Santorini Lemon Herb Chicken Melody

A vibrant Greek-inspired chicken dish marinated with fresh lemon and oregano, served with creamy feta. Perfect for a single, satisfying meal.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 30 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Begin by placing the chicken breast between two pieces of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures even cooking and helps create juicy, tender chicken.
2. 2.
   In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the juice and zest of one lemon, and the dried oregano. This marinade will infuse the chicken with bright, citrusy flavors. Coat the chicken breast in the marinade thoroughly and let it rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate while the chicken approaches cooking temperature, ensuring even cooking.
3. 3.
   Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You should see a nice golden-brown crust forming, which indicates the chicken is caramelizing properly due to the lemon and oil. Reduce the heat slightly if the chicken browns too quickly.
4. 4.
   Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken remains moist and flavorful. During the resting time, any leftover marinade can be quickly simmered in the skillet for a minute to create a simple sauce.
5. 5.
   Slice the chicken and serve it topped with crumbled feta cheese for a creamy, tangy finish. The warm chicken will slightly melt the feta, creating a delicious contrast with the lemony, herby notes. Enjoy this dish on its own or with a side of fresh greens for added texture and flavor.