Zesty Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette Recipe

Crispy feta adds unexpected magic to this baked chicken dish that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Layers of Mediterranean flavors burst through each tender bite.

Mediterranean ingredients create a symphony of textures and tastes.

Briny cheese melts into golden-brown crispness atop succulent meat.

Salt and herbs weave delightful complexity into every forkful.

Simple ingredients combine to craft something extraordinary.

FAQs

• What makes the feta crispy?

Coating the feta block in cornstarch before pan-frying creates a golden, crunchy exterior. The cornstarch helps develop a crisp texture when heated in olive oil, transforming the soft cheese into a delightful, crunchy topping.

• Can I substitute the spices if I don't have them?

Absolutely! While paprika, cumin, and ginger provide unique flavors, you can use similar spices like smoked paprika, ground coriander, or turmeric. The key is maintaining a balance of warm, aromatic spices that complement the chicken.

• How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C).

Why Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta Is Delicious

• Spice Up Your Dinner: Dive into a flavor explosion with this chicken recipe that combines warm spices like paprika, cumin, and ginger for a mouthwatering meal that'll wake up your taste buds.
• Quick Kitchen Magic: Transform simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous cooking adventures.
• Texture Wonderland: Experience a delightful contrast between crispy feta, tender chicken, and roasted vegetables that'll make every bite an exciting culinary journey.
• Customize Your Feast: Easily adapt the recipe by serving with rice, switching up herbs, or adjusting spice levels to match your personal taste preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients for Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta and Vinaigrette

• Chicken Tenders: Tender cuts of chicken that provide the primary protein for the dish.

• Bell Peppers, Fresno Pepper: Colorful peppers that add sweetness and mild heat to the dish.
• Shallots, Garlic: Aromatic ingredients that enhance the overall flavor profile.

• Paprika, Cumin, Ginger: Warm spices that add depth and complexity to the chicken.
• Salt, Pepper, Chili Flakes: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate the taste.

• Feta Block: Tangy cheese that is coated in cornstarch and crisped to add a crunchy texture.

• Olive Oil, Lemon Juice, Champagne Vinegar: Bright and acidic liquids that create a refreshing dressing.
• Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the vinaigrette.

• Fresh Herbs: Provides a fresh and aromatic finishing touch to the dish.

How to Make Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta and Vinaigrette

Step 1: Crank Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a blazing 425°F.

This high heat will transform your chicken into a golden masterpiece.

Step 2: Spice and Toss the Chicken

• Chicken tenders
• Olive oil
• Paprika
• Cumin
• Ginger
• Salt
• Pepper
• Chili flakes

• Sliced bell peppers
• Fresno pepper
• Shallots
• Garlic

Spread everything out and let the oven work its magic for 25 minutes until the chicken is perfectly cooked and veggies are tender.

Step 3: Craft the Crispy Feta

Dust the feta block with cornstarch for a crunchy exterior.

Heat a skillet with olive oil and pan-fry the feta until it turns golden and crisp.

This should take 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 4: Whip Up the Vinaigrette

• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Champagne vinegar
• Honey
• Salt
• Pepper

Whisk until the ingredients dance together smoothly.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Layer the baked chicken and peppers on a plate.

Crumble the crispy feta on top.

Drizzle with the zesty vinaigrette.

Sprinkle fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.

For a more substantial meal, serve alongside fluffy rice.

Tips for Crispy Chicken with Feta and Vinaigrette

• Coat feta completely in cornstarch for that perfect golden exterior and crunchy texture.
• Choose fresh, vibrant bell peppers and Fresno peppers for maximum flavor and color contrast.
• Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving to boost freshness and aroma.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe, juicy results.
• Adjust honey and vinegar ratios to balance tanginess and sweetness according to personal preference.

Flavor Twists for Baked Chicken with Feta

• Gluten-Free Swap: Replace cornstarch with arrowroot powder or rice flour to coat the feta for a celiac-friendly version.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute chicken tenders with firm tofu or tempeh, maintaining the same spice blend and cooking method.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the rice and serve over cauliflower rice or a bed of mixed greens for a lighter meal.
• Spice Level Adjustment: Reduce or eliminate chili flakes for a milder version, or add extra for those who love heat.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Chicken and Feta

• Herbal Freshness Boost: Sprinkle fresh dill, parsley, or basil leaves on top to add bright, aromatic flavors that complement the crispy feta and spiced chicken.
• Mediterranean Plate Presentation: Arrange the chicken and peppers on a large platter with a bed of warm pita bread or couscous to soak up the delicious vinaigrette and capture all the tasty juices.
• Zesty Side Companion: Pair with a quick cucumber and tomato salad dressed with a light lemon-olive oil mixture to balance the rich, crispy feta and provide a cool, refreshing contrast to the warm spiced chicken.

How to Store Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta

• Store leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Stays good for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the crispy feta and vinaigrette.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken and vegetables on a baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Place chicken and vegetables on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed completely. Add fresh herbs after reheating to maintain flavor and texture.

Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette Recipe

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4.9 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

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Description

Sizzling Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette brings Mediterranean flavors to your dinner table with zesty Greek-inspired charm. Crisp chicken roasted alongside tangy feta creates a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 0.5 pound (226 grams) boneless skinless chicken tenders

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 2 bell peppers (sliced (red, orange, or yellow))
• 0.5–1 Fresno pepper (seeded and sliced)
• 1 shallot (sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic (chopped)

Seasonings and Cheese:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin seed
• 0.5 teaspoon ground ginger
• Kosher salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Chili flakes (to taste)
• 4 ounces (113 grams) feta cheese block (patted dry)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 0.33 cup (79 milliliters) mixed fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley, dill)

Vinaigrette:

• 0.167 cup (40 milliliters) extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 0.5 tablespoon champagne vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey

Optional:

• Rice for serving

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Instructions

1. Ignite the oven to a scorching 425°F (220°C), preparing for a flavor-packed culinary adventure.
2. Arrange chicken tenders on a baking sheet, massaging them with olive oil and a symphony of spices: paprika, cumin, ginger, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Scatter bell peppers, Fresno pepper, shallots, and garlic around the chicken, ensuring each morsel is coated with the aromatic seasoning. Roast for 25 minutes until the chicken achieves perfect doneness and vegetables turn tender and caramelized.
3. During the roasting process, transform the feta into a crispy delight by dusting it thoroughly with cornstarch. In a skillet warmed to medium heat, sear the feta in a whisper of olive oil, creating a golden exterior that’s crunchy and irresistible. Cook 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to a waiting plate.
4. Craft a vibrant vinaigrette by whisking olive oil, lemon juice, champagne vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper into a harmonious blend of tangy and sweet.
5. Plate the roasted chicken and peppers, crown with fresh herbs, crumble the crispy feta on top, and cascade the vinaigrette over the dish. For a more substantial meal, accompany with fluffy rice.

Notes

• Customize spice levels by adjusting chili flakes for heat-sensitive palates or adding extra for spice lovers.
• Ensure chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee safe consumption and prevent foodborne illness.
• Pat chicken tenders dry before seasoning to help spices adhere better and create a more flavorful crust.
• Substitute cornstarch with arrowroot or potato starch for gluten-free crispy feta preparation.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 525 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 710 mg
• Fat: 36 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 26 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 11 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 39 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg