Ah, the Mediterranean – home to azure seas, golden sands, and an abundance of vibrant and tantalizing flavors. This Mediterranean Chicken Skillet captures the essence of this sunny region on a plate, merging the juiciness of chicken with the zest of tomatoes and the tang of olives. It’s a dish that instantly transports you to a seaside café with every bite.
Perfect for a weekday dinner or a special occasion, it's simplicity in preparation but richness in taste. Let’s set sail on a culinary voyage!
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
A Balance of Flavors: One of the hallmarks of Mediterranean cuisine is its harmonious blend of fresh ingredients. The chicken provides a hearty, neutral base, complemented by the acidity and freshness of tomatoes. The olives, with their briny kick, add depth and a unique touch to the palette. Each bite offers a delightful play of savory, tangy, and aromatic notes.
Simple and Nutritious: Beyond its scrumptious taste, this skillet recipe is a win-win when it comes to preparation. With minimal ingredients and one pan, you get a dish that’s both quick to prepare and easy to clean up afterward. Moreover, the combination of lean protein from the chicken and antioxidants from the tomatoes and olives not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a healthful meal, packed with essential nutrients. This is not just a meal; it's a wholesome experience that caters to the soul and body. So why wait? Dive into the Mediterranean magic right in your kitchen!
Ingredients
Chicken Breasts-Lean, tender cut of chicken that cooks quickly. Substitute: Chicken thighs for juicier results, but they have more fat.
Cherry Tomatoes-Sweet, bite-sized tomatoes that burst with flavor.Substitute: Diced regular tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes.
Olives- Green olives that are a bit tangy and salty. Substitute: black olives, though flavor profile changes slightly.
Olive Oil-Healthy fat that's essential for Mediterranean dishes. Substitute: Avocado oil or grapeseed oil for high-heat cooking.
Garlic: Adds an aromatic punch to dishes. Substitute: Garlic powder or minced bottled garlic.
Tips
- Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
- Don't overcook the tomatoes – they should just soften and burst.
- Pit the olives if they aren't already to avoid biting into hard pits.
- For added flavor, sprinkle some feta cheese or parmesan over the top before serving.
- Feel free to add a splash of white wine or chicken broth for a saucier result.
How to Serve
This Mediterranean-inspired skillet dish brings the fresh flavors of the sea to your plate. The combination of chicken, tomatoes, and olives promises a taste of summer in every bite.
- Pasta: Toss this skillet dish with cooked spaghetti or penne, allowing the juices to meld with the pasta.
- Bread: Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the savory juices from the skillet.
- Salad: Pair with a light Greek salad with cucumbers, red onion, feta cheese, and a lemon-olive oil dressing for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Looking for more ideas? Check out What To Serve With Mediterranean Chicken for 15 delicious recipes 🙂
Similar Recipes
Mediterranean Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup Kalamata olives pitted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves minced
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add chicken breasts, and cook until golden brown on both sides and almost cooked through.
- Add cherry tomatoes and olives to the skillet. Cook until tomatoes start to burst and release their juices.
- Lower the heat, cover, and let simmer for about 7-10 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
- Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
- Don't overcook the tomatoes – they should just soften and burst.
- Pit the olives if they aren't already to avoid biting into hard pits.
- For added flavor, sprinkle some feta cheese or parmesan over the top before serving.
- Feel free to add a splash of white wine or chicken broth for a saucier result.