Skillet Mediterranean Chicken Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen, this Skillet Mediterranean Chicken Recipe is the one for you. Juicy chicken breasts come together with a rich tomato sauce, fragrant garlic, and briny green olives, creating a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and healthy. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why It Works Every Time
The beauty of this Skillet Mediterranean Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity and the balance of flavors. The boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook quickly in a hot skillet, allowing them to sear beautifully while remaining tender and juicy. The combination of Italian seasoning, garlic, and olives infuses the chicken with Mediterranean flair, while the tomato sauce provides a rich base that ties the dish together. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
The Essentials
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star of the dish, providing lean protein.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the Mediterranean flavor profile.
- 4 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the chicken and adding richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a fragrant, savory note to the sauce.
- 1 onion, diced – Sweetens the dish and adds depth to the flavor.
- 2 cups tomato sauce – Creates a luscious base that complements the chicken.
- 1 cup pitted green olives – Adds a salty, briny kick that brightens the dish.
Tools of the Trade
- Large skillet – Essential for searing the chicken and simmering the sauce.
- Wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your skillet.
- Sharp knife – For dicing the onion and mincing the garlic.
- Cutting board – A safe surface for food preparation.
- Meat thermometer – Optional, but helpful for ensuring the chicken is fully cooked.
Skillet Mediterranean Chicken Recipe in Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Add the Olives
Stir in the pitted green olives. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the olives infuse their flavor into the sauce.
Step 6: Return the Chicken
Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbling, it’s time to serve! Plate the chicken with generous spoonfuls of the sauce, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Year-Round Variations
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Incorporate seasonal vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Replace green olives with kalamata olives for a richer flavor.
- Serve over a bed of quinoa or couscous for a heartier meal.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
Cooking this Skillet Mediterranean Chicken Recipe is a breeze, even for novice cooks! The key is to ensure you don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken, as this can lead to steaming rather than browning. If your skillet isn’t large enough, cook the chicken in batches. Additionally, feel free to customize the sauce with your favorite herbs or even a splash of white wine for an extra layer of flavor.
- For added richness, finish the dish with a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes until it reduces to your desired consistency.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
This Skillet Mediterranean Chicken Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can cook a batch in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through. This dish also freezes well! Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Questions People Ask
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and remain moist during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since they may take a few minutes longer to cook through.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the Skillet Mediterranean Chicken ahead of time. It keeps well in the fridge for up to four days, and the flavors deepen as it sits.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all of the ingredients in this Skillet Mediterranean Chicken Recipe are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
That’s a Wrap
This Skillet Mediterranean Chicken Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that combines the essence of the Mediterranean into one delicious dish. With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply enjoying a quiet night in, this dish promises to deliver warmth and satisfaction with every bite.
So gather your ingredients, heat up that skillet, and let the wonderful aromas fill your kitchen. Your taste buds will thank you!
Skillet Mediterranean Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the pitted green olives and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon some sauce over the top, and let simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Serve the chicken with generous spoonfuls of sauce and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- For added richness, finish the dish with a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
- This dish can be meal prepped and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
