Mediterranean Chicken with Lemons and Olives

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There’s something magical about Mediterranean flavors—the bright tang of lemons, the briny richness of olives, and the aromatic warmth of herbs. This Mediterranean Chicken with Lemons and Olives is a one-pan wonder that brings all these elements together in a deliciously saucy, comforting meal.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is savory, zesty, and deeply flavorful. Plus, it’s easy to make with just a handful of ingredients! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this dish will quickly become a favorite.

📌 Love easy and flavorful Mediterranean recipes? Save this recipe to Pinterest! → Pinterest – Recipes by Sylvia

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Chicken Recipe

• One-Pan Convenience: Less cleanup, more flavor!

• Packed with Bold Flavors: A perfect balance of citrusy, salty, and savory.

• Healthy and Wholesome: Full of lean protein, heart-healthy olives, and fresh ingredients.

• Great for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day!

Let’s dive into this simple yet impressive recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 tablespoon garlic paste (or minced garlic)

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste

• 6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs

For the Skillet Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 small lemon, thinly sliced

• ¼ cup white wine (use your favorite)

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup marinated olives

Essential Cooking Tools

• Large frying pan or skillet – for searing and simmering

• Mixing bowls – to marinate the chicken

• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise seasoning

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken with Lemons and Olives

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix the garlic paste, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and rub the seasoning mixture all over them. Let the chicken rest while you prep the other ingredients (or marinate in the fridge for up to 24 hours).

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Season with a pinch of salt and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring often, until soft and fragrant.

4. Build the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. Add the lemon slices and pour in the white wine. Scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze and let the wine cook down for 3 minutes.

5. Simmer the Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth and return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.

6. Add the Olives

Stir in the marinated olives and let everything simmer for another 10 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is cooked through.

7. Let it Rest & Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and let it rest for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Spoon the olives and sauce over the chicken and serve hot.

What to Serve with Mediterranean Chicken

This dish pairs beautifully with:

• Fluffy Couscous – Soaks up all that delicious sauce!

• Garlic Roasted Potatoes – A hearty side for extra satisfaction.

• Warm Pita Bread – Perfect for scooping up those juicy bits.

• Greek Salad – A fresh, crisp contrast to the rich flavors.

Tips for Perfect Mediterranean Chicken

• Use bone-in thighs for extra flavor – Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

• No white wine? Substitute with extra chicken broth and a squeeze of lemon juice.

• Make it spicy – Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.

• Customize the olives – Use green, black, or mixed olives based on preference.

Storing and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Cool completely and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute chicken breasts for thighs?

Yes! Chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs, but they may turn out slightly drier. Reduce the cooking time to keep them tender.

What type of olives work best in this recipe?

Marinated olives add the most depth of flavor, but plain green or Kalamata olives are great alternatives. Choose your favorite!

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! This dish develops even richer flavors when made ahead and reheated the next day.

Is there a substitute for white wine?

Yes! If you prefer not to use wine, simply replace it with extra chicken broth and a squeeze of lemon juice for acidity.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Definitely! Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring a little heat to the dish.

What should I serve with Mediterranean chicken?

This dish pairs well with couscous, rice, roasted potatoes, or warm pita bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave.

Can I freeze Mediterranean chicken?

Yes! Cool completely, then store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?

Yes, but they will need a longer cooking time. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Avoid overcooking and let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.

More Mediterranean Chicken Recipes You’ll Love

If you love this recipe, don’t miss these other Mediterranean-inspired chicken dishes:

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives – A tangy and briny dish with tender chicken and artichokes.

Mediterranean-Style Chicken Piccata – A lemony, caper-filled classic with a Mediterranean twist.

Easy Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo – A simple one-pot meal packed with flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Chicken with Lemons and Olives is the perfect dish when you want something flavorful, easy, and impressive. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, it’s a meal that delivers every time.

Tried this recipe? Save it to Pinterest and share your creation! → Pinterest – Recipes by Sylvia

Let me know how it turned out in the comments below! I’d love to hear from you. Enjoy every bite!

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