Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Mediterranean chicken recipe featuring juicy boneless chicken breasts seared and braised with garlic, lemon, white wine, olives, tomatoes, and fresh herbs. This one-skillet meal delivers a perfect balance of savory and bright Mediterranean flavors, ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic or garlic paste
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano, divided
Cooking Liquids and Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 large lemon, juiced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
- 4 small tomatoes, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1/4 cup sliced green olives
Garnish
- Handful of fresh parsley, stems removed, leaves chopped
- Crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove any moisture. Make three shallow slits on each side of each chicken breast to allow flavors to penetrate deeply during cooking.
- Season the chicken: Rub the minced garlic evenly on both sides of the chicken breasts, pressing some of the garlic into the slits. Season generously with kosher salt, black pepper, and half of the dried oregano on both sides.
- Sear the chicken: Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken breasts and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Pour in the white wine and cook until it reduces by half, intensifying the flavor.
- Braise the chicken: Add the fresh lemon juice and chicken broth to the skillet. Sprinkle the remaining half of the dried oregano on top of the chicken. Reduce the heat to medium and cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid or foil. Let the chicken braise for 5 to 6 minutes on one side. Flip the chicken breasts and cook for another 5 to 6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Finish the chicken and serve: Remove the lid and scatter the finely chopped red onion, diced tomatoes, and sliced green olives over the chicken. Cover again and cook for an additional 3 minutes to allow the vegetables to soften slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this vibrant Mediterranean dish!
Notes
- This Mediterranean chicken recipe requires minimal prep and cooks quickly in about 20 minutes, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
- Using a cast iron skillet is ideal for even searing and braising, but a heavy-bottomed pan or skillet will also work.
- White wine adds acidity and depth; if preferred, substitute with additional chicken broth and a splash of white wine vinegar.
- For a dairy-free option, omit the feta cheese garnish.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee it is safe and juicy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 414 kcal
- Sugar: 5.7 g
- Sodium: 514 mg
- Fat: 14.6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9.7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.03 g
- Carbohydrates: 14.4 g
- Fiber: 3.7 g
- Protein: 50.5 g
- Cholesterol: 145 mg
