Mediterranean Chicken With Olives And Tomatoes

Name: Mediterranean Chicken With Olives And Tomatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; Feta cheese for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Worldly Delights

I absolutely love making Mediterranean Chicken with Olives and Tomatoes; it's a dish that's as vibrant in flavor as it is in color! The combination of juicy chicken, briny olives, and ripe tomatoes creates a symphony of tastes that transport me straight to the Mediterranean coast. It's a recipe that brings the family together, and every bite reminds me of sun-soaked afternoons. Plus, it's so easy to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings alike.

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:17:36.045Z

When I first tried making this Mediterranean Chicken, I was amazed at how simply adding olives transformed an ordinary dish into something extraordinary. The saltiness of the olives pairs perfectly with the fresh basil and tomatoes, creating a Mediterranean flavor explosion! I’ve learned that searing the chicken before adding the tomatoes makes it incredibly juicy, locking in all those delightful flavors.

One specific tip that really enhances this dish is using high-quality olives; they add depth and a lovely texture. I also like to finish it off with a sprinkle of feta cheese for a creamy contrast—honestly, the flavors dance together beautifully! This meal never fails to impress my guests and family alike!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously aromatic herbs that elevate every bite
Juicy chicken paired with tangy olives for perfect balance
One-pan cooking means less cleanup and more family time

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of chicken thighs for this recipe is crucial; they remain tender and juicy even after cooking, unlike chicken breasts, which can dry out. The skinless design allows the vibrant flavors of the olives and tomatoes to penetrate the meat while staying health-conscious. If you prefer a leaner cut, boneless chicken breasts can be substituted, but be mindful to adjust cooking times to ensure they remain juicy and do not overcook.

Kalamata olives contribute a rich, briny depth, contrasting beautifully with the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes. If Kalamata is unavailable, green olives may work in a pinch, though they will impart a different flavor profile. Likewise, you can use grape tomatoes in place of cherry tomatoes, ensuring they are halved to release their juices into the dish, which helps create a delicious sauce.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Searing the chicken is a crucial step that builds flavor right from the beginning. Using medium-high heat allows for a beautifully golden-brown crust, which adds depth to the entire dish. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than searing. If you're working with a larger batch, consider searing in batches to maintain that crisp texture.

When it comes to simmering the chicken with the tomatoes and olives, covering the skillet is key. This traps steam inside, helping the chicken cook evenly while infusing it with the flavors of the sauce. Aim for a simmering temperature, where small bubbles occasionally break the surface, ensuring that the dish remains gentle enough to keep the chicken tender.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful Mediterranean experience:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Feta cheese for garnish (optional)

Now that we have everything ready, let's get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for an easy and satisfying meal:

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook for 3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Olives

Stir in the cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives, and cook for about 5 minutes until tomatoes are softened.

Combine and Finish Cooking

Return the seared chicken to the skillet, pouring in the balsamic vinegar. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and feta cheese if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or over rice.

Enjoy your Mediterranean chicken dish with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking. It will enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Mediterranean chicken dish is excellent for meal prep. Once cooked, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat to avoid drying out the chicken, and add a splash of water or broth if necessary to keep the sauce moist.

If you're looking to freeze this meal, ensure it's cooled completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. You can freeze the dish for up to three months. To reheat, transfer to the refrigerator the night before serving, then warm on the stovetop, adding a bit of liquid to ensure it retains its delicious flavors and moisture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this dish shines on its own, serving it with a side of crusty bread is a delightful addition. The bread acts as a perfect vehicle for soaking up the savory sauce. Alternatively, consider serving it over a bed of couscous or rice to make it a heartier meal, incorporating a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

For a twist, you can incorporate vegetables like spinach or zucchini into the mix during the last few minutes of cooking, offering added nutrition and color. Additionally, for a refreshing finish, drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil and an extra sprinkle of fresh basil when serving to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work fine. Just be mindful that they can dry out more easily, so adjust cooking times as necessary.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or even artichokes for more veggies and flavor!

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.

→ Can leftovers be stored?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.