest at room temp during the marinating process.
Watch your feta. Adding it too early can cause it to over-bake. Sprinkling it in the last 10 minutes ensures it melts slightly but stays creamy and rich.
Prefer thighs? Chicken thighs may take slightly longer—check for doneness at around 35 minutes.
Double the batch. This recipe scales wonderfully if you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping. Just don’t overcrowd the baking dish, or the chicken will steam rather than roast.
Want to round out the meal? A warm starter like garlic butter baked scallops makes an irresistible prelude to this flavorful main.
Serving, Storing & Pairing
Perfect Pairings for a Memorable Mediterranean Meal
Once your Mediterranean Chicken Bake with Lemon, Olives and Feta emerges from the oven—bubbling and golden—you’ll want to serve it up with sides that highlight its rich, citrusy flavors.
This dish plays beautifully with fresh, herby sides and light grains. A chilled Mediterranean chickpea salad loaded with cucumber, mint, and red onion offers a cool contrast to the warm chicken. Or serve it over a bed of Greek pasta salad for a heartier presentation.
Want to keep things extra traditional? Add some toasted pita triangles or lemony couscous and a dollop of tzatziki on the side. A drizzle of good olive oil and a light white wine—like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio—completes the experience.
And don’t forget: this chicken bake is equally comfortable as a weeknight dinner or a star dish at a weekend gathering. The aromas alone will have everyone gathering in the kitchen.
Smart Storage & Simple Reheating
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this dish holds up wonderfully—and the flavors deepen even more overnight.
Storage Instructions:
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Let the chicken cool completely before storing.
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Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
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You can also freeze portions (without garnishes like parsley) for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tips:
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For best results, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10–15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
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Microwave method: Add a splash of broth or lemon juice and reheat in 30-second bursts to maintain moisture.
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If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Pair the leftovers with something new the next day, like tossing the chicken into a fresh hummus and meatball bowl or wrapping it up in a warm pita for a Mediterranean-inspired wrap.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this Mediterranean chicken bake ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can marinate the chicken and assemble everything in the baking dish the night before. Just cover tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes while the oven preheats.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta or want a milder option, goat cheese or even crumbled queso fresco can work well. For a dairy-free version, try a vegan feta alternative—it’ll still give you that creamy, tangy finish.
Is it okay to use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a fantastic substitute. They tend to be juicier and slightly more forgiving in the oven. Just add about 5 extra minutes to the baking time and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
Can I double the recipe for a dinner party?
Definitely! Just be sure to use a larger or additional baking dish to avoid overcrowding. This ensures the chicken roasts properly and doesn’t steam.
What should I do if I don’t have cherry tomatoes?
No problem! You can use chopped roma tomatoes or grape tomatoes instead. Just avoid overripe ones so they don’t break down too much during baking.
Does this dish freeze well?
It does. Cool completely, skip the fresh parsley garnish, and portion into airtight containers. It will freeze for up to 2 months and still reheat beautifully.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Chicken Bake with Lemon, Olives and Feta is more than just a meal—it’s a joyful expression of flavor and simplicity. Each bite carries a taste of sun-soaked coastlines, where simple ingredients are treated with care and cooked with heart. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner or a lively gathering, it promises to impress without the stress.
If you enjoyed this dish, you’ll also love this zesty variation from our friends at Dizzy Busy and Hungry: Easy Lemon Feta Chicken. It’s another satisfying option packed with citrus and feta flair.
And for a lighter lunch the next day, try pairing your leftovers with our refreshing Mediterranean-style Chicken Piccata—a perfect balance of tangy and savory.