Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy dinner that comes together in no time, you’ve found it! My Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette is one of those recipes I turn to again and again. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The tender chicken pairs beautifully with vibrant roasted peppers, and the crispy feta adds a delightful twist that makes this dish stand out.

This recipe is not just quick; it’s also versatile enough for family gatherings or a cozy night in. You can easily serve it over rice or pasta, making it a complete meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in about 35 minutes.
• Family-Friendly: The flavors are mild yet delicious, making it appealing to both adults and kids alike.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can marinate the chicken earlier in the day for an even more flavorful dish!
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever peppers or herbs you have on hand for a personalized touch.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with fresh veggies and lean protein, this meal is as nutritious as it is tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh ingredients is part of the fun! The items for this recipe are simple and wholesome, ensuring that you create a dish bursting with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• ½ pound boneless skinless chicken tenders
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin seed
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Chili flakes (to taste)

For the Peppers

• 2 bell peppers (sliced (red, orange, or yellow))
• ½-1 Fresno pepper (seeded and sliced)
• 1 shallot (sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic (chopped)

For the Crispy Feta

• 4 ounces feta cheese block (patted dry)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

For the Vinaigrette

• ⅙ cup about 2.5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ tablespoon sparkling grape juice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey

Optional

• Rice for serving

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily swap in different ingredients based on your preferences or what you have at home.

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless skinless turkey breasts or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the veggies: Add zucchini, eggplant, or any seasonal vegetables you love.
• Experiment with cheeses: If feta isn’t your favorite, goat cheese or ricotta salata work well too!
• Herb substitutions: Use basil or mint instead of cilantro and parsley for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and develops a lovely golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Seasoning

In a bowl, mix together olive oil, paprika, cumin seed, ground ginger, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes. This spice blend adds depth to your chicken and helps create a delicious crust when baked.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Toss the chicken tenders in the seasoning mixture until they’re fully coated. This step is crucial because it infuses flavor into every bite of chicken.

Step 4: Arrange Vegetables on Baking Sheet

On a large baking sheet, spread out your sliced bell peppers, Fresno pepper, shallots, and garlic. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Roasting these veggies brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 5: Add Chicken to Baking Sheet

Place your seasoned chicken tenders on top of the vegetables. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together as they cook.

Step 6: Prepare Crispy Feta Topping

Cut the feta into small cubes and toss them in cornstarch until coated. This will help create that crispy texture we’re after during baking!

Step 7: Bake Together

Sprinkle the coated feta over everything on your baking sheet. Bake for about 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 8: Make the Vinaigrette

While everything bakes away happily in your oven, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, sparkling grape juice vinegar, and honey in a small bowl. This light vinaigrette will add brightness to your dish once served.

Step 9: Serve

Once baked to perfection, serve your Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette over rice or pasta if desired. Drizzle that lovely vinaigrette over everything before digging in!

Enjoy this delightful meal that’s not only easy to make but also full of flavor!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette

Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve to make your dish even better!

• Choose the right chicken: Using boneless skinless chicken tenders allows for quicker cooking and keeps the meat tender. If you prefer larger pieces, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Let the feta drain well: Patting the feta cheese dry ensures it crisps up nicely in the oven. Any excess moisture can lead to steaming instead of that delicious crispy texture we all love.
• Season generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning! The spices not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to a lovely crust on the chicken. Feel free to adjust spices based on your taste preferences.
• Roast veggies for extra flavor: Roasting the bell peppers and shallots helps caramelize their natural sugars, adding depth to the dish. Be sure to toss them in olive oil and seasoning before baking.
• Experiment with herbs: Mixing fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, and dill adds freshness and brightness to this dish. Don’t hesitate to swap or add different herbs that suit your palate!

How to Serve Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette

Presenting your Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette beautifully can elevate your meal from good to spectacular. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or parsley right before serving adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick that brightens up each bite.
• Chili flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a light dusting of chili flakes will tantalize your taste buds!

Side Dishes

• Fluffy Rice: A simple bed of fluffy rice is perfect for soaking up the vinaigrette and juices from the chicken, making every bite satisfying.
• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread complements the dish beautifully, adding a crunchy texture that pairs well with the tender chicken and vegetables.
• Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a hearty side that’s both filling and delicious while balancing out the meal.
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add a vibrant color and crispness, creating a well-rounded plate that’s visually appealing.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette is sure to impress at any dinner table! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette is a fantastic option for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy healthy, delicious meals throughout the week. Let’s dive into how to store and reheat this dish to keep it fresh and tasty!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the vinaigrette separate until ready to serve for the best flavor.

Freezing

• Wrap individual portions of the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, label with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place chicken on a baking sheet. Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, reheat in a microwave-safe dish at medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to prevent overcooking.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common ones about our Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette!

Can I use different types of cheese instead of feta?

Absolutely! While feta provides a unique flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella if desired.

What can I serve with Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even a fresh green salad. Feel free to get creative based on your preferences!

How can I make Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette even healthier?

Consider using skinless chicken breast instead of tenders and reducing the amount of oil used. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or asparagus!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

While this recipe is centered around chicken, you can easily substitute the meat with hearty vegetables like eggplant or portobello mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavor and warmth that brings everyone together. Whether you’re prepping for busy weekdays or serving family and friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!