Baked Feta Chicken with Spinach – A Simple Mediterranean-Inspired Dinner

Introduction

Baked Feta Chicken with Spinach is one of those recipes that feels wholesome, comforting, and flavorful all at once. I started making this dish when I wanted a lighter dinner that still felt satisfying and rich in flavor. The combination of juicy baked chicken, creamy feta cheese, and tender spinach creates a meal that is both nourishing and elegant without being complicated. As the chicken bakes, the feta softens and becomes beautifully creamy, mingling with the juices and seasoning to form a natural sauce. The spinach wilts gently, adding freshness and balance to the dish. What I love most about this recipe is how effortless it is. Everything bakes together in one dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners. If you enjoy Mediterranean flavors and simple, oven-baked meals, this recipe is a reliable and delicious choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy, flavorful, and made with simple ingredients. It is a one-pan dish that requires minimal prep and cleanup while delivering bold, satisfying flavors. The feta adds creaminess without heavy sauces, and the spinach keeps the dish light and balanced.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken Breasts
Boneless chicken breasts bake evenly and stay tender when cooked with feta and olive oil.

Feta Cheese
Feta adds a creamy, tangy flavor that melts slightly during baking and forms a natural sauce.

Fresh Spinach
Spinach wilts beautifully in the oven, adding freshness, color, and nutrients.

Olive Oil
Olive oil helps keep the chicken moist and enhances the Mediterranean flavor profile.

Garlic
Garlic adds savory depth and aroma that complements the feta.

Lemon Juice
Lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the cheese.

Dried Oregano
Oregano adds classic Mediterranean herbal notes.

Salt
Salt enhances all the flavors and seasons the chicken properly.

Black Pepper
Black pepper adds gentle warmth and balance.

Red Pepper Flakes
Red pepper flakes add optional heat and depth.

Directions

Begin by preheating the oven and lightly greasing a baking dish. Place the chicken breasts in the dish and drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Season evenly with salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes.

Sprinkle the minced garlic over the chicken, then crumble or place chunks of feta cheese on top. Bake until the chicken is nearly cooked through and the feta has softened.

Remove the dish from the oven and scatter the spinach evenly around and over the chicken. Return to the oven and bake until the spinach is wilted and the chicken is fully cooked. Spoon some of the pan juices over the chicken before serving.

Equipment needed

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves four people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and baking time is approximately 30 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, spooning pan juices over the chicken to keep it moist.

Variations and Customizations

Baked Feta Chicken with Spinach is very adaptable. You can add cherry tomatoes or sliced olives for extra Mediterranean flavor. Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier result. For a creamier texture, stir a spoonful of Greek yogurt into the pan juices after baking. You can also add cooked rice or orzo directly to the dish to soak up the flavorful juices. Herbs like thyme or basil can be used in place of oregano for variety.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish is high in protein from the chicken and provides calcium and healthy fats from feta and olive oil. It is naturally low in carbohydrates and works well for balanced, whole-food-focused eating.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Even Chicken Thickness
Pound chicken lightly for even cooking.

Feta Placement
Keep feta on top so it softens without fully melting away.

Spinach Timing
Add spinach near the end to prevent overcooking.

Flavor Boost
Finish with extra lemon juice before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, thaw and drain it well before adding.

What type of feta works best?

Block feta packed in brine gives the best texture and flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble ahead and bake when ready.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it is low in carbohydrates.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes, thighs work very well and stay juicy.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

It should be fully opaque and cooked through.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, zucchini or tomatoes pair well.

Does feta melt completely?

No, it softens and becomes creamy.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, simply reduce garlic or pepper flakes if needed.

What should I serve with this?

Roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad pair nicely.

Conclusion

Baked Feta Chicken with Spinach is a simple, flavorful dish that brings Mediterranean-inspired ingredients together in an easy, one-pan meal. With juicy chicken, creamy feta, and tender spinach, it is a recipe that feels both comforting and fresh, perfect for weeknight dinners or relaxed family meals.

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