– **Title**: Mediterranean Chicken Skillet
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1/2 cup pitted olives, sliced (such as Kalamata)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Lemon wedges (for serving)
– **Instructions**:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced red bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes until they are tender.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, olives, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the vegetable mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to for this dish because they cook evenly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a variation, you can use thighs for more flavor or turkey cutlets for a leaner option.
Olive Oil: This oil adds great flavor, but feel free to substitute with avocado oil or vegetable oil if needed. I sometimes mix in a bit of butter for richness!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These pack a lot of flavor! If you’re short on time, you can use fresh tomatoes, just chop them finely. For a little extra zing, try roasted red peppers instead.
Capers: They bring a salty tang to the dish. If you don’t have them, you might use green olives, but adjust the salt as needed since olives can be saltier.
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess to the sauce. If you want a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative. I’ve tried coconut cream here, and it gives a nice, subtle flavor!
How Do You Cook Juicy Chicken in a Skillet?
Cooking chicken perfectly in a skillet is key! Here’s how to keep it juicy and flavorful:
- Start with chicken at room temperature; this helps it cook evenly.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to boost flavor.
- Heat the oil until shimmering, then add the chicken. Avoid crowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than browning.
- Cook each side for 5-7 minutes without moving them around. This creates that lovely golden crust.
- Always let the chicken rest before slicing into it. This helps redistribute the juices!
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup artichoke hearts, drained (canned or frozen)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup capers, drained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Mediterranean Chicken Skillet takes about 30 minutes to prepare. It includes around 10 minutes for prepping the ingredients and cooking the chicken, followed by 20 minutes for combining everything together on the stove. A quick and delightful meal for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Make sure to coat them evenly so they are flavorful all around.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the sun-dried tomatoes, capers, and artichoke hearts. Sauté these ingredients for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and the flavors mix together nicely.
4. Combine Broth and Cream:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. After that, add the heavy cream and stir everything to combine well.
5. Return the Chicken:
Now it’s time to put the chicken back into the skillet! Place the chicken among the sauce and spoon some of the delicious sauce over the top. Then, sprinkle the shredded Mozzarella cheese over the chicken.
6. Let it Simmer:
Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for an additional 5-8 minutes. This will allow the cheese to melt and become bubbly. It’s going to smell amazing!
7. Finish and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright finish. Enjoy your Mediterranean Chicken Skillet!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work well in this recipe. They add extra flavor and stay moist during cooking. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few additional minutes to cook through compared to breasts.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or plain Greek yogurt for a creamy texture. If using Greek yogurt, add it at the end of cooking to prevent curdling. You can also use a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut cream for a different flavor profile!
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce during reheating.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze the Mediterranean chicken skillet! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop over low heat until heated through.
