Mediterranean Chicken with Tomatoes, Olives, and Feta Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor but quick enough for a weeknight, you’re going to love this Mediterranean Chicken with Tomatoes, Olives, and Feta Recipe. It’s one of those meals I keep coming back to because it’s simple, hearty, and full of those classic Mediterranean tastes we all crave. Trust me, once you try it, it might just become your new go-to for an easy yet impressive dinner.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this Mediterranean Chicken with Tomatoes, Olives, and Feta Recipe come together to create a dish that’s rich in flavor yet straightforward to prepare. When shopping, look for fresh, ripe tomatoes and quality feta for the best results—you’ll notice the difference.

• Boneless chicken breasts: Always pat them dry for a perfect sear and juicy texture.
• Garlic or garlic paste: Fresh garlic gives that punchy aroma, but garlic paste is a great shortcut.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.
• Black pepper: Freshly ground if possible for the best spice kick.
• Dried oregano: A classic herb in Mediterranean cooking that lends earthiness.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Use a good quality one to enrich the dish with fruity nuances.
• Dry white wine: Adds acidity and depth—if you prefer, substitute with extra chicken broth.
• Lemon juice: Fresh is key here to brighten and balance the richness.
• Chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist while braising and adds savory flavor.
• Red onion: Finely chopped for sweetness and texture.
• Small tomatoes: Choose ripe but firm ones to hold their shape when cooked.
• Sliced green olives: They bring that characteristic salty, briny note—perfect contrast.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal finish; remove stems for a tender bite.
• Feta cheese (optional): Crumbled atop for creaminess and an extra layer of Mediterranean flavor.

Variations

I love encouraging a little kitchen creativity, and this Mediterranean Chicken with Tomatoes, Olives, and Feta Recipe invites it. Whether you prefer it lighter or loaded with veggies, there’s room to make it your own.

• Add vegetables: I’ve thrown in some zucchini or bell peppers before, which make the meal even more colorful and nutritious.
• Try different olives: Kalamata olives add a richer, darker flavor if you want to switch it up.
• Make it dairy-free: Simply skip the feta or use a plant-based cheese substitute, and it’s just as tasty.
• Spice it up: A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can give a mild heat that complements the medley of flavors nicely.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken with Tomatoes, Olives, and Feta Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

First things first, pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels—that step is key to getting a nice sear instead of steaming them. Then, make three shallow slits on each side; this helps the garlic and seasoning really soak in, making every bite flavorful. Rub the minced garlic all over the chicken, pushing some into those slits, and season generously with salt, pepper, and half the dried oregano. This simple prep packs a ton of punch.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken and Add Wine

Heat your olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. This might be when you hear a satisfying sizzle—don’t overcrowd the pan or the chicken won’t brown properly. Sear the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden. Then pour in the dry white wine and let it reduce by half; this step adds subtle acidity and depth. If you don’t use wine, extra chicken broth will work just fine.

Step 3: Braise the Chicken with Broth, Lemon & Oregano

Next, add the fresh lemon juice and chicken broth to the skillet, sprinkling the rest of your oregano on top. Turn your heat to medium and cover the pan with a lid or tightly sealed foil. Let the chicken cook gently for 5-6 minutes on one side, then flip and do the same on the other side. This gentle braise keeps the chicken remarkably juicy. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.

Step 4: Add the Veggies and Finish with Freshness

Uncover the skillet and scatter the chopped red onions, diced tomatoes, and sliced green olives over the chicken. Cover again and cook just 3 more minutes to marry those flavors without turning the veggies to mush. Before serving, sprinkle generously with chopped fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese if you’re using it. The contrast of creamy feta and the bright herbs brings the whole dish to life.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken with Tomatoes, Olives, and Feta Recipe

Garnishes

I almost always finish this dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and crumbled feta—it adds that bright herbal and creamy salty kick that makes the flavors pop. Sometimes I toss in a few lemon zest shavings for an extra fresh aroma that wakes up the palate.

Side Dishes

This Mediterranean chicken pairs beautifully with something simple like garlic roasted potatoes, fluffy couscous, or even a crisp Greek salad. I’ve also served it alongside buttery rice pilaf for family dinners, and it’s always a hit.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special dinner, I like plating the chicken over a bed of herbed quinoa with the tomatoes and olives spooned artistically on top. Adding a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and some edible flowers can really impress guests and make the meal feel festive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and find that the flavors actually deepen after a day. Just be sure to separate any fresh herbs or feta if you want to keep them bright and fresh for later.

Freezing

While I personally prefer it fresh, this dish freezes pretty well without the fresh parsley and feta. Freeze in portions for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To keep the chicken juicy, I reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F until warmed through. Microwave works in a pinch, but watch the time so it doesn’t dry out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Chicken with Tomatoes, Olives, and Feta Recipe is one of those dishes that’s comfort food but with a fresh, vibrant twist. I remember the first time I made it—it was such a crowd-pleaser, and the leftover flavors the next day tasted even better! If you’re craving something easy yet flavorful that feels a little fancy without any fuss, you’ve got to try this. I can’t wait for you to enjoy it as much as my family and I do.

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