Description
This Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta Vinaigrette is a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired main dish featuring tender, oven-baked chicken breasts topped with a tangy and crunchy feta vinaigrette. The crispy feta adds a delightful texture contrast, while the dressing’s balance of olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey enhances the dish with bright and savory notes. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, it pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, couscous, or a fresh green salad.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Crispy Feta Vinaigrette
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or mint (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Season and bake the chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then evenly season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Arrange the chicken in the prepared baking dish, and bake for 22–28 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from oven and let the chicken rest, covered, for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Prepare the crispy feta: While the chicken bakes, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the crumbled feta cheese and cook, stirring occasionally, until the feta turns golden brown and crispy, which should take about 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Make the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and black pepper. Stir in the slightly cooled crispy feta and the chopped fresh herbs, if using, to combine the vinaigrette.
- Serve: Spoon the crispy feta vinaigrette generously over the baked chicken breasts and serve immediately while warm, accompanied by your choice of sides.
Notes
- This dish pairs exceptionally well with roasted vegetables, couscous, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- For extra flavor, try using herbed feta or adding chili flakes into the vinaigrette.
- To ensure crispy feta, do not overcrowd the skillet and stir gently to allow even browning.
- Resting the chicken before slicing helps retain its juices for a tender result.
