If you are craving a vibrant, fresh, and delightfully tangy dinner, the Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe is your new go-to. This dish balances tender, juicy chicken infused with the bright flavors of lemon, oregano, and garlic, with a colorful medley of cucumber, tomatoes, feta, and Kalamata olives. It’s a hands-on yet straightforward recipe that brings a little Mediterranean sunshine to your table. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish to share, this recipe delivers on both taste and simplicity.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients right is the first step toward creating the perfect Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe. Each ingredient works together harmoniously to build layers of flavor, texture, and that signature Mediterranean freshness.
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed: Choose fresh chicken for juicy, tender bites that soak up the marinade.
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt: This adds creaminess and a subtle tang, helping tenderize the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens every component and gives a vibrant zing.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A splash of rich olive oil ensures the chicken stays moist while cooking.
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Adds depth and a slight bold acidity for balance.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano: The classic Greek herb that brings authentic, earthy aroma and flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a punch of savory essence, complementing the herbs beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper: Adds a mild warmth that ties into the overall taste profile.
- 1 cup English cucumber, diced: Offers crisp freshness and a cool crunch contrasting the warm chicken.
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, diced: Bursting with sweetness and acidity, these brighten up every bite.
- 3/4 cup feta crumbles: Tangy and creamy with a salty kick, feta brings that unmistakable Greek touch.
- 3/4 cup tzatziki sauce (I like Cedar’s brand): This creamy cucumber yogurt sauce adds cooling creaminess and a hint of dill.
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced: Adds sharpness and color, balancing the creamy and herbal notes.
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives: Salty and slightly fruity, olives lift the dish with a satisfying bite.
How to Make Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts with the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, kosher salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir so the chicken is evenly coated with this flavorful marinade. Pop it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours if you’re planning ahead. This step is key for infusing every bite with incredible flavor and keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken in a Skillet
When you’re ready to cook, remove the chicken from the fridge to take off the chill. Heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for golden-brown edges and no pink remaining in the center. Cooking them this way locks in all the seasoning and ensures each piece stays buttery soft inside while developing a slight crisp outside.
Step 3: Prepare the Fresh Toppings
While the chicken cooks, chop up the cucumber, grape or cherry tomatoes, red onion, and toss in the Kalamata olives and feta crumbles. These vibrant toppings not only add bursts of color but also offer fresh crunch, creamy saltiness, and briny notes that elevate the overall profile of the dish. Set these aside and ready your tzatziki sauce for the final touch.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
You can serve the chicken piping hot straight from the skillet or chilled if you prefer a lighter dish. Arrange the cooked chicken on a platter and scatter the fresh toppings on top or on the side. Dollop generous spoonfuls of tzatziki sauce to add that rich, cool Mediterranean flair. This is the moment where your skillet Greek chicken recipe truly shines — vibrant, fresh, and absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes are your secret weapon to turning this humble skillet dish into a feast for the eyes and palate. Fresh chopped parsley or dill sprinkled over the top brightens the flavors and adds a lovely herbal aroma. Adding lemon wedges on the side invites guests to add an extra citrusy burst. Consider dusting a little smoked paprika for color contrast and subtle smoky warmth.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple yet complementary sides. A warm pita bread or crusty loaf is perfect for scooping up the delicious juices and creamy tzatziki. If you prefer something lighter, a crisp Greek salad or a bowl of herbed quinoa or couscous adds satisfying texture without overpowering the main event. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers bring a comforting earthiness to balance the bright chicken flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your skillet Greek chicken recipe into a spectacular centerpiece by serving it family-style on a large rustic platter with all the toppings piled high. Another fun idea is to build individual bowls with rice or orzo at the base topped with chicken, veggies, feta, olives, and a generous drizzle of tzatziki. For a casual party or picnic, try wrapping everything up in warm flatbreads for delicious Greek-inspired wraps.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the cooked chicken and the fresh toppings separately in airtight containers. This prevents the salad and toppings from becoming soggy and helps retain their bright flavors. The chicken will keep fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days, making for easy next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
Freezing cooked Greek chicken is possible but keep in mind the fresh toppings and tzatziki sauce do not freeze well. For best results, freeze the cooked chicken portions in airtight freezer-safe containers or bags. When defrosted, reheat gently and add fresh toppings and tzatziki after warming for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat your Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe, warm the chicken slowly in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of olive oil to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the chicken. Once heated through, add the fresh toppings and tzatziki for that perfect finishing touch that tastes just like the first time.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even juicier and more forgiving during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs might take a little longer to cook through.
Do I have to marinate the chicken overnight?
Not at all! While marinating for 24 hours infuses more flavor, even just 30 minutes will give you a tasty, tender result that’s perfect for a quick dinner.
Is there a substitute for tzatziki sauce?
If you don’t have tzatziki on hand, plain Greek yogurt mixed with minced cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill makes a quick and delicious homemade alternative.
Can this Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free if you avoid adding any bread sides or use gluten-free flatbreads. All the main ingredients are safe and delicious for gluten-free diets.
What’s the best way to serve this if I’m hosting a party?
Serving family-style on a large platter with all the toppings on the side lets guests customize their plates. Offering warm pita bread and fresh lemon wedges alongside creates a memorable, interactive meal experience.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that feels both comforting and bright, indulgent and fresh, all at once—and that’s exactly what the Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe brings to your table. It’s simple enough for weeknights but impressive enough to serve to guests, bursting with flavors that make you want to come back for more. I can’t wait for you to make this your favorite new recipe—trust me, it’s a winner every time!
Print
Skillet Greek Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Skillet Greek Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring marinated chicken breasts cooked to juicy perfection in a skillet. Served with fresh Mediterranean toppings like cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and creamy tzatziki sauce, this recipe offers a delicious and easy meal perfect for any day of the week. With a quick marination and simple stovetop cooking, it’s both healthy and satisfying.
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, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, kosher salt, and ground pepper. Stir well to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor. Remove from the fridge about 10 minutes before cooking to take the chill off the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat approximately 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, turning carefully, until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and develops a golden-brown exterior.
- Prepare to Serve: Arrange the cooked chicken on a serving platter or individual plates. Top with diced cucumber, tomatoes, diced red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Spoon tzatziki sauce over the top or serve on the side. This dish can be enjoyed warm straight from the skillet or chilled for a refreshing cold meal.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Reheat the chicken gently or enjoy cold, pairing again with the fresh toppings.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken longer (up to 24 hours) enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts if preferred; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- To make this dish low sodium, reduce or omit the added salt and use low-sodium feta and olives.
- For a gluten-free meal, ensure the tzatziki sauce is free of gluten-containing additives.
- If you want a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade or sprinkle on the cooked chicken.
- This recipe is excellent for meal prep and can be enjoyed throughout the week.
