Greek chicken breast with dill and lemon

Greek Chicken Breast with Dill and Lemon - A Flavorful Culinary Experience

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 70 minutes
Total time: 85 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Looking for a recipe that combines Mediterranean flavors with simplicity in preparation? Greek chicken breast with dill and lemon is the perfect choice! This recipe not only offers a delicious taste but also brings a touch of sunshine to your plate. Let's embark on this culinary journey together!

A Brief History of the Recipe

Greek cuisine is renowned for its fresh flavors and quality ingredients. The combination of chicken with lemon and dill is not just a coincidence but reflects the Mediterranean tradition of using simple ingredients to create delicious dishes. This dish is often prepared in Greek households, making it a popular choice for family meals or gatherings.

Necessary Ingredients

- 1/2 chicken breast (approximately 300g)
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 cup of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of tomato paste
- 1 small cup of red wine (optional)
- 3 tablespoons of lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- Fresh dill, chopped (approximately 2-3 tablespoons)
- 2 medium potatoes (or another side of your choice)

Ingredient Tips

- Chicken breast: If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Cutting the meat into smaller pieces can help with even marination.
- Lemon: Use fresh lemons for a more intense flavor. Lemon juice not only adds acidity but also helps tenderize the meat.
- Wine: Red wine adds depth to the dish, but if you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can omit it. A splash of water or chicken broth can be a good substitute.
- Dill: This is an essential ingredient in this recipe, but you can also experiment with other herbs like basil or oregano.

Preparation Techniques

1. Preparing the Chicken: Wash the chicken breast well and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess water. This step is crucial for effective marination.
2. Marinating: In a bowl, combine the tomato paste, tomato puree, wine, lemon juice, salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and crushed garlic. Mix well until you achieve a uniform paste. Place the chicken breast in the bowl and ensure it is well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to absorb the delicious flavors.
3. Preparing the Side: Peel and wash the potatoes, then cut them in half. If desired, you can slice or cube them for quicker baking.
4. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with butter and add the marinated chicken breast and potatoes. Pour the remaining marinade over the ingredients in the dish. Sprinkle the chopped dill on top for added flavor.
5. Covering and Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil, making sure to create a few holes to allow steam to escape. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes. Check occasionally; if the liquid reduces too much, add a little hot water or wine.
6. Finishing: After 60 minutes, remove the aluminum foil and let the chicken brown for an additional 10 minutes to achieve a nice crust.

Serving

Remove the dish from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes. Serve the chicken breast warm, alongside crispy potatoes, and sprinkle a little fresh dill on top. You can accompany this meal with a fresh Greek salad or a cup of yogurt with mint for a refreshing contrast.

Tips and Variations

If you want to add extra flavor, you can add some green or black olives to the dish before baking. Additionally, for a spicy kick, add chili peppers to the marinade. Replacing butter with olive oil can provide an even more authentic flavor.

Nutritional Values

This dish is not only tasty but also nutritious, being an excellent source of protein (approximately 45g per serving), vitamins, and minerals from potatoes and fresh herbs. The calories are estimated at around 350-400 kcal per serving, depending on the exact quantities of ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another type of meat? Yes, you can use turkey or fish, but the baking time will need to be adjusted.
- How can I store leftovers? Cooked chicken breast stores well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, sealed in an airtight container.
- What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry white wine or a pale ale pairs perfectly with the flavors of this dish.

I hope you will try this delicious recipe for Greek chicken breast with dill and lemon! It is a perfect choice for a family dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy your meal!