MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN

In just one skillet, a combination of fragrant herbs, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and succulent, juicy chicken combine to create this Mediterranean Chicken. With this simple recipe that brings the aromas of the Mediterranean to your table, you may completely change your evening routine.

MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN DELIGHT: A FLAVORFUL JOURNEY FOR YOUR TASTE BUDS

Looking for a healthy and easy one pan dish? This scrumptious Mediterranean Chicken recipe is here to transport you to the sun-soaked landscapes with every bite. Packed with vibrant Mediterranean-inspired flavors and wholesome ingredients like succulent chicken, fresh veggies and fragrant herbs, this dish is a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.

Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting your culinary journey, this dish promises a flavorful adventure that captures the essence of the Mediterranean. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, low carb, paleo, keto-friendly and Whole30 compliant.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED

• Olive Oil: Kickstart your culinary adventure with the richness of olive oil or avocado oil, providing a base for the perfect sauté and enhancing the overall Mediterranean flavor.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The heart of this dish, these tender chicken breasts soak up the flavors of the Mediterranean, creating a succulent and protein-packed centerpiece.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatic ingredients form the flavor foundation, infusing the dish with a savory depth that will have your kitchen smelling divine.
• Zucchini: Adding a touch of freshness and crunch, zucchini slices bring a burst of color and texture to the dish, elevating its visual appeal.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Intensifying the Mediterranean essence, these sun-dried tomatoes provide a sweet and tangy kick, creating a delightful flavor contrast.
• Bell Peppers: The combination of red and orange/yellow bell peppers not only adds a pop of color but also contributes a sweet and savory dimension to the dish.
• Kalamata Olives: These briny, pitted olives add a burst of saltiness, rounding out the flavor profile and adding that distinctive Mediterranean touch.
• Low Sodium Chicken Broth: Crafting a savory broth that envelops the chicken and vegetables, the low-sodium chicken broth brings the dish together with a comforting and satisfying allure.
• Fresh Herbs – Cilantro, Parsley, Basil: These aromatic herbs provide a burst of freshness, enhancing the overall flavor and giving the dish its signature Mediterranean flair.
• Dried Oregano: Infusing the dish with a hint of earthy warmth, dried oregano adds depth to the flavor profile, tying everything together.
• Sea Salt and Black Pepper: Season to perfection with sea salt and black pepper, ensuring each bite is a harmonious blend of savory goodness.
• Lemon: Sliced lemon not only adds a zesty kick but also brightens up the dish, leaving your taste buds refreshed.

INSTRUCTIONS: HOW TO MAKE MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN

1. Season the Chicken:
   • Begin by seasoning the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with approximately 1/2 teaspoon of salt and pepper or to taste. Ensure an even coating for maximum flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken:
   • Heat 1/2 – 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and brown them for about 6 minutes on each side or until they achieve a medium-brown color. Once browned, set the chicken aside on a plate.
3. Saute Onion and Garlic:
   • In the same skillet, add another 1/2 – 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Saute the diced onion and minced garlic for about 1-2 minutes until softened, releasing their aromatic flavors.
4. Golden Zucchini Rounds:
   • Layer the sliced zucchini in the skillet, cooking until they develop a slight golden brown color, a few minutes on each side. Work in batches to ensure each round is perfectly cooked. Push the zucchini to one side of the skillet.
5. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Bell Peppers, and Olives:
   • To the skillet, add the sun-dried tomatoes, chopped bell peppers, and pitted Kalamata olives. Stir gently, allowing the flavors to meld with the sautéed zucchini.
6. Reintroduce Chicken and Chicken Broth:
   • Transfer the set-aside chicken back to the skillet. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Turn the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for about 7-9 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through, and the sauce slightly reduces.
7. Infuse with Herbs:
   • Stir in the dried oregano and the trio of fresh herbs – cilantro, basil, and parsley. Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for an additional 2 minutes, letting the herbs infuse their aromatic goodness.
8. Season to Perfection:
   • Season the Greek Chicken with additional salt and pepper to taste, ensuring a well-balanced flavor profile. Adjust according to your preferences.
9. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the dish with additional fresh herbs if desired. Serve the Mediterranean Chicken alongside your favorite sides, allowing the rich flavors to take center stage.

TIPS FOR SUCCESS:

• Temperature Control is Key: Ensure your skillet is preheated to the right temperature before introducing the chicken for perfectly browned chicken. This step guarantees a perfect sear, locking in the juices and flavors.
• Golden Zucchini Technique: Achieve golden perfection with your zucchini by patiently allowing each slice to develop a slight golden brown hue on both sides. This enhances both texture and visual appeal.
• Balanced Saute: When sautéing the onion and garlic, strike a balance by softening them just enough to release their flavors without losing their aromatic punch.
• Layering Technique: Master the art of layering when introducing sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, and olives. This ensures that each ingredient contributes its distinct flavor to the overall harmony.
• Gentle Simmering: Once the chicken is reintroduced, let it simmer gently. This not only ensures the chicken is thoroughly cooked but also allows the sauce to reduce, intensifying the flavors.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

Pair this delightful dish with fluffy couscous, fragrant basmati rice, or a crusty baguette to soak up every drop of the savory sauce. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables make the perfect sidekicks. Here are a few more ideas:

• Couscous with a Twist: Opt for a lemon-infused couscous or quinoa as a base to complement the Mediterranean flavors. The citrusy notes will enhance the overall taste.
• Mediterranean Salad Medley: Create a refreshing Mediterranean salad by combining cherry tomatoes, cucumber, feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve alongside the chicken for a delightful contrast.
• Yogurt Sauce Enhancement: Elevate your dish with a dollop of tzatziki or Greek yogurt sauce. The creamy texture and tangy flavor provide a delightful balance to the savory chicken.
• Grilled Veggie Extravaganza: Take advantage of the season and throw some bell peppers, zucchini, and onions on the grill for a smoky, charred dimension to accompany your Mediterranean Chicken.

VARIATIONS AND SUBSTITUTIONS:

Feel free to customize this recipe based on your preferences. Swap chicken breasts for thighs, adjust the vegetable medley, or experiment with different herbs to make it uniquely yours.

• Mediterranean Seafood Twist: Swap chicken for your favorite seafood like shrimp or cod to create a delightful Mediterranean seafood stew.
• Vegetarian Mediterranean Delight: For a meatless option, replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, creating a hearty vegetarian alternative.
• Spice It Up: Infuse some heat by adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during the sautéing stage for those who enjoy a spicier kick.

STORAGE, MAKE-AHEAD, AND FREEZER INSTRUCTIONS:

Storage: Store any leftover Greek Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors tend to deepen and intensify over time, making the dish even more delightful with each passing day.

Make-Ahead: Want to get ahead of the game? Prepare the Mediterranean Chicken a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld for an even more robust taste. Follow the recipe up to the point of simmering, then refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stove before serving, letting the savory aromas fill your kitchen once again.

FREEZER INSTRUCTIONS:

• Mediterranean Chicken is freezer-friendly, making it a fantastic option for batch cooking. Follow these steps for optimal results:
  1. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before freezing.
  2. Transfer the cooled Mediterranean Chicken to a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
  3. Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
  4. Freeze for up to three months.

REHEATING FROM THE FREEZER:

• When ready to enjoy your frozen masterpiece, follow these steps:
  1. Thaw the Mediterranean Chicken in the refrigerator overnight.
  2. Gently reheat on the stove over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain the integrity of the ingredients.
  3. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave, but be sure to stir periodically to ensure even reheating.

TIPS FOR MAINTAINING FLAVOR AND TEXTURE:

• To preserve the vibrant colors and textures of the vegetables, avoid overcooking during the initial preparation and reheating processes.
• If you find the dish has thickened during storage or freezing, add a splash of chicken broth during reheating to restore the desired consistency.

PORTION CONTROL AND BATCH COOKING:

• Consider dividing the Mediterranean chicken dish recipe into smaller portions before freezing. This allows for easy reheating of individual servings, reducing waste and ensuring you always have a delicious meal on hand.

MAKE IT A FREEZER MEAL TRADITION:

• Transform this chicken Mediterranean dish into a freezer meal tradition by preparing double batches during cooking sessions. This way, you’ll always have a taste of the Mediterranean waiting for you in the freezer, ready to be enjoyed whenever the craving strikes.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS):

Q1: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?A: Yes, dried herbs can be substituted for fresh ones. Adjust the quantities to your taste, keeping in mind that dried herbs are more potent.

Q2: Can I prepare this dish in advance? A: Absolutely! Prepare the dish a day ahead and let the flavors meld overnight. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

Q3: Can I use a different type of olives? A: Certainly! Experiment with green olives or a mix of varieties to discover your preferred flavor profile.