Introduction
I first stumbled upon this Skillet Greek Chicken recipe during a week when I was craving something light yet flavorful. My family is always looking for quick and healthy dinners, and I knew this dish would be a hit from the start. The combination of juicy marinated chicken, the freshness of cucumber and tomato, and the rich creaminess of tzatziki sauce had everyone at the dinner table asking for seconds. Not only was it easy to make, but the Mediterranean flavors added a much-needed twist to our regular dinner rotation. Since then, it’s become a go-to dish for both weeknight meals and meal prep. Whether you’re craving a low-carb option or a hearty dinner with pita bread, this recipe is adaptable, fresh, and full of bold flavors that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Skillet Greek Chicken
This Skillet Greek Chicken is a perfect blend of convenience and flavor. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and just a few ingredients, you can have a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes.
- Packed with Flavor: The marinade infuses the chicken with Mediterranean spices, and the fresh toppings bring brightness and crunch.
- Healthy and Versatile: Low-carb and gluten-free, this dish is perfect for those watching their carbs or looking for a light dinner. It’s also great for meal prep!
- Customizable: Whether served with greens, pita bread, or over rice, you can tailor the dish to fit your preferences.
- Kid-Friendly: The flavors are vibrant yet familiar, making it a hit with both adults and kids.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 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 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
For Toppings:
- 1 cup English cucumber, diced
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, diced
- 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3/4 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours). If you’re pressed for time, even a 30-minute marination will work wonders.
- Allow the chicken to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking for even cooking.
- Cook the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and no longer pink in the center (an internal temperature of 165°F ensures it’s cooked through).
- Assemble and Serve
- Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a serving plate and top with diced cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives.
- Drizzle with tzatziki sauce and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: 360 calories
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 38g
Note: Nutrition may vary depending on specific brands and serving sizes. For a more precise calculation, adjust the ingredients accordingly.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Marinating time: 30 minutes (up to 24 hours for best flavor)
- Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes (for marinating + cooking)
How to Serve
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the Skillet Greek Chicken over a bed of fresh greens like spinach, arugula, or mixed lettuce for a light, healthy meal.
- With Pita or Naan: For a heartier meal, pair the chicken with warm pita bread or naan to scoop up the toppings and tzatziki sauce.
- Over Rice: Serve the chicken over cauliflower rice or regular rice for a complete meal.
- As Meal Prep: Store the chicken and toppings separately in containers. This dish stays fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge, making it perfect for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
- With Extra Lemon: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top for extra brightness and tang.
Additional Tips
- Make Ahead: Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper, more developed flavors. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
- Grilling Option: For a smoky, charred flavor, grill the marinated chicken on medium-high heat instead of cooking it in a skillet. This adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Toppings Variations: Feel free to experiment with other Mediterranean toppings like roasted red peppers, fresh parsley, or avocado for added richness.
- Homemade Tzatziki: If you have extra time, making your own tzatziki sauce is simple. Just combine Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of dill or mint for a refreshing sauce.
- Meal Prep Tip: Store the chicken and toppings separately to keep them fresh. Combine them just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.
FAQ Section
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Yes! Chicken thighs will work beautifully in this recipe. They’re more tender and juicy, but ensure to cook them thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Can I use a different type of yogurt?
- Yes, you can use regular yogurt if you don’t have Greek yogurt, but Greek yogurt will give the marinade a thicker consistency and a more tangy flavor.
- How long can I marinate the chicken?
- You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes or up to 24 hours for the best flavor. However, avoid marinating for more than 24 hours as the chicken might become too tender.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, this Skillet Greek Chicken is gluten-free. Just make sure to serve it without pita or naan if you’re following a strict gluten-free diet.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
- To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil. For the toppings, you can serve them cold or at room temperature.
- Can I make this dish dairy-free?
- Yes, you can substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt, and omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free feta.
- What if I don’t have red wine vinegar?
- You can substitute red wine vinegar with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a similar tangy flavor.
- Can I prepare the toppings in advance?
- Yes, you can prep the toppings a day ahead. Just store them separately in airtight containers to keep them fresh.
- What other vegetables can I use for toppings?
- You can add bell peppers, radishes, or even olives for extra Mediterranean flavor. Feel free to customize based on what you have on hand.
- Can I freeze this dish?
- While you can freeze the cooked chicken, it’s best to store the toppings (like cucumber and tomatoes) separately, as they won’t freeze well. Reheat the chicken before serving.
Conclusion
This Skillet Greek Chicken is a simple yet vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep option, this recipe delivers big on flavor and freshness. The combination of marinated chicken, fresh toppings, and creamy tzatziki sauce makes for a satisfying and nutritious meal that your whole family will enjoy. Plus, it’s versatile, customizable, and can be served in many different ways. Give it a try, and I’m sure it’ll become a new favorite in your dinner rotation!
PrintSkillet Greek Chicken
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Skillet Greek Chicken is a flavorful, marinated dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. Juicy chicken, Mediterranean spices, and fresh toppings make this a delicious low-carb option. Pair it with warm naan, pita bread, or rice for a heartier meal. A simple and fresh dinner that’s full of flavor!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 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 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
For Toppings:
- 1 cup English cucumber, diced
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, diced
- 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3/4 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 24 hours.
Remove from the fridge 15 minutes before cooking to allow the chicken to come to room temperature. - Cook the Chicken:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and no longer pink in the center. - Assemble and Serve:
Serve the cooked chicken hot or cold. Plate the chicken and top with diced cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
- Leftovers: Store chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Grilling Option: For a smoky flavor, grill the marinated chicken on medium-high heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 125mg