This feta tomato chicken skillet is a simple yet impressive one-pan meal that comes together quickly and tastes like something you would order at a cozy Mediterranean-inspired restaurant. Juicy chicken breasts are simmered in a garlicky tomato sauce, finished with tangy feta and fresh herbs for a comforting, wholesome dish that works perfectly for both busy weeknights and relaxed family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is made in one skillet, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your meal. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, yet they create a rich, layered flavor. The chicken stays tender and juicy, while the fresh tomatoes and feta create a bright, savory sauce. It is naturally clean-eating friendly, customizable, and pairs beautifully with grains or vegetables for a balanced meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds total), sliced in half lengthwise
2 teaspoons dried thyme
¾ teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
1 medium white onion, finely diced
4 fresh garlic cloves, pressed or finely minced
2 cups fresh cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken bone broth
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely minced, for garnish
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create four thinner pieces. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then season all sides evenly with the dried thyme, sea salt, and black pepper.
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the garlic and cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, just until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.
Pour in the white wine or chicken bone broth and allow it to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits.
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the tomato mixture. Sprinkle the crumbled feta evenly over the top.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: about 30 minutes
Variations
You can add sliced zucchini or spinach to the skillet before baking for extra vegetables. Swap dried thyme for dried oregano or Italian seasoning for a slightly different flavor profile. For a creamier sauce, stir in a few tablespoons of plain Greek-style yogurt just before serving. If you prefer a dairy-free option, omit the feta and finish with extra herbs and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and will be slightly juicier. Adjust cooking time as needed.
What can I serve with feta tomato chicken skillet?
This dish pairs well with brown rice, quinoa, couscous, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare it a few hours in advance and reheat gently before serving, though it tastes best freshly made.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Freezing is not recommended due to the fresh tomatoes and feta, which can change texture when thawed.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Fresh tomatoes are recommended for best flavor, but you can substitute with 1½ cups of drained canned diced tomatoes if needed.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the juices run clear.
Can I make this recipe without an oven-safe skillet?
Yes, transfer everything to a baking dish before placing it in the oven.
What type of feta works best?
A block of feta crumbled by hand provides the best texture and flavor compared to pre-crumbled varieties.
Can I add extra garlic?
Absolutely. If you love garlic, feel free to add one or two extra cloves.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it holds up well for short-term meal prep and reheats nicely for lunches or dinners.
Conclusion
This feta tomato chicken skillet is proof that simple ingredients can create an incredibly satisfying meal. With minimal prep, one pan, and bold, fresh flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in regular rotation. Whether served over grains or alongside vegetables, it’s a comforting, wholesome dish that delivers every time.
A flavorful one-skillet Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring seared chicken breasts simmered in a garlicky tomato sauce and finished with tangy feta and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds), sliced in half lengthwise
2 teaspoons dried thyme
¾ teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
1 medium white onion, finely diced
4 fresh garlic cloves, pressed or finely minced
2 cups fresh cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken bone broth
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely minced, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise and pat dry. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
Heat oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cherry tomatoes; cook 2 minutes more.
Pour in white wine or broth and simmer for 2–3 minutes, scraping up browned bits.
Return chicken to skillet and nestle into the tomato mixture. Sprinkle feta over top.
Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
Use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier result.
Add zucchini or spinach for more vegetables.
Swap thyme for oregano or Italian seasoning.
Use Greek yogurt for a creamier finish.
Omit feta for a dairy-free version and add lemon juice.