Home » Round-ups » Healthy Recipes » Greek-Southern Chicken Recipe: A Zesty & Hearty Weeknight Dish

Greek-Southern Chicken Recipe: A Zesty & Hearty Weeknight Dish

Greek-Southern Fusion Chicken Recipe: A Culinary Journey

Key Takeaways

Aspect

Detail

Cuisine Fusion

Greek flavors meet Southern cooking techniques.

Main Ingredient

Chicken thighs, offering a rich and juicy base.

Flavor Profile

Aromatic with a hint of sweetness and a touch of Southern comfort.

Preparation Time

Quick and easy, with a marinating time that fits into a busy schedule.

Cooking Level

Accessible to all, from beginners to seasoned chefs.

Serving Suggestion

Pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a crisp Greek salad.

a large platter with golden-brown, seared chicken thighs lavishly covered in a rich, golden sauce, garnished with lemon slices and fresh parsley

Introduction

What is a Greek-Southern Chicken Recipe?

The Greek-Southern Fusion Chicken Recipe is a culinary masterpiece that marries the aromatic flavors of Greek cuisine with the soulful warmth of Southern cooking. 

This dish features succulent chicken thighs marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs, then seared to perfection and baked to golden goodness.

Why is Greek-Southern Chicken Recipe so popular?

Its popularity stems from its ability to blend two distinct culinary traditions into one harmonious dish. 

The combination of zesty Greek seasonings and the comforting, rich approach of Southern cooking creates a meal that’s both sophisticated and hearty.

What are the benefits of making Greek-Southern Chicken Recipe at home?

Creating this dish at home allows you to experience the joy of cooking with fresh, flavorful ingredients while experimenting with the fusion of different culinary cultures. 

It’s a delightful way to bring a taste of the world into your kitchen, offering family and friends a healthy and delicious meal option.

Ingredients

Incorporate a variety of fresh and vibrant ingredients to bring this dish to life:

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

 

a Greek-Southern Fusion Chicken dish. The scene is set in a rustic kitchen with natural light streaming through a window

Preparation Time and Servings

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes (excluding marination time)
  • Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Servings: Serves 4

What Does Each Ingredient Add to the Recipe

Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in creating the dish’s unique flavor profile:

  • Olive oil & herbs: Infuse the chicken with Mediterranean aromas.
  • Lemon zest & juice: Add a bright, citrusy note.
  • Garlic, smoked paprika, & cumin: Provide depth and warmth.
  • Chicken broth & honey: Create a savory sauce with a hint of sweetness.
  • Flour: Offers a slight crust to the chicken for a satisfying texture.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps to crisp the skin.
  • Parsley: Gives a fresh finish and color.

Hints and Tips

  • Marinate Overnight: For deeper flavors, let the chicken marinate overnight.
  • Skillet Choice: Use an ovenproof skillet for seamless stove-to-oven cooking.
  • Sauce Thickness: Simmer it on the stove after baking if you prefer a thicker sauce.

Variations

Explore variations like adding feta cheese for a creamy twist or incorporating a splash of white wine into the sauce for added complexity.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delectable dish with roasted vegetables or a simple Greek salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition Values

This dish is a good source of protein and provides a balanced mix of fats and carbs, making it a nutritious option for a family dinner.

Difficulty Level

Easy to Medium: While the recipe involves several steps, they are straightforward and manageable, making this dish accessible to cooks of all levels.

a beautifully arranged table setting that includes a large platter with golden-brown, seared chicken thighs garnished with lemon slices and fresh parsley.

Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days, ensuring a delicious meal is ready for later.

History of the Greek-Southern Fusion

The fusion of Greek and Southern cuisines reflects a blending of cultures, showcasing how culinary traditions can merge to create new and exciting flavors.

Conclusion

The Greek-Southern Fusion Chicken Recipe is more than just a meal; it celebrates culinary diversity, bringing together the best of two worlds. It’s a testament to the power of food to unite and inspire.

FAQs

  1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
    Yes, but adjust cooking times as breasts cook faster.

  2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
    Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative.

  3. Can I make it ahead of time?
    Yes, marinate the chicken overnight for convenience.

  4. How do I know when the chicken is done?
    The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

  5. Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
    Yes, it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

  6. Is this dish spicy?
    It has a mild warmth from the paprika, but you can adjust to taste.

  7. What can I use if I don’t have an ovenproof skillet?
    Sear in a skillet, then transfer to a baking dish.

  8. Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
    Absolutely! Veggies like potatoes or carrots can be baked alongside.

  9. How can I make this dish more kid-friendly?
    Reduce the amount of garlic and paprika for a milder flavor.

  10. Is there a dairy-free alternative for butter?
    Use a plant-based butter or more olive oil.

Enjoy crafting this heartwarming dish that promises to transport you to a world where the flavors of Greece and the Southern charm meet. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, the Greek-Southern Fusion Chicken will surely delight. Don’t forget to have a look at our other top healthy dinner recipes

Greek-Southern Fusion Chicken Recipe: A Weeknight Dish with a Twist

Recipe by Chris Cooper
5.0 from 1 vote
Course: MainCuisine: GreekDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

35

minutes
Calories

400

kcal
Total time

50

minutes

Dive into a culinary adventure with our Greek-Southern Fusion Chicken Recipe, where the vibrant flavors of Greece meet the comforting soul of Southern cooking. This dish features succulent chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, oregano, and garlic, then seared to golden perfection. Finished in the oven with a hint of honey for a slight Southern sweetness and a rich, aromatic sauce, it's a weeknight wonder that promises to delight your taste buds. Perfect for those who love a twist on traditional recipes, it's a delicious testament to the beauty of culinary fusion.

Ingredients

  • 4 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

  • 2 tbsp 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)

  • 1 1 Zest of lemon

  • 2 tbsp 2 tbsp lemon juice

  • 3 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tsp 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp ground cumin

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

  • 1/2 cup 120 ml chicken broth

  • 1 tbsp 1 tbsp honey

  • 2 tbsp 2 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 1/2 cup 65 g all-purpose flour (for dredging)

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

  • Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, combine olive oil, oregano, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
  • Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator or, for the best flavor, overnight.
  • Dredge the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade). Dredge each piece lightly in flour, shaking off any excess. This Southern twist adds a slight crust to the chicken when seared.
  • Sear the Chicken: In a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the chicken, skin-side down, and sear until the skin is golden and crispy, about 5 minutes per side.
  • Braise: After searing, pour the reserved marinade and chicken broth over the chicken. Drizzle honey on top for a Southern touch of sweetness. Bring to a simmer.
  • Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the sauce has slightly thickened.
  • Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @yournewfoods on Instagram and hashtag it with #yournewfoods

Like this recipe?

Follow @yournewfoods on Pinterest

Share our recipes with your friends

Follow us on Facebook

Make it easy to find this Greek-Southern Chicken Recipe again by saving the below image to your Pinterest account.

a cozy, intimate dining setting for the Greek-Southern Fusion Chicken dish

Leave a Comment

[We may earn money or receive products from the companies mentioned in this post. This will not affect the price of the product. Medical Disclaimer: All the calculators on this website are for information only. You should talk with your medical professional when seeking advice about a medical condition, new diet, exercise program, or any information gained from this website and its tools/calculators.]