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
Scale
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.
