Introduction to Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Lemons & Olives
Hello, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, life can be a whirlwind of activities, juggling work and family commitments. That’s why I’m excited to share my Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Lemons & Olives. This dish is not just quick and easy; it’s a flavorful meal that makes weeknight dinners feel special. The zesty lemons and savory olives create a delightful harmony that will impress your loved ones without adding stress to your busy day. Let’s dive into this culinary gem that brightens up any table!
Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Lemons & Olives
This Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Lemons & Olives is your answer to stress-free cooking. It comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The vibrant flavors of zesty lemon and briny olives create a dish that’s not only delicious but also impressive. With minimal prep and clean-up, you’ll have more time to enjoy your meal and soak in those precious moments with your family. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Lemons & Olives
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward culinary success! For this Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Lemons & Olives, you’ll need some delightful elements that create a flavor-packed meal. Here’s a quick overview:
- Garlic paste or minced garlic: This adds a robust flavor. You can use fresh garlic for a more intense aroma.
- Dried oregano: An essential herb in Mediterranean cooking, it lends a warm, earthy taste.
- Italian seasoning: This blend offers a hint of variety, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Salt and fresh ground black pepper: These basic seasonings are crucial for elevating every other ingredient’s taste.
- Skinless boneless chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, they’re a fantastic choice that cooks beautifully.
- Olive oil: This healthy fat not only adds richness but is vital for browning your chicken.
- Yellow onion: Finely diced, this aromatic veggie adds sweetness and depth.
- Fresh garlic: Because more garlic never hurt anyone, right? It enhances the dish’s profile.
- Lemon: Thinly sliced, lemons brighten the dish with their zesty tang, making every bite refreshing.
- White wine: Use your favorite! It adds complexity and a subtle acidity to the sauce.
- Chicken broth: This provides a rich base for cooking and infuses moisture into the dish.
- Marinated olives: These little gems lend a salty brine that complements the chicken perfectly.
Feel free to adjust the amounts to suit your taste. Want extra olives? Go for it! Prefer a hint of extra lemon? A squeeze here and there won’t hurt. All exact quantities are available at the bottom of this article for printing and ease in the kitchen.
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Lemons & Olives
Now that we’ve gathered all our ingredients, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and dive into this delightful Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Lemons & Olives! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a mouthwatering meal in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Let’s start by giving our chicken some flavor love. In a large bowl, combine the garlic paste, dried oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and fresh ground black pepper.
Mix until the spices are well incorporated. Then, grab those juicy skinless boneless chicken thighs and rub the garlic-spice mixture all over them. Cover each piece evenly for maximum flavor. Set aside while we get the pan ready.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Thighs
Heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot and shimmering, carefully place the chicken thighs in the pan.
Cook them for 5 to 6 minutes, or until they start to turn golden brown. Use tongs to flip them over and let the other side brown for another 5 minutes. Remember, safety first! Watch out for any hot oil splatters!
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in the finely diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Season lightly with salt. Stir them around for about 3 minutes, letting the onions soften and that lovely aroma fill your kitchen.
Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn; we want them golden and fragrant, adding the perfect flavor boost to our dish!
Step 4: Create the Zesty Base
Now it’s time to turn up the brightness. Add the thinly sliced lemons and your favorite white wine to the skillet. As they sizzle, use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This step adds next-level flavor!
Let it simmer for about 3 minutes. The liquid will reduce slightly while infusing all those vibrant flavors.
Step 5: Simmer and Combine Flavors
Pour in the chicken broth and gently return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet. Bring everything to a quick boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Let it cook for about 5 minutes before tossing in those delicious marinated olives. Allow everything to meld together for another 10 minutes. The tantalizing scents will make your kitchen smell heavenly!
Step 6: Serve Your Dish
After waiting patiently, it’s time to plate up! Turn off the heat and let the skillet rest for about 5 to 7 minutes. This helps the flavors settle and thickens the sauce slightly.
Plate the chicken thighs and ladle the olives and sauce generously over the top. Serve with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite of this Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Lemons & Olives; it’s truly delightful!
Tips for Success
- Always taste as you go! Adjust seasoning for your family’s preference.
- For tender chicken, don’t overcook; it should reach 165°F internally.
- Let the dish rest before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
- Experiment with different olives for varied flavors!
- Make it ahead! This dish reheats wonderfully for leftovers.
Equipment Needed
- Large Nonstick Skillet: A good quality skillet ensures even cooking. If you don’t have nonstick, a cast iron pan works great!
- Wooden Spoon: Perfect for mixing and scraping those tasty bits off the pan.
- Meat Thermometer: Essential for checking the chicken’s doneness—safety first!
- Plate: For resting the chicken after cooking and before serving.
Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: This Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Lemons & Olives is already gluten-free, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
- Herb Swaps: Try using fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of dried oregano for a more vibrant flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat—perfect for those who love a little spice!
- Vegetable Medley: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and nutrients. Just sauté them with the onions.
- Vegan Adaptation: Substitute chicken thighs with hearty chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based version that’s equally delicious.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with Rice: Fluffy white rice absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad adds a refreshing crunch alongside the dish.
- Crispy Bread: Warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- Complementary Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the zesty flavors.
- Garnish: Fresh parsley or basil sprinkled on top makes for a beautiful presentation!
FAQs about Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Lemons & Olives
As I share my Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Lemons & Olives, I often get questions about the process and best practices. Here are some FAQs to help you navigate this delicious dish!
Can I use different cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! While I prefer skinless boneless chicken thighs for their juiciness, you can use chicken breasts or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
What kind of olives should I use?
I recommend marinated olives for their rich flavor, but you can use Kalamata or Castelvetrano olives if you prefer. Keep it simple; just make sure they’re pitted!
Is this Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Lemons & Olives suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish reheats wonderfully and tastes even better the next day. Just store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Perfect for packed lunches!
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you’re craving more heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions and garlic. It adds a delightful kick that balances beautifully with the zesty lemons!
Can I make this dish without wine?
Of course! If you prefer to skip the wine, you can substitute it with an extra splash of chicken broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity. Your dish will still shine!
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Lemons & Olives has a way of turning an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience. The bright flavors of lemon and the savory notes of olives create a delightful symphony that brings joy not only to your taste buds but also to your family gatherings. Cooking this dish is like taking a mini-vacation to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean, even if it’s just for dinner. I hope it fills your home with warmth and happiness, just as it has for mine. Enjoy every delicious bite, and may your kitchen be forever filled with love and laughter!
Print
Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Lemons & Olives
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful Mediterranean chicken recipe featuring tender chicken thighs, zesty lemons, and savory olives, perfect for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste, or minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 pieces skinless boneless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small lemon, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup white wine, use your favorite
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup marinated olives
Instructions
- Combine garlic paste, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl; mix until thoroughly incorporated.
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and rub the paste into the chicken until evenly coated; set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet or pan over medium-heat.
- Remove previously prepared chicken thighs from the bowl and add them to the hot oil. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, or until chicken begins to brown; turn them over and continue to cook for about 5 more minutes, or until browned.
- Remove chicken thighs from skillet and set aside.
- Add the onions and garlic to the pan; season with salt and cook for about 3 minutes, or until onions are soft. Stir frequently.
- Lower heat to a medium and add the lemon slices and wine, stirring to loosen any browned bits stuck to the bottom; cook for 3 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth, return the thighs to the skillet, and bring to a boil; lower heat to a simmer and continue to cook for 5 minutes.
- Add the olives and continue simmering for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let stand 5 to 7 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed, but not all of it.
- Serve chicken and ladle olives and liquid over the chicken thighs.
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the amount of olives and lemon slices based on personal preference.
- This dish pairs well with rice or a fresh salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh with sauce
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
