Mediterranean Chicken With Olives
Highlighted under: Traditional World Food Favorites
I absolutely love making Mediterranean Chicken with Olives because it's a dish that brings vibrant flavors to my dinner table. The combo of juicy chicken, zesty olives, and aromatic herbs creates a melody of tastes that’s irresistible. It's not only satisfying, but it also transports me to the beautiful Mediterranean coast with every bite. Plus, it's surprisingly simple to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be hooked!
When I first tried making Mediterranean Chicken with Olives at home, I was amazed at how effortlessly the flavors meld together. I marinated the chicken in a mix of herbs, garlic, and lemon juice, which made the meat incredibly tender. It’s the olives that add that distinctive Mediterranean flair, with their salty brininess complementing the chicken beautifully.
One tip I learned was to sear the chicken before adding the olives and tomatoes, which helps lock in the juices and adds a lovely caramelized flavor. It really elevates the dish and makes it feel more restaurant-worthy, even when cooking at home!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bold flavors of the Mediterranean in every bite
- Juicy chicken paired with tangy olives for a perfect balance
- Quick and simple preparation that impresses anyone
Flavorful Marination
Marinating the chicken breasts is a crucial step to infuse them with the vibrant Mediterranean flavors. The olive oil not only adds richness but also helps to tenderize the chicken. I recommend allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes, though up to 2 hours is ideal for a deeper flavor profile. If you're short on time, even a quick 10-minute soak can enhance the taste noticeably.
The combination of garlic, lemon juice, and herbs in the marinade plays a vital role. Garlic adds a pungent kick, while lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the olives and chicken. This acidic component helps the chicken retain moisture during cooking, ensuring juicy, flavorful bites.
Cooking Techniques
Searing the chicken in a hot skillet is essential for developing a beautiful golden-brown crust. When you add the chicken to the skillet, listen for a satisfying sizzle—that's the sound of flavor building. Aim for 5-6 minutes per side until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If the skillet is too crowded, consider searing in batches to avoid steaming the chicken.
After searing, adding the vegetables and olives creates a delightful sauce that complements the chicken. The tomatoes will break down as they simmer for 15 minutes, creating a rich base that merges the flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, and adjust the heat if necessary to maintain a gentle simmer.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 1 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and sear for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Add Vegetables and Olives
Reduce the heat to medium. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, olives, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well and simmer for 15 minutes.
Serve
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Pro Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of white wine when simmering the sauce or topping with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, serve Mediterranean Chicken with Olives over a bed of fluffy couscous or alongside a fresh Greek salad. The refreshing crunch of the salad pairs beautifully with the savory chicken, while couscous absorbs the flavorful sauce, creating a satisfying meal. You could also offer some crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
For a touch of brightness, garnish with additional fresh parsley or a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a creamy, tangy contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (though they’re often devoured quickly!), store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at medium power to maintain the moisture levels in the chicken. Overheating can dry out the meat, so it's important to warm it gradually.
For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. To do this, let it cool completely and then pack it into a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean whenever you please.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, skin-on chicken will add more flavor and richness but may require slightly longer cooking time.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
Mediterranean chicken pairs well with couscous, rice, or a fresh green salad.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve flavor.
→ Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the fridge to save time on the day of cooking.
Mediterranean Chicken With Olives
I absolutely love making Mediterranean Chicken with Olives because it's a dish that brings vibrant flavors to my dinner table. The combo of juicy chicken, zesty olives, and aromatic herbs creates a melody of tastes that’s irresistible. It's not only satisfying, but it also transports me to the beautiful Mediterranean coast with every bite. Plus, it's surprisingly simple to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be hooked!
Created by: Lauren Mitchell
Recipe Type: Traditional World Food Favorites
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 1 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and sear for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Reduce the heat to medium. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, olives, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well and simmer for 15 minutes.
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Extra Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of white wine when simmering the sauce or topping with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 32g