Sharon BrownImagine setting the table for a culinary feast that transports you right to a sunny terrace overlooking the azure Mediterranean. Mediterranean chicken is a star dish on your plate, and it deserves worthy companions.
Consider pairing it with a vibrant Greek salad, a side of fluffy couscous, or perhaps some warm pita bread laced with olive oil and herbs. A glass of chilled white wine can complement these flavors beautifully, while some simple roasted vegetables can add a touch of earthiness to your meal.
Now, let’s dive into the delightful world of Mediterranean chicken!
I’m excited to share this Mediterranean chicken recipe with you. I’ve spent years exploring flavors from around the globe, and there’s something about the Mediterranean that sings to me.
If you’re looking for a healthy, delicious, and easy dinner option, you’ve landed in the right spot. This dish is packed with flavor, nutrition, and makes for a great weeknight meal or a dinner party star.
So, let’s get into it, shall we?
What is Mediterranean Chicken?
Mediterranean chicken combines juicy chicken breasts marinated with bold flavors typical of the Mediterranean region. We’re talking about bright lemon, aromatic herbs, and a splash of white wine, which all come together to create a dish that bursts with fresh taste.
It’s simple yet impressive, making it perfect for busy weeknights or an elegant dinner with friends.
For me, Mediterranean chicken offers a balance between simplicity and flair. You don’t need to be a master chef to pull it off, but serving it can make you feel like one!
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
When I think of Mediterranean cuisine, I envision sun-drenched aromas and a kick of zest. This chicken dish features a harmony of flavors.
The tangy lemon juice hits your palate first, followed by the rich notes of extra virgin olive oil. Next, the dried oregano sinks in, taking you to a garden full of fresh herbs.
The addition of capers adds a briny kick that elevates the whole dish. And let’s not forget the subtle heat from the crushed red pepper flakes. Each bite is a delightful dance of citrus, earthiness, and a hint of spice. Trust me, it’s a flavor journey you won’t forget.
Why You’ll Love This?
You’ll love this Mediterranean chicken for several reasons:
1. Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in under an hour!
2. Flavor-Packed: Bursting with delicious flavors that awaken the taste buds.
3. Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh ingredients.
4. Adaptable: Easily customize it with veggies or herbs you prefer.
5. Impressive Presentation: Great for entertaining while keeping your stress levels low.
If you’re thinking of trying something fresh and vibrant, this dish is calling your name!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece:
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano, split
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons high-quality extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 large lemon, freshly juiced
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon capers
- 1 medium red onion, finely diced
- 4 small ripe tomatoes, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1/4 cup sliced Kalamata olives
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped (stems removed)
- Coarse sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic or garlic paste
- Crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s break this down into manageable steps. Follow along and you’ll have a stunning dish on the table in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the white wine, the juice of one lemon, half the oregano, olive oil, garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk this together until it’s well mixed. This will be your magic marinade.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you’ve got more time, letting it sit for a couple of hours is better.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once it’s hot, toss in the diced onion. Sauté until translucent, which should take about 4-5 minutes. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, inviting everyone for a taste!
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Remove the marinated chicken from the bag and gently pat it dry. This helps achieve a nice sear. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than searing.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Once the chicken is browned, add the remaining marinade back into the pan along with the chicken stock, capers, tomatoes, olives, and the rest of the oregano. Bring it to a gentle simmer, covering the skillet. This sumptuous sauce will develop as the chicken finishes cooking.
Step 6: Finish Cooking
Let everything simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and offers no resistance. Drizzle a bit more lemon juice over the top for an extra kick.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley and, if you like, some crumbled feta cheese over the top. This adds a lovely creamy texture and a touch of saltiness.
Serve your Mediterranean chicken with your chosen sides, and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
1. Marinate Longer: If you can, marinate the chicken longer for deeper flavor absorption.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and lemons yield much better flavor than dried.
3. Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked.
4. Customize Vegetables: Feel free to toss in your favorite Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking.
5. Chill for Leftovers: Leftovers can be chilled in an airtight container. The flavors continue to deepen when stored!
How Can You Store This Mediterranean Chicken?
If you have leftovers, here’s how you can store them. Once cooled, place the chicken in an airtight container. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, just be gentle to keep the chicken moist.
Ingredient Alternatives
Sometimes, you might find yourself lacking an ingredient or two. No worries! Here are some alternatives you can consider:
- White Wine: If you’re out of white wine, chicken broth or even apple cider vinegar can work well to add acidity.
- Kalamata Olives: If you can’t find Kalamata olives, green olives or black olives are excellent substitutes, though they might alter the flavor slightly.
- Feta Cheese: For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or simply skip it altogether.
Best Mediterranean Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Skillet
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano split
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons high-quality extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 large lemon freshly juiced
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon capers
- 1 medium red onion finely diced
- 4 small ripe tomatoes chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1/4 cup sliced Kalamata olives
- A handful of fresh parsley chopped (stems removed)
- Coarse sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic or garlic paste
- Crumbled feta cheese optional
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the white wine, the juice of one lemon, half the oregano, olive oil, garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk this together until it’s well mixed. This will be your magic marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you’ve got more time, letting it sit for a couple of hours is better.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once it’s hot, toss in the diced onion. Sauté until translucent, which should take about 4-5 minutes. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, inviting everyone for a taste!
- Remove the marinated chicken from the bag and gently pat it dry. This helps achieve a nice sear. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than searing.
- Once the chicken is browned, add the remaining marinade back into the pan along with the chicken stock, capers, tomatoes, olives, and the rest of the oregano. Bring it to a gentle simmer, covering the skillet. This sumptuous sauce will develop as the chicken finishes cooking.
- Let everything simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and offers no resistance. Drizzle a bit more lemon juice over the top for an extra kick.
- Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley and, if you like, some crumbled feta cheese over the top. This adds a lovely creamy texture and a touch of saltiness.
- Serve your Mediterranean chicken with your chosen sides, and enjoy!
Notes
- Marinate Longer: If you can, marinate the chicken longer for deeper flavor absorption.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and lemons yield much better flavor than dried.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked.
- Customize Vegetables: Feel free to toss in your favorite Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking.
- 5. Chill for Leftovers: Leftovers can be chilled in an airtight container. The flavors continue to deepen when stored!
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
I hope you feel inspired to cook this Mediterranean chicken! Not only does it bring delightful flavors to your dinner table, but it’s also a wholesome, easy-to-make dish that you can feel good about serving.
The versatility of this recipe allows for creativity and imagination, making it easy to adjust to your family’s tastes.
So, dust off that apron and give this recipe a whirl. Each bite will remind you of summers in the Mediterranean – sunlit, vibrant, and oh-so-tasty! Happy cooking!
