Ingredients
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients, which I always approach with a bit of care. Growing up, my grandmother taught me that fresh, quality produce and good cheese can transform a simple recipe into something memorable. For this casserole, I recommend using ripe tomatoes and authentic Greek feta if you can find it. If olives aren’t your favorite, you can swap them for capers or leave them out entirely—this recipe is forgiving and welcomes your personal touch.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts if preferred)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Juice of half a lemon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish with olive oil.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden but not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil, then sauté the sliced red onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and soft.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and olives to the skillet, cooking for another 3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
- Transfer the tomato mixture to the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Nestle the seared chicken thighs on top.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C) and the feta is slightly browned.
- Remove from oven, drizzle with fresh lemon juice, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
