Mediterranean Chicken With Olives

Name: Mediterranean Chicken With Olives
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless chicken breasts; 1 cup green olives, pitted and halved; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; Salt and black pepper to taste; 3 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Exotic Delights

I love cooking Mediterranean Chicken with Olives because it transports me straight to a sun-soaked coastline. The combination of tender chicken and briny olives creates an explosion of flavors that always impresses my family. We often serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The simplicity of the ingredients means that I can whip this dish up in no time, yet it always feels special and aromatic with vibrant Mediterranean herbs. It's one of my go-to recipes whenever I want something fresh and savory.

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2026-02-15T06:21:36.624Z

When I first tried making Mediterranean Chicken with Olives, I focused on getting the right balance between the chicken and the olives. I realized that marinating the chicken beforehand makes a significant difference; it allows the flavors to penetrate deeply. Using fresh herbs like oregano and thyme adds aromatic depth that elevates the dish beyond mere comfort food.

Another discovery was the addition of sun-dried tomatoes, which really enhances the overall flavor profile. I swear; you can’t skip this step! I was pleasantly surprised by how a few simple changes could turn a basic chicken dish into an extraordinary one.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Tender chicken infused with Mediterranean spices
Briny olives add a delicious depth of flavor
A quick one-pan dish, perfect for busy weeknights

Elevating Flavor with Fresh Herbs

The magic of Mediterranean Chicken with Olives lies in the herbs used. Fresh oregano and thyme not only brighten the dish but also contribute aromatic complexity that pairs beautifully with the hearty chicken. When prepping, be sure to chop the herbs finely to release their essential oils. If you can't find fresh herbs, dried herbs can be substituted, but use them sparingly—about one-third the amount—as their flavor is more concentrated.

Another tip is to add the herbs towards the end of cooking for a burst of freshness. You could sprinkle some additional oregano and thyme right before serving to create an enticing aroma that will captivate your guests. When handling herbs, remember to rub them between your fingers; this helps to enhance their fragrance even further!

Maximizing Texture and Moisture

Marinating the chicken is crucial for achieving tender and flavorful results. A minimum of 15 minutes is essential for the chicken to absorb the lemon juice and olive oil, which work together to tenderize the meat. If you have more time, letting the chicken marinate for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator will deepen the flavor even further. Always cover the bowl or use a zip-top bag to prevent contamination and preserve freshness.

When cooking in the skillet, it's important to monitor the heat carefully. If the skillet is too hot, the outside of the chicken can brown too quickly while the inside remains undercooked. Aim for medium heat, which allows the chicken to cook evenly, achieving a beautiful golden-brown color while ensuring it retains its juiciness. A meat thermometer reading 165°F will ensure that the chicken is perfectly cooked.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

4 boneless chicken breasts
1 cup green olives, pitted and halved
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 lemon, zested and juiced
Salt and black pepper to taste
3 tablespoons olive oil

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Mediterranean Chicken with Olives:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat well. Allow to marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes on each side.

Add Olives and Tomatoes

Add the green olives and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat, sprinkle with lemon zest, and serve warm. Enjoy it with a side of salad or roasted vegetables.

Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean feast!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. This dish can also be served over pasta or rice for a heartier meal.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, this dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s best to cool the chicken completely before sealing it to avoid condensation, which can lead to sogginess. Reheated chicken can often dry out, so to keep it juicy, consider reheating it gently in the skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth. This will help restore moisture without overcooking the chicken.

Should you want to make the dish ahead of time, you could prep everything up to the cooking stage. Marinate the chicken the night before and keep it in the refrigerator, then simply cook it fresh whenever you’re ready. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld more deeply.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a well-rounded meal, consider serving Mediterranean Chicken with Olives alongside a refreshing salad tossed with a light vinaigrette or a plate of roasted seasonal vegetables. The bright, tangy flavors of a salad help to balance the richness of the chicken. Additionally, you might want to serve it with couscous or quinoa, which will soak up the delicious juices from the dish.

If you want to add flair, consider incorporating additional ingredients like capers or artichoke hearts to the skillet. These add unique flavors that enhance the Mediterranean theme. You can also swap out olives—try Kalamata olives for a more robust taste, or even use feta cheese crumbled on top for a creamy texture contrast with the chicken.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of olives?

Yes, you can use black olives or a mix of both green and black for varied flavors.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the ingredients a day ahead. Cook it fresh when you're ready to serve.