Easy 30-minute Mediterranean chicken recipe with olives & artichokes
Welcome to our delicious and easy 30-minute Mediterranean chicken recipe! If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful meal that combines the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, then you’ve come to the right place. This recipe is the perfect balance of tender chicken, briny olives, and tangy artichokes, all simmered in a savory tomato sauce. It’s a one-pan wonder that will transport your taste buds to the shores of the Mediterranean.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to love this Mediterranean chicken recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and 30 minutes of your time, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for everyone.
Not only is this dish quick and easy, but it’s also packed with flavor. The combination of olives and artichokes gives the chicken a briny and tangy taste that is truly irresistible. The tomato sauce adds a rich and savory element that ties all the flavors together. It’s the kind of dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering Mediterranean chicken recipe:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, quartered
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional ingredient substitutions:
- If you prefer, you can use bone-in chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a richer flavor.
- Feel free to use any variety of olives you have on hand, such as green olives or a mix of different types.
- If you don’t have artichoke hearts, you can substitute with marinated artichoke quarters.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delicious Mediterranean chicken:
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Add the cherry tomatoes, olives, and artichoke hearts to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and sprinkle in the dried oregano and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 15 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the Mediterranean chicken with a generous spoonful of the sauce and your favorite side dish.
Expert Tips for Success:
To ensure the best results with this Mediterranean chicken recipe, here are a few expert tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- For a creamier sauce, stir in a couple of tablespoons of Greek yogurt or heavy cream at the end.
- Make sure to use a skillet that is large enough to fit all the ingredients comfortably. If your skillet is too small, the chicken may not cook evenly.
Variations and Substitutions
This Mediterranean chicken recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:
- If you’re vegetarian, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a protein-packed alternative.
- Add some fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, to brighten up the flavors.
- For a heartier meal, serve the Mediterranean chicken over cooked couscous or quinoa.
- If you’re not a fan of artichokes, you can omit them or replace them with sun-dried tomatoes for a different burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Mediterranean chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy couscous or steamed rice.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or basil, for a pop of color.
- Pair with a refreshing Greek salad and some warm pita bread.
- For a complete Mediterranean feast, serve with roasted vegetables and a side of tzatziki sauce.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Absolutely! This Mediterranean chicken can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the leftovers of this Mediterranean chicken recipe. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Bone-in chicken, such as chicken thighs or drumsticks, will work just as well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! Our easy 30-minute Mediterranean chicken recipe with olives & artichokes is the perfect way to bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your dinner table. With its quick preparation and delicious combination of ingredients, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean in the comfort of your own home.
We hope you try this recipe and love it as much as we do. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you tried. Happy cooking!
Easy 30-minute Mediterranean chicken recipe with olives & artichokes
A delicious and easy 30-minute Mediterranean chicken dish that combines tender chicken, briny olives, and tangy artichokes in a savory tomato sauce. This one-pan wonder is packed with vibrant Mediterranean flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, quartered
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
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Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Cook the seasoned chicken breasts for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown; set aside.
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Sauté onion and garlic in the skillet until translucent and fragrant.
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Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and artichoke hearts to the skillet; stir to combine.
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Pour in diced tomatoes, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
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Return the chicken to the skillet, nestle them into the sauce.
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Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 15 minutes until cooked through.
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Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest before slicing.
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Serve the Mediterranean chicken with the sauce and your favorite side dish.
