Name: Mediterranean Chicken: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin; 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped; 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped; 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved; 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, quartered; 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped; 2 tablespoons lemon juice, fresh; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt: To taste; Black pepper: To taste; Optional: Cooked couscous or quinoa, for serving

Mediterranean Chicken, a dish bursting with sunshine and vibrant flavors, is about to become your new weeknight staple. Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with the aromatic herbs and bright vegetables that define the Mediterranean diet. Are you ready to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed shores of Greece and Italy without even leaving your kitchen?

The beauty of Mediterranean Chicken lies not only in its deliciousness but also in its rich history. The Mediterranean diet, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients and healthy fats. This culinary tradition has been passed down through generations, celebrating simple yet flavorful dishes that nourish both body and soul. It's a way of life, a celebration of community, and a testament to the power of good food.

People adore this dish for its incredible taste and ease of preparation. The combination of savory chicken, tangy tomatoes, briny olives, and fragrant herbs creates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, it's incredibly versatile! You can serve it with rice, pasta, quinoa, or even a simple salad for a complete and balanced meal. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a healthy and delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to experience the magic of the Mediterranean in every bite!

Ingredients:

Chicken: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
Olive Oil: 4 tablespoons, extra virgin
Red Onion: 1 medium, thinly sliced
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
Bell Peppers: 1 red, 1 yellow, seeded and chopped
Cherry Tomatoes: 1 pint, halved
Kalamata Olives: 1 cup, pitted and halved
Artichoke Hearts: 1 (14-ounce) can, quartered
Feta Cheese: 4 ounces, crumbled
Fresh Oregano: 2 tablespoons, chopped
Fresh Basil: 2 tablespoons, chopped
Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, fresh
Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup
Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon
Salt: To taste
Black Pepper: To taste
Optional: Cooked couscous or quinoa, for serving

Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables:

First, let's get our chicken ready. Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels. This will help them brown nicely when we sear them. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Don't be shy with the seasoning – it's what gives the chicken its flavor!
Now, let's prep the vegetables. Thinly slice the red onion. I like to use a mandoline for this to get even slices, but a sharp knife works just as well. Mince the garlic. You can use a garlic press if you have one, or just chop it finely. Seed and chop the bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes and quarter the artichoke hearts. Make sure to drain the artichoke hearts well before quartering them.
Next, chop the fresh oregano and basil. Fresh herbs really make a difference in this dish, so don't skip them if you can help it!

Searing the Chicken:

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is nice and hot before adding the chicken.
Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Don't overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it's golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Sautéing the Vegetables:

Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet. Add the sliced red onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Add the chopped bell peppers and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp.
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and quartered artichoke hearts. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.

Bringing it All Together:

Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These browned bits are full of flavor!
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine with the vegetables and sauce.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the chopped fresh oregano and basil.
Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the Mediterranean chicken hot, either on its own or over cooked couscous or quinoa. The couscous or quinoa will soak up all the delicious sauce.
Garnish with extra fresh oregano and basil, if desired.
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can also brighten up the flavors.
This dish is also great served with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.

Tips and Variations:

Chicken Thighs: You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the chicken breasts. Chicken thighs are more flavorful and stay more moist during cooking.
Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms.
Spices: You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Wine: For a richer flavor, add 1/4 cup of dry white wine to the skillet along with the chicken broth.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add 1/2 cup of sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained) for an extra burst of flavor.
Make it a One-Pan Meal: Roast the chicken and vegetables together on a baking sheet for an even easier cleanup. Toss the chicken and vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried oregano and basil. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Then, stir in the olives, artichoke hearts, feta cheese, and fresh herbs.
Dairy-Free Option: Omit the feta cheese for a dairy-free version.
Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors actually improve as it sits!

Storing Leftovers:

Store any leftover Mediterranean chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Calories: Approximately 400-450 per serving
Protein: 40-45 grams
Fat: 25-30 grams
Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this Mediterranean Chicken recipe as much as I do! It's a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, salty olives, and creamy feta cheese is simply irresistible. Don't be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Mediterranean Chicken recipe isn't just another weeknight dinner; it's a vibrant, flavorful journey to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean, right in your own kitchen! The combination of juicy chicken, bright vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a symphony of tastes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. It's quick, it's easy, and it's packed with healthy ingredients, making it a guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy any day of the week. But what truly makes this recipe a must-try? It's the sheer versatility! You can easily adapt it to your own preferences and dietary needs. Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Want to make it even healthier? Swap out the chicken thighs for chicken breasts. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

I love serving this Mediterranean Chicken over a bed of fluffy couscous or quinoa to soak up all those delicious juices. A side of crusty bread is also perfect for mopping up every last bit of flavor. For a lighter meal, try serving it with a simple Greek salad or a side of roasted vegetables. Here are a few variations to get you started: * Mediterranean Chicken Bowls: Combine the chicken with cooked rice or quinoa, chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and a dollop of hummus for a complete and satisfying meal. * Mediterranean Chicken Salad: Shred the cooked chicken and toss it with mixed greens, crumbled feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette. * Mediterranean Chicken Wraps: Wrap the chicken in warm pita bread with hummus, tzatziki sauce, and your favorite Mediterranean toppings. * Mediterranean Chicken Skewers: Thread the chicken and vegetables onto skewers and grill them for a fun and flavorful summer meal. Don't be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own! Add your favorite vegetables, herbs, or spices to create a dish that perfectly suits your taste. I've even tried adding a splash of white wine to the pan while cooking the chicken, which adds a lovely depth of flavor.

Why You Should Try This Recipe:

Honestly, I believe everyone should have this recipe in their repertoire. It's a lifesaver on busy weeknights, and it's impressive enough to serve to guests. Plus, it's a fantastic way to incorporate more healthy vegetables and lean protein into your diet. The vibrant flavors and colors are sure to brighten up any meal, and the aroma alone will make your kitchen smell amazing. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking! I promise you won't be disappointed. This Mediterranean Chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and it's a recipe you'll find yourself making again and again. I'm so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what you served it with, and what your family thought. I love hearing from you and learning about your culinary adventures. Happy cooking! I can't wait to hear all about your delicious creations.