If you love dishes that effortlessly combine bold Mediterranean flavors with a satisfying texture, this Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Tender chicken thighs roasted to perfection beneath a golden, crispy feta crust, finished off with a vibrant, tangy vinaigrette bursting with cherry tomatoes, fresh parsley, and zesty red onion. It’s one of those recipes that hits every note — savory, fresh, tangy, and just a hint of richness — coming together in an easy bake that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but really didn’t. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple you’re excited to share with family and friends again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for uncomplicated, pantry-friendly ingredients that work harmoniously to create an unforgettable meal. Each one is carefully chosen to elevate the natural juiciness of the chicken and brighten up the whole dish with that classic Mediterranean flair.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These provide juicy, flavorful meat that stays tender during baking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the chicken skin crisp up beautifully when roasted.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential seasoning that enhances every other flavor.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle warmth and depth to the chicken seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings that unmistakable herbaceous Mediterranean touch.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses gentle garlicky aroma without overpowering the dish.
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese: The star ingredient that crisps up perfectly on the chicken for a salty, tangy crust.
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved): Juicy bursts of color and sweetness in the vinaigrette.
- ¼ red onion (thinly sliced): Adds sharpness and slight crunch to the topping.
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Provides vibrant acidity to balance the cheese.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Gives the vinaigrette a mild kick and creamy texture.
- â…“ cup olive oil (for vinaigrette): Smooths and enriches the dressing for perfect coating.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped): Bright herbaceous note to tie everything together.
- Optional lemon wedges for serving: A fresh squeeze adds extra zing at the table.
How to Make Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Chicken
Start by heating your oven to a lively 400°F (200°C). Lay out your chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment for easy cleanup. Drizzle them with olive oil and season liberally with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and garlic powder. This foundational layer of flavors sets the stage for a deeply satisfying savory bite.
Step 2: Roast the Chicken
Slide the chicken into the oven and let it roast for 20 minutes. At this point, the meat will be starting to cook through and the edges will begin to turn golden. This initial roast locks in the juices and prepares the surface for that irresistible layer of feta cheese.
Step 3: Add the Crispy Feta
Remove the pan carefully from the oven and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over each piece of chicken. Return the pan to bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on the feta as it transforms into a crispy, bubbly golden crust — it’s pure magic with the tender chicken beneath.
Step 4: Whisk Up the Vinaigrette
While the chicken finishes roasting, grab a small bowl and whisk together red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil until emulsified into a smooth dressing. Then, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and fresh parsley. Letting this sit for 5 to 10 minutes gives the flavors time to mingle beautifully, adding brightness and texture when spooned over the chicken.
Step 5: Dress and Serve
Once your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the feta is golden and crisp, pull it out of the oven. Spoon the vibrant vinaigrette over the top generously, and garnish with optional lemon wedges for a bright citrus finish. This final assembly brings the whole dish to life — warm, tangy, crunchy, and utterly delicious.
How to Serve Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette Recipe
Garnishes
The simplest garnish can elevate this dish — consider a scattering of extra chopped parsley or fresh cracked black pepper right before serving. A wedge of lemon on the side encourages diners to add a fresh squeeze of juice, unlocking an extra layer of brightness that pairs perfectly with the salty feta.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with rustic roasted potatoes, their crispy edges mirroring the feta’s crunch. For a lighter side, a fluffy couscous salad with cucumber and mint complements the Mediterranean vibes, or simply serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the chicken on a large platter with the vinaigrette drizzled over and the sides arranged around it family-style. You can even pile the chicken atop a bed of fluffy rice or creamy polenta to soak up the juices. No matter how you plate it, this baked chicken with crispy feta & vinaigrette recipe promises to wow your guests visually and on the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken and vinaigrette mixture in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The vinaigrette will soften the feta crust over time, so it’s best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days for optimal texture and freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken thighs wrapped tightly in foil or placed in freezer-safe bags. Freeze separately from the vinaigrette to maintain flavor and texture. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in a 350°F oven on a baking sheet to help crisp back up the feta coating—avoid the microwave if possible, as it will soften the crispiness. Add fresh vinaigrette or prepare a new batch to refresh the flavors before serving.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind chicken breasts tend to cook faster and can dry out more easily, so reduce baking time accordingly and check for doneness to keep them juicy.
Is feta cheese always crispy when baked?
When baked on top of chicken like in this recipe, feta crisps beautifully as it slowly browns and melts, creating a delightful crunchy texture that contrasts with the tender meat.
Can I prepare the vinaigrette ahead of time?
Yes, the vinaigrette can be made up to a day in advance. Just store it covered in the fridge and stir before serving. The flavors actually deepen when allowed to rest!
What if I don’t have dried oregano?
Fresh oregano can work in a pinch, or you can substitute with dried thyme or Italian seasoning for a similarly herbaceous note.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The simple ingredients make it perfect for gluten-free diets without needing any tweaks.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette Recipe enough if you want a fuss-free weeknight dinner that tastes like a sunny Mediterranean escape. With crispy, cheesy comfort and fresh, tangy brightness all in one dish, you’re going to fall in love with this recipe as much as I have. Give it a try and get ready to impress everyone at your table!
Print
Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Mediterranean-inspired Baked Chicken with Crispy Feta & Vinaigrette combines tender roasted chicken thighs with a golden, crispy feta topping and a fresh, tangy vinaigrette made from cherry tomatoes, red onion, and herbs. It’s a flavorful, gluten-free main course perfect for an easy dinner that feels both comforting and vibrant.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Feta Topping
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
Vinaigrette
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- â…“ cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Optional
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken thighs on a lined baking sheet. Drizzle them evenly with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and garlic powder.
- Initial Roasting: Roast the chicken thighs in the oven for 20 minutes, allowing them to cook through partially and develop flavor.
- Add Feta and Continue Baking: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Evenly sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over each chicken thigh. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the feta becomes golden and crispy on top.
- Make Vinaigrette: While the chicken bakes, whisk together red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil in a small bowl until emulsified. Stir in the cherry tomatoes, red onion, and chopped parsley. Let the vinaigrette sit for 5–10 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
- Serve: Once the chicken is cooked and feta topping is crispy, spoon the vinaigrette mixture over each serving. Serve immediately, optionally with lemon wedges on the side for an added zesty brightness.
Notes
- Pairs excellently with roasted potatoes or a simple couscous salad for a complete meal.
- You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but be sure to adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.
