Description
Mediterranean chicken blends aromatic herbs with tender, juicy meat for a delightful culinary journey. Herbs from Greece and olive oil create a simple, elegant dish perfect for home cooks seeking authentic Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 chicken breasts (or thighs), boneless and skinless
- 2 tbsps olive oil
- 2 tbsps lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 2 tbsps parsley, fresh and chopped
Instructions
- Marinade Preparation: Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, citrus zest, minced garlic, and Mediterranean spices in a mixing bowl to create a vibrant, aromatic base that will infuse the chicken with rich flavors.
- Chicken Marination: Thoroughly coat chicken pieces, ensuring complete coverage. Allow flavors to penetrate by refrigerating for 15 minutes to overnight, intensifying the taste profile.
- Skillet Cooking: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully transfer marinated chicken, cooking methodically to achieve a golden-brown exterior. Rotate pieces to ensure even cooking and reach the perfect internal temperature.
- Resting and Garnishing: Remove chicken from heat, letting it rest briefly to preserve juices. Artfully plate the chicken, then generously top with crumbled feta cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and freshly chopped parsley.
- Serving: Present the dish alongside complementary sides like couscous, rice, or warm pita bread, creating a complete Mediterranean-inspired culinary experience that tantalizes the senses.
Notes
- Optimize Marination Time: Let chicken soak in marinade for at least 30 minutes or overnight to maximize flavor absorption and tenderness.
- Achieve Perfect Sear: Use a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan to create a golden-brown crust that locks in juices and develops rich caramelization.
- Control Chicken Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally, preventing dryness while guaranteeing food safety.
- Customize for Dietary Needs: Swap feta with dairy-free alternative for lactose-intolerant diets, or use plant-based protein for vegetarian version by substituting chicken with firm tofu or grilled vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg