If you’re looking for a dish that brings together simplicity, vibrant flavors, and a delightful Mediterranean touch, this Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners when you want something wholesome, colorful, and irresistibly tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. Juicy chicken breasts get a flavorful makeover with a seasoning mix and then bake under a blanket of fresh spinach and tangy feta cheese, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience you’ll want to share with everyone you know.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of ingredients that you might already have on hand, assembling this dish is straightforward and satisfying. Each element plays its part—from the tender chicken to the earthy spinach and salty feta, all enhanced by herbs and a splash of olive oil for flavor and moisture.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose even-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking and juicy results.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a warm, savory depth that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and layers of taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a classic Mediterranean herb note that pairs wonderfully with feta and spinach.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
- 1 cup spinach, chopped: Provides freshness, vibrant color, and a nutritional boost.
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Imparts creamy, tangy bursts of flavor that elevate the whole dish.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional): Adds a subtle tang and sweetness when drizzled on before serving.
How to Make Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is just right to finish cooking the chicken gently, allowing the flavors of spinach and feta to meld together without drying the meat.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry to ensure a good sear. Then sprinkle them evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. This simple seasoning blend amps up the flavor without overpowering the natural taste of the chicken.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Warm the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then lay the chicken in and sear for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. You want to get a nice golden-brown crust, locking in the juices and creating a foundation of flavor before baking.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Feta
Transfer the seared chicken breasts to an oven-safe dish. Generously top each piece with chopped spinach, then sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top. These toppings will soften and melt slightly as they bake, creating a luscious and colorful topping.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring it’s cooked through but still juicy. Meanwhile, the spinach wilts beautifully and the feta develops a rich creaminess.
Step 6: Optional Balsamic Drizzle and Serving
Once baked, consider drizzling a touch of balsamic vinegar on top for a burst of sweet acidity that cuts through the richness and ties all the flavors together perfectly before serving.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches like a sprinkle of fresh herbs—think parsley or basil—or a few lemon wedges can brighten the dish and add a fresh contrast. The tang of feta and balsamic pairs beautifully with bright citrus notes.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs fabulously with simple sides such as garlic roasted potatoes, quinoa salad, or a light couscous dish. Steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad are excellent partners too, keeping the meal balanced and nutritious.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more impressive presentation, serve the chicken over creamy mashed potatoes or pilaf, allowing the juices and feta-spinach topping to mingle with the starch. Alternatively, slice the chicken and layer it over mixed greens for a hearty salad or stuff it inside a warm pita for a tasty wrap option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the spinach and feta topping intact preserves moisture and flavor during storage.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze cooked chicken breasts wrapped tightly or in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Note that the texture of spinach may change slightly upon thawing, but it remains delicious.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through to avoid drying out the chicken. You can cover the dish with foil to keep moisture in. Microwaving is possible but might make the feta less creamy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Absolutely! Fresh garlic minced finely and sautéed with the chicken adds a lovely aromatic punch, but garlic powder is a handy shortcut that still delivers great flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute feta with a dairy-free cheese or omit it altogether. Adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can season and sear the chicken ahead, then top with spinach and feta right before baking. This speeds up serving time on busy days.
What if I don’t have dried oregano?
Italian seasoning or a blend of thyme and basil can work as a great substitute, adding complementary herbaceous notes.
How do I know when the chicken is safely cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that feels both cozy and fresh. With minimal ingredients and steps, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll return to time and again when you want dinner that’s quick, flavorful, and satisfying. Give it a try and prepare to have a new favorite weeknight dish that never fails to impress!
Print
Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach is a flavorful, quick, and healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned and seared to golden perfection before being topped with fresh spinach and tangy feta cheese, then baked to juicy finish. A drizzle of balsamic vinegar adds a bright, slightly sweet touch that complements the savory dish beautifully.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Optional
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken after searing.
- Season the chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. While it warms, season the chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper for balanced flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown, creating a flavorful crust.
- Assemble for baking: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to an oven-safe dish. Top each breast with chopped spinach and crumbled feta cheese to add freshness and creaminess.
- Bake the chicken: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) ensuring it is safely cooked through.
- Finish and serve: Remove from oven and, if desired, drizzle each portion with balsamic vinegar for a slight tang. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture, but baby spinach can be substituted.
- Feta cheese adds saltiness, so adjust additional salt accordingly.
- Balsamic vinegar is optional but enhances the dish with a touch of acidity and sweetness.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
