Welcome to your new favorite weeknight hero: the Chicken Skillet with Tomatoes and Feta! This vibrant and incredibly easy one-pan dish brings together succulent chicken, juicy burst tomatoes, aromatic garlic and onion, and tangy feta cheese for a meal that’s truly bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavor. Forget complicated recipes and endless dishes – this skillet dinner comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy evenings when you crave something wholesome, delicious, and satisfying. It’s a testament to how fresh, simple ingredients can create something extraordinary with minimal effort.
Why This Chicken Skillet Will Be Your New Go-To Meal
If you were captivated by the viral baked feta pasta that swept the internet a while back, but found yourself wishing for a version with deeper flavors and without the pasta, then your search ends here! This Chicken Skillet with Tomatoes and Feta offers all the creamy, tangy goodness you love, but elevates it with a symphony of robust seasonings and the satisfying texture of perfectly cooked chicken. Unlike some minimalist viral recipes, we’re not shy about flavor here. We embrace the fundamentals of great cooking with ample garlic, sweet sautéed onions, and fragrant dried oregano, creating a rich base that truly makes every bite sing.
This dish isn’t just delicious; it’s incredibly practical. Here’s why it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen:
- Lightning Fast: From prep to plate, you’re looking at about 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
- One-Pan Wonder: All the magic happens in a single skillet, drastically cutting down on cleanup time. More time enjoying your meal, less time scrubbing dishes!
- Bursting with Flavor: Juicy chunks of chicken, sweet and savory caramelized onions and garlic, bright burst cherry tomatoes, and creamy, salty feta cheese combine to create an unforgettable taste experience. The interplay of textures and flavors is simply exquisite.
- Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats, this dish is a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Versatile & Adaptable: Easily customize it to your family’s preferences. Serve it with your favorite side, or mix in extra veggies.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This skillet reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping healthy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Get ready to impress your taste buds and simplify your dinner routine with this irresistible chicken and feta skillet!
Essential Ingredients for Your Feta Chicken Skillet
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the freshness of its components. You likely have most of these pantry staples on hand already, making it even easier to whip up at a moment’s notice. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create this flavor-packed skillet:
- Chicken: We recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quick cooking and lean protein. However, boneless, skinless chicken thighs would also work wonderfully, offering a slightly richer flavor and juicier texture. Just ensure they are cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Butter and Olive Oil: A combination of these two fats creates the perfect browning for the chicken and a rich, flavorful base for sautéing the vegetables. Butter adds a creamy depth, while olive oil provides a high smoke point and a touch of Mediterranean essence.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is non-negotiable here! It provides an essential aromatic foundation that infuses the entire dish with irresistible flavor.
- Onion: A medium yellow onion, finely chopped, adds a sweet and savory base. As it caramelizes, it contributes a wonderful depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Seasoning: Keep it simple and classic with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Dried oregano is a Mediterranean herb that perfectly complements the tomatoes and feta, bringing an authentic taste to the dish. Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick if you like.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems are the star of the show after the chicken! When sautéed, they burst, releasing their sweet, tangy juices to create a natural, vibrant sauce. Grape tomatoes can be used as a substitute if cherry tomatoes are unavailable.
- Feta Cheese: The final touch that brings everything together. Creamy, tangy, and salty feta cheese melts into the warm sauce, adding a luxurious texture and a distinctive Mediterranean zing. A block of feta that you crumble yourself often has a superior texture and flavor compared to pre-crumbled varieties.
How to Prepare Your Quick Chicken Skillet with Tomatoes and Feta
Creating this delicious one-pan meal is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a flawless dinner that’s rich in flavor and light on effort. Each step is designed to build layers of taste, resulting in a cohesive and mouthwatering experience.
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by taking your chicken breasts and slicing each one into ½-inch thick strips. Then, cut these strips into uniform 3-4 bite-sized pieces. This ensures quick and even cooking. Season the chicken generously with salt and black pepper on all sides. Don’t underestimate the power of proper seasoning at this stage – it makes all the difference!
- Mise en Place (Prep Your Veggies): While the chicken is resting, chop your medium yellow onion into a fine dice and mince your garlic cloves. If using a block of feta, crumble it into small pieces. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Achieving a good sear at this stage adds incredible depth of flavor. Remove the browned chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate; it will be added back later.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter to the same skillet (no need to clean it – those browned bits are flavor!). Add the chopped onion and sauté, stirring frequently, until it softens and becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Infuse with Garlic and Oregano: Stir in the minced garlic and dried oregano. Continue to sauté for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to burn it. This step truly unlocks the aromatic heart of the dish.
- Burst the Tomatoes: Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir them into the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften and burst, releasing their sweet juices. You can gently press down on some of them with your spoon to encourage them to burst. As the juices release, use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pan – this process is called deglazing and it enriches the sauce immensely. Season with a pinch of salt to enhance their flavor.
- Combine and Finish: Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet with the burst tomatoes. Stir everything together gently, allowing the chicken to reheat and absorb the delicious tomato sauce.
- Stir in Feta: Finally, add the crumbled feta cheese to the skillet. Stir it in until it partially melts and becomes wonderfully creamy, coating the chicken and tomatoes. The heat from the skillet is usually enough to melt the feta without overcooking it.
- Serve Hot: Remove the skillet from the heat immediately. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil, if desired, for a touch of freshness and color. Serve your Chicken Skillet with Tomatoes and Feta warm, ready to be enjoyed!
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Your Skillet
This versatile Chicken Skillet with Tomatoes and Feta is incredibly adaptable and pairs beautifully with a wide array of side dishes. The rich, tangy sauce and tender chicken are the perfect complement to various textures and flavors, allowing you to customize your meal based on your preferences or dietary needs.
- Rice: A classic choice! Fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even a fragrant basmati or jasmine rice will soak up all the delicious tomato and feta sauce, creating a truly satisfying meal.
- Pasta or Noodles: For those who still crave that pasta connection, a simple bed of cooked noodles or short pasta like orzo or penne works wonderfully.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the bright flavors of the skillet, making for a hearty and satisfying dinner.
- Crusty Bread: Don’t let a single drop of that amazing sauce go to waste! Serve with warm, crusty bread like a baguette or ciabatta for dipping.
- Lettuce Cups: For a lighter, low-carb option, serve the chicken and feta mixture in crisp lettuce cups. It’s a fresh and healthy way to enjoy the flavors.
- Quinoa or Couscous: For a nutrient-rich alternative, fluffy quinoa or quick-cooking couscous are excellent choices that absorb the sauce wonderfully.
- Roasted Vegetables: A simple side of roasted broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini would complement the skillet perfectly, adding more greens to your meal.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! This Chicken Skillet with Tomatoes and Feta is an excellent candidate for meal prep, making your weeknights even smoother. You can cook the entire dish ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment. Simply follow these guidelines:
Allow the cooked skillet to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers with lids. Properly sealed, it will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce appears too thick during reheating. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot. This makes it perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the busy workweek!
Tips for Success & Recipe Variations
While this recipe is fantastic as is, here are some tips to ensure perfection and ideas to get creative in the kitchen:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When browning the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature, steaming the chicken instead of browning it, which prevents that delicious golden crust and flavor development.
- Fresh Herbs Finish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, basil, or dill at the end can brighten the flavors significantly.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and oregano.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other quick-cooking vegetables. Sliced bell peppers, spinach (stir in at the very end until wilted), or even zucchini would be delicious additions.
- Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest grated over the finished dish can add a wonderful bright, citrusy note that complements the feta and tomatoes beautifully.
- Creamier Sauce: For an even richer, creamier sauce, stir in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream along with the feta cheese.
Common Questions About Chicken Skillet with Tomatoes and Feta
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about this quick and delicious chicken skillet:
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, you can. Ensure the chicken is fully thawed before cutting and seasoning. Pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure it browns properly in the skillet.
Q: What if I don’t have cherry tomatoes?
A: Grape tomatoes are an excellent substitute and behave very similarly. If you only have larger tomatoes (like Roma or regular tomatoes), chop them into bite-sized pieces. They might release more liquid, so you might need to simmer the sauce a bit longer to reduce it.
Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: As written, the recipe is not spicy. It relies on the savory flavors of garlic, onion, and oregano. If you prefer a kick, add red pepper flakes to taste.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: To make it dairy-free, you would need to omit the feta cheese and replace the butter with more olive oil. You could try a plant-based feta alternative, but the flavor profile will change.
Q: How can I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave.
More Easy Dinner Recipes You’ll Love
- Creamy Tomato Chicken
- Creamy Mushroom Garlic Chicken
- Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe
- Garlic Butter Chicken
If you try this delightful Chicken Skillet with Tomatoes and Feta and love it as much as we do, please let us know in the comments below! Your feedback and ratings help us continue to share delicious recipes.
Chicken Skillet with Tomatoes and Feta
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 medium chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ medium yellow onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 10 oz cherry tomatoes
- 7 oz feta cheese
Instructions
- Start by slicing each chicken breast into ½ inch thick strips. Cut each strip into 3 to 4 bite-size pieces. Season chicken with salt and pepper.2 medium chicken breasts, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Chop onion and mince garlic.½ medium yellow onion, 2 garlic cloves
- Crumble feta, if yours was in a block.7 oz feta cheese
- Heat up 1 tablespoon of oil with 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet.2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Add chicken and cook until browned. Remove onto a plate.
- Add remaining oil and butter to skillet.
- Add onion and cook, stirring often, until translucent.
- Add garlic and oregano. Stir in and saute for 2 to 3 minutes, until fragrant.½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Add tomatoes to skillet and stir in. Saute until the tomatoes burst. You may need to press down gently on each to help them burst. The tomatoes will release juice. Use it to deglaze the pan: scrape the cooked on bits of flavor with a wooden spoon. This way all the flavors will be in the sauce.10 oz cherry tomatoes
- Add chicken back to skillet and reheat.
- Add feta cheese and stir everything together.
- Remove the skillet from heat.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve!
Notes
- This dish can be made up to 4 days in advance. Ensure it’s cooled completely before placing it in airtight containers. Store in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
- Please note that the nutrition values provided are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and products used. We recommend using a calorie counter you are familiar with for precise nutritional information.