Mediterranean Chicken With Olives

Name: Mediterranean Chicken With Olives
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 2 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Culinary Journey

I absolutely love making Mediterranean Chicken with Olives for both its vibrant flavors and ease of preparation. The combination of olive oil, fresh herbs, and zesty lemon creates a dish that is rich in taste yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Each bite bursts with the essence of the Mediterranean, transporting me to sun-soaked shores. Paired with a side of roasted vegetables or rice, it not only satisfies my palate but also impresses my guests. This is one dish I find myself returning to time and time again.

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-15T05:25:35.650Z

When I first discovered the joy of Mediterranean cuisine, this chicken recipe quickly became a staple in my kitchen. It’s not only about the delicious flavors but also how effortlessly I can put it together on busy evenings. The balance of salty olives with juicy, tender chicken is simply delightful.

One critical detail I learned over time is the importance of marinating the chicken even for a short period, which enhances the overall flavor profoundly. By using both fresh ingredients and quality olive oil, I ensure each dish brings that authentic taste right to my table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Vibrant Mediterranean flavors that uplift any meal
Easy one-pan preparation for minimal cleanup
Versatile enough to pair with various sides

Understanding the Marinade

The marinade plays a crucial role in building flavor for the Mediterranean Chicken. The combination of lemon juice and zest not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a bright, zesty flavor that complements the olives beautifully. I recommend allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes, but if you have more time, letting it sit for an hour or even overnight in the refrigerator significantly enhances the taste. This step is essential for achieving a juicy and flavorful result.

Garlic and oregano are key players in the marinade. Good-quality extra virgin olive oil will help the chicken achieve a lovely golden crust while providing healthy fats. If you want to boost the herbal notes, consider adding a few sprigs of fresh oregano or thyme to the marinade. Just remember that fresh herbs are more potent than dried variants; a little goes a long way.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken

Getting the chicken perfectly cooked is vital to this dish. Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding the marinated chicken breasts to ensure they sear well, which enhances the flavor and texture. You’re looking for a golden brown crust on each side, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes. To check for doneness, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a meat thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the chicken; the juices should run clear rather than pink.

If you find that the chicken is cooking too quickly and starting to burn, don't hesitate to lower the heat slightly. Alternatively, if it's taking too long to brown, increasing the heat a bit can help. Just be cautious of cooking at too high a temperature, as this can lead to an overcooked center while the outer layer darkens.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While the Mediterranean Chicken with Olives is delicious on its own, serving it with roasted vegetables or a side of fluffy rice can elevate your meal. Consider pairing it with a light Greek salad for a refreshing contrast or some couscous to soak up all the flavorful juices. If you want to add more vegetables, bell peppers or zucchini can be sautéed alongside the chicken for a one-pan meal.

For a twist, you can add capers along with the olives to introduce a briny flavor that enhances the overall dish. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, substituting rice with cauliflower rice is an excellent choice while still keeping the meal satisfying. Feel free to sprinkle feta cheese on top before serving to add a creamy texture and tangy flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
2 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and zest, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat well. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the marinated chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

Add Olives and Finish

In the last few minutes of cooking, add the Kalamata olives to the pan. Stir gently to combine, allowing the olives to warm through.

Garnish and Serve

Remove the pan from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving for enhanced flavor absorption.

Pro Tips

For added depth, consider adding a splash of white wine during cooking. Adjust seasoning as per your taste, and don't hesitate to mix in other Mediterranean ingredients like artichokes or sun-dried tomatoes.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you have leftovers, store the Mediterranean Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating it gently in a skillet over medium heat will help preserve its texture, as microwaving can make the chicken rubbery. To refresh the dish, add a splash of water or chicken broth when reheating to help maintain moisture.

For meal prep enthusiasts, you can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook it. This not only saves time during the week but also allows the flavors to deepen further. When cooking for a larger group, simply double the ingredients and use a larger skillet or divide the chicken into two pans to ensure even cooking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chicken turns out dry, next time consider cutting the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This approach will help them cook through faster while retaining more moisture. Alternatively, avoid overcooking by checking the temperature early and adjusting cooking times based on the thickness of the chicken.

Sometimes olive oil can smoke if overheated, resulting in a burnt flavor. To avoid this, start with a lower heat and allow the pan to warm up gradually before adding the chicken. If this happens, it's best to start fresh with a new batch of oil to prevent any unfavorable tastes from developing in the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Should you not have Kalamata olives, any pitted olives like green or black olives can work as a substitute without compromising the dish's essence. Each type adds its own unique flavor profile, so don't hesitate to experiment based on what you have available.

If you're avoiding garlic for dietary reasons, consider using garlic powder instead. While it won’t provide the same punchy flavor, it will still add a mild garlicky taste to the marinade. Additionally, fresh herbs can often be replaced with dried herbs; use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh to maintain balance in flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken cooks through properly.

→ What can I serve with Mediterranean Chicken?

It's delicious with rice, couscous, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and cook it when you’re ready.

→ What type of olives should I use?

Kalamata olives are traditional, but feel free to use any variety you prefer.