🇬🇷🌿🐔 Greek Garlic Chicken with Roasted Potatoes & Creamy Mushroom Pesto: A Mediterranean Masterpiece
If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors, look no further than this Greek Garlic Chicken with Roasted Potatoes & Creamy Mushroom Pesto. This dish combines tender, herb-marinated chicken, crispy roasted garlic-rosemary potatoes, and a rich, earthy mushroom-basil pesto that ties it all together with a gourmet flair. It’s a wholesome, satisfying meal that feels both comforting and sophisticated—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe that brings the sunny vibes of Greece straight to your kitchen! 🥔🧄🍄✨
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a celebration of bold Mediterranean flavors with a unique twist. The chicken is marinated in a zesty blend of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs, giving it that classic Greek taste. The roasted potatoes are perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, infused with garlic and rosemary for an irresistible aroma. And the star of the show? A creamy mushroom-garlic basil pesto that adds an earthy depth and velvety texture to every bite. Not only is this meal delicious, but it’s also packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a balanced option for those who want to eat well without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
This recipe is broken down into three components: the marinated chicken, the roasted potatoes, and the creamy pesto. Here’s what you’ll need for each part:
🐔 Greek Herb-Marinated Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced – Slicing the chicken ensures even cooking and more surface area for the marinade to soak in.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – Use extra virgin for the best flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄 – Fresh garlic is key for that bold, aromatic kick.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice 🍋 – Adds brightness and balances the richness of the dish.
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped 🌿 – If you don’t have fresh, use 1 tsp dried oregano.
- ½ tsp dried thyme – A classic Mediterranean herb that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- Salt & freshly cracked black pepper to taste – Season generously for maximum flavor.
🥔 Roasted Garlic Rosemary Potatoes
- 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes – Yukon Golds are ideal for roasting; they’re creamy yet hold their shape well.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – Helps the potatoes crisp up in the oven.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Because you can never have too much garlic!
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped 🌿 – Fresh rosemary adds an earthy, pine-like flavor; use ½ tsp dried if needed.
- Salt & freshly cracked black pepper to taste – Enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes.
🍄 Creamy Mushroom-Garlic Basil Pesto
- 4 oz cremini mushrooms, finely chopped – Cremini (also called brown or baby bella) mushrooms have a deeper flavor than white mushrooms.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the mushrooms to golden perfection.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – More garlic for that savory depth.
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves 🌿 – Basil brings a fresh, herbaceous note to the pesto.
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese 🧀 – Adds a nutty, umami-rich flavor; use a vegan alternative if needed.
- 2 tbsp heavy cream – For that luscious, creamy texture; swap with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice 🍋 – Brightens the pesto and balances the richness.
- Salt & freshly cracked black pepper to taste – Adjust seasoning to your liking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe comes together in a few simple steps, with each component bringing its own magic to the plate. Let’s get cooking!
- Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped oregano, dried thyme, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Toss everything together to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours in the fridge for even more flavor. The lemon juice tenderizes the chicken while the herbs and garlic infuse it with Mediterranean goodness. - Prepare the Roasted Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to get it nice and hot for roasting. In a large bowl, toss the potato cubes with olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat—this ensures they roast evenly and don’t stick. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through, until they’re golden brown, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside. The smell of garlic and rosemary wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible! - Cook the Chicken
While the potatoes are roasting, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. If you’re using a skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill or sauté the marinated chicken slices for 3–4 minutes per side, or until they’re cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C) and have a nice golden-brown sear. Set the chicken aside to rest for a few minutes—this helps the juices redistribute, keeping it tender and juicy. - Prepare the Creamy Mushroom-Garlic Basil Pesto
In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped cremini mushrooms and minced garlic, and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are softened and have released their moisture. They should be golden and fragrant. Transfer the mushroom mixture to a food processor or blender, then add the fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Taste and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to your liking. If the pesto is too thick, add a splash more cream or a little water to reach your desired consistency. - Assemble & Serve
Now comes the fun part—putting it all together! On a plate or in a shallow bowl, arrange a portion of the roasted garlic rosemary potatoes as the base. Top with a few slices of the Greek herb-marinated chicken, then drizzle generously with the creamy mushroom-garlic basil pesto. The pesto will melt slightly over the warm chicken and potatoes, creating a mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures. Garnish with a sprig of fresh basil or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan if desired, and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Greek Garlic Chicken
- Marinate Longer for More Flavor: If you have time, let the chicken marinate in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. This deepens the flavors and makes the chicken even more tender.
- Crispier Potatoes: For extra crispy potatoes, soak the cubed potatoes in cold water for 15 minutes before roasting to remove excess starch, then pat them dry thoroughly.
- Customize the Pesto: If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can swap them for roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist on the pesto.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative to make this dish completely dairy-free.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain their texture, and warm the pesto separately on the stovetop.
Serving Suggestions
This Greek Garlic Chicken is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate the experience with a few simple additions. Serve it with a side of crisp Greek salad—think cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta with a lemon-oregano dressing—for a refreshing contrast. A glass of chilled white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or Assyrtiko, pairs beautifully with the Mediterranean flavors. For a cozier vibe, enjoy it with a warm piece of crusty bread to soak up the creamy pesto.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s nutritious too! The chicken provides lean protein to keep you full and satisfied, while the potatoes offer complex carbs for sustained energy. Garlic and rosemary bring anti-inflammatory properties, and the mushrooms in the pesto are a great source of B vitamins and antioxidants. The olive oil and fresh herbs add heart-healthy fats and a boost of flavor without any processed ingredients, making this a well-rounded meal you can feel good about.
Why This Recipe Works for Everyone
What makes this Greek Garlic Chicken so special is its balance of flavors and textures. The bright, herbaceous marinade on the chicken contrasts beautifully with the earthy, creamy mushroom pesto, while the roasted potatoes add a comforting, hearty element. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted for various dietary needs—gluten-free, dairy-free, or even low-carb if you swap the potatoes for roasted veggies like zucchini or cauliflower. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this meal is sure to impress.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Garlic Chicken with Roasted Potatoes & Creamy Mushroom Pesto is a delightful way to bring Mediterranean flavors to your table with a modern twist. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. The combination of tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and velvety pesto is a match made in heaven, and the vibrant flavors will transport you straight to the sunny shores of Greece. Give this recipe a try, and let us know how it turned out in the comments below! Share your photos with us—we’d love to see your creations. Happy cooking! 🇬🇷✨
