Mediterranean Chicken

Growing up, family dinners always had that special something, and one dish that consistently brought warmth and joy was Mediterranean Chicken. I remember watching my mom prepare it with her colorful array of ingredients. The vibrant hues of the fresh vegetables and the fragrant herbs would fill our kitchen, making it impossible to resist the delicious meal that awaited us. This dish is a delightful fusion of flavors that transports you straight to the sun-soaked coasts of the Mediterranean. As the aroma wafted through the air, we gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter. Each bite of the tender chicken, enriched by the salty tang of feta and the briny notes of olives, was nothing short of a culinary hug. It’s truly a dish that brings people together, making every meal feel like a celebration.

What You’ll Need for Mediterranean Chicken

When it comes to creating a delicious Mediterranean Chicken, the ingredients are what set this dish apart. Using fresh, quality components allows the flavors to shine through. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in bringing this delightful dish together. Let’s explore the key players that make this recipe so special.

• 2 large chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing lean protein and a hearty base.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of the chicken.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a fragrant, earthy note that’s characteristic of Mediterranean cuisine.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings a subtle, herbaceous flavor to the mix.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Introduces a mild sweetness and depth without the texture of fresh onions.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil: The perfect fat for sautéing, imparting richness and flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: A must for that aromatic punch that pairs perfectly with chicken.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor, ensuring the chicken stays juicy.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Provides a burst of sweetness and color.
• 5 tablespoons kalamata olives, pitted: Imparts a salty, briny flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 1 tablespoon capers, drained: Adds a zesty tang that brightens the dish.
• 2 1/2 cups fresh baby spinach: A nutritious addition that wilts beautifully and adds vibrant color.
• 2/3 cup crumbled feta cheese: The finishing touch that offers a creamy texture and tangy flavor.

Instructions for Mediterranean Chicken

Getting ready to cook Mediterranean Chicken is as exciting as the meal itself. The steps are simple, yet they lead to a dish that’s bursting with flavor and color. Let’s dive into the process of bringing this dish to life!

1. Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half horizontally to form four cutlets. This helps the chicken cook evenly and allows for quicker cooking. Season each piece generously with salt, pepper, dried oregano, thyme, and onion powder. The seasoning will create a delicious crust when seared.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken cutlets in the pan. Sear them for about six minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You want them to be golden brown on the outside and juicy on the inside. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

3. Lower the heat to medium and in the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about thirty seconds until fragrant; this should fill your kitchen with an irresistible smell. Then, pour in the chicken broth, and add the cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and capers. Let this mixture simmer for three to four minutes until the tomatoes start to soften. You’ll notice the sauce begins to thicken slightly.

4. Next, stir in the baby spinach and crumbled feta cheese. The heat will wilt the spinach almost immediately, creating a beautiful and colorful sauce. Make sure to mix everything well to incorporate the flavors fully.

5. Finally, return the seared chicken cutlets back to the skillet along with any juices that have collected on the plate. Allow everything to warm together for about one to two minutes, or until the spinach is nicely wilted. This step is important as it melds all the flavors together.

6. Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve immediately and enjoy the wonderfully vibrant flavors of your Mediterranean Chicken. This is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for later meals.

Helpful Hints

Before you embark on making Mediterranean Chicken, here are some helpful hints to ensure success in your cooking journey. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cook, these tips will help you create an amazing dish.

• Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should keep well for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish before cooking. Just be sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of couscous or a fresh salad to complement the flavors.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs such as basil or parsley for a different flavor profile.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve with a lemon wedge to add a zesty freshness that pairs perfectly with the chicken.

Best Served With

When it comes to serving Mediterranean Chicken, the options are as vibrant as the dish itself. Consider these delightful pairings:

• Greek Salad: A fresh Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta complements the flavors beautifully.
• Couscous: Serve with fluffy couscous to soak up the savory juices from the chicken.
• Pita Bread: Warm pita is perfect for scooping up the delicious mixture of chicken and veggies.
• Rice Pilaf: A lemon-infused rice pilaf provides a light and zesty base that enhances the dish.
• Grilled Vegetables: A side of grilled vegetables adds a smoky char that pairs wonderfully with the Mediterranean flavors.
• Seasonal Fruits: Fresh fruits like watermelon or grapes offer a refreshing contrast to the savory dish.

FAQ

Conclusion

Mediterranean Chicken is truly a dish that encapsulates the essence of home-cooked goodness. The vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients make it a standout meal that you can enjoy any day of the week. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll find that it’s not just about the food, but the memories created around the table. So, gather your loved ones and savor this delightful dish together!

Mediterranean Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Mediterranean Chicken is a flavorful and easy weeknight dinner that combines juicy chicken with vibrant veggies and tangy feta. This dish is packed with fresh ingredients and a delightful medley of spices. Make it tonight for a taste of the Mediterranean that will satisfy your cravings!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Saucepan
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 2 large chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
• 5 tablespoons kalamata olives pitted
• 1 tablespoon capers drained
• 2 1/2 cups fresh baby spinach
• 2/3 cup crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

 

• Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to form four cutlets. Season each piece with salt, pepper, dried oregano, thyme, and onion powder.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken cutlets for about 6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
• Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chicken broth, cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and capers. Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
• Stir in the baby spinach and crumbled feta cheese. Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet along with any juices from the plate. Allow everything to warm together until the spinach wilts, about 1 to 2 minutes.
• Adjust seasoning if needed and serve immediately.

Notes

Extra tips or suggestions here.

Keyword chicken recipes, easy Mediterranean recipes, Healthy Dinner Recipes, Mediterranean Chicken

Previous PostMangalorean Chicken Curry

Next Post Italian Chicken Cutlets

Meet Maya Carlson

I believe that every dish tells a story through its colors and textures. I apply my artistic eye to everything we make. I love being hands-on with every recipe, helping to plate a savory stew just as beautifully as a dessert. I enjoy the challenge of making every single genre of food look as good as it tastes. If we are cooking, I am right there in the mix, styling and seasoning until it’s perfect.