Mediterranean chicken is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings the sunny tastes of the Mediterranean right to your dinner table. It’s a perfect blend of juicy chicken, bright lemon, briny olives, fresh herbs, and tangy feta cheese. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, Mediterranean chicken is a delicious choice that’s surprisingly simple to make. Let’s dive into how you can make this mouthwatering recipe at home!
What You’ll Need to Make Mediterranean Chicken
Before you start cooking, gather these ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons minced garlic or garlic paste
– Kosher salt and black pepper
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano (divided)
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– Juice of 1 large lemon
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
– 4 small tomatoes, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
– 1/4 cup sliced green olives
– A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
– Crumbled feta cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
These ingredients combine to create a rich sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mediterranean Chicken
1. Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step helps the chicken get a beautiful golden-brown sear. Then, make three shallow slits on each side of the chicken breasts — this allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
Rub the garlic all over the chicken, pushing some into the slits you made. Season generously with salt, pepper, and half of the dried oregano. This simple seasoning forms the base of the dish’s bold Mediterranean flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the chicken breasts and sear them on both sides until they turn a light golden color. This step locks in the juices and builds a flavorful crust.
3. Braise the Chicken in a Flavorful Sauce
Once seared, pour in the white wine and let it reduce by half. Then add the lemon juice and chicken broth, sprinkling the remaining oregano on top. Reduce the heat to medium and cover the skillet with a lid or foil.
Cook the chicken for about 6 to 7 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 6 minutes. The chicken is done when the thickest part reaches 165°F internally. This braising technique keeps the chicken moist and infuses it with the tangy, herbaceous sauce.
4. Add the Fresh Vegetables and Finish Cooking
Uncover the skillet and top the chicken with chopped onions, diced tomatoes, and sliced olives. Cover again and cook for 3 more minutes to soften the vegetables and meld all the flavors together.
Finally, sprinkle chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese over the top. The feta adds a creamy, salty finish that’s signature to Mediterranean cuisine.
What to Serve with Mediterranean Chicken
Mediterranean chicken is delicious on its own, but pairing it with a simple starch helps soak up the flavorful sauce. Try serving it with:
– Couscous or quinoa
– Roasted or steamed vegetables
– A fresh Greek salad
– Warm pita bread
Adding a side of Mediterranean couscous salad or oven-roasted veggies can round out the meal beautifully.
Tips for Making the Best Mediterranean Chicken
– Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
– Don’t skip the searing step—it adds essential texture and flavor.
– If you want to save time, use pitted olives.
– Feel free to add a splash of white wine to deepen the sauce’s complexity.
– Use fresh herbs like parsley and oregano for the best aroma and taste.
Variations to Try
– Mediterranean Baked Chicken: Instead of skillet cooking, bake the chicken with tomatoes, olives, and herbs for a hands-off approach.
– Add Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts for extra color and nutrition.
– Swap Feta: If you prefer, use mozzarella or goat cheese as a creamy topping.
Why Mediterranean Chicken Is a Great Choice
This dish is not only flavorful but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients and offers a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and fresh veggies. Plus, the Mediterranean diet is known for its health benefits, so you’re treating your body well while enjoying a tasty meal.
Mediterranean chicken brings a taste of the coast into your kitchen with its bright, fresh, and savory flavors. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation.
Enjoy your cooking adventure and buon appetito!
Mediterranean chicken is a simple, flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken with bright lemon, olives, and herbs for a delicious meal anyone can make at home.