Ready to impress your taste buds? This Savory One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken Skillet is your new go-to dish! Packed with juicy chicken, vibrant veggies, and bold flavors, it’s simple yet delightful. Whether you seek a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleaser for dinner parties, this recipe has you covered. Let’s dive in and create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
For the chicken, I prefer thighs. They stay juicy and tender. Season them well with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. This blend brings a nice flavor to the dish. Use fresh herbs if you can. They make a big difference.
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
The vegetables add color and taste. Slice the red and yellow peppers thin. The onion adds sweetness, while garlic gives a strong kick. Using fresh tomatoes brightens the dish. Cook them until they soften but keep some crunch.
Additional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Kalamata olives bring a briny touch. Feta cheese adds creaminess and saltiness. Top the dish with fresh basil for a pop of flavor. This combination of ingredients makes the dish truly special.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet. Use medium-high heat for best results. Next, season 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Make sure the spices coat the chicken well. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs to the skillet. Cook them for 5-7 minutes on each side. Look for a golden-brown color and ensure they are fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers along with the sliced red onion. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until they become tender. The colors will brighten up your dish! Now, add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for an additional 30 seconds until it smells great. This step builds a solid flavor base for your dish.
Combining and Simmering the Ingredients
Stir in a can of drained diced tomatoes and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Heat these through for a couple of minutes. After that, return the cooked chicken thighs to the skillet. Nestle them into the vegetable mixture. Top everything with 1/2 cup of pitted Kalamata olives and 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese. Cover the skillet and let it all simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend well. When it’s ready, don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your savory one-pan Mediterranean chicken skillet!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfectly Cooked Chicken
To cook chicken thighs just right, start with even thickness. This helps them cook evenly. Use a meat mallet to flatten any thick spots. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Heat olive oil in your skillet until it shimmers. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color. Use a meat thermometer to check. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy and tender.
Enhancing the Dish with Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs can elevate your dish. After cooking, sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top. They add color and flavor. You can also use parsley or mint. These herbs bring brightness to your meal. If you want more flavor, mix herbs into the skillet while cooking. Fresh herbs release oils that enhance taste. Try to chop them finely for the best results. This small step makes a big difference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish right from the skillet for a cozy feel. Pair it with warm crusty bread to soak up juices. You can also serve it over rice or couscous. Both options add a nice texture. For a light side, try a simple green salad. A squeeze of lemon over the top brightens the flavors. If you have leftovers, enjoy them cold in a wrap. It makes for a quick lunch option.
Variations
Substitutions for Chicken Thighs
You can swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Breasts are leaner but still tasty. You can also use turkey thighs for a different flavor. Just remember, chicken breasts cook faster, so check them sooner.
Adding More Vegetables
Feel free to add more veggies. Zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms work well. You can even toss in eggplant for a unique twist. Just cut them small to cook evenly. This adds more color and nutrients to your dish.
Different Cheese Options
Cheese adds creaminess and flavor. If you don’t have feta, try goat cheese. Mozzarella or Parmesan are also great choices. Each cheese brings its own taste. Choose what you love!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken Skillet fresh, let it cool first. Place the chicken and veggies in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge. It will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. If you have extra sauce, you can pour it over the chicken. This helps keep the meat moist.
Reheating Instructions
When you are ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them gently. You can use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Cover it to heat evenly. You can also use the microwave. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. Ensure it’s piping hot before serving.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze the One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken Skillet for later. Make sure it cools completely. Place it in a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat it as mentioned above before enjoying!
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. It adds rich flavor and moisture. Just adjust cooking time. Bone-in chicken takes longer to cook than boneless. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures it is safe to eat.
What can I serve with One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken Skillet?
This dish pairs well with many sides. You can serve it with rice, couscous, or quinoa. A fresh green salad complements the flavors nicely. You might also try crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a Mediterranean touch, add tzatziki on the side.
How long does leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers can last up to four days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving. Ensure it is heated to a safe temperature. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the leftovers. They stay good for up to three months in the freezer.
In this article, we explored making a tasty One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken Skillet. We covered the key ingredients like chicken, veggies, and herbs. I shared step-by-step instructions for preparing and cooking. Tips helped you achieve the perfect chicken and enhance flavors. We discussed easy storage and delicious variations too.
Try this dish for a simple, healthy meal that everyone will love. Cooking can be fun and rewarding. Enjoy your time in the kitchen!
