This Mediterranean Chicken Skillet is a colorful mix of juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and tasty herbs. It’s like a sunshine feast right in your pan!
Cooking this dish is a breeze! I love how everything cooks together quickly, making dinner easy and fun. Plus, the bright flavors keep me coming back for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great here for quick cooking. If you’re looking for a substitute, boneless thighs are juicier, or try tofu for a vegetarian option!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives a rich flavor, but if you don’t have any, vegetable oil or butter will work too. Just remember, olive oil is key for that Mediterranean touch!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for its aroma. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, just remember that 1 clove equals about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Artichoke Hearts: Canned artichokes make it easy. Frozen or marinated artichoke hearts can work too. If you’re not a fan, try mushrooms for a different texture!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: I often use sun-dried tomatoes in oil for extra flavor. You can use fresh tomatoes for a lighter taste or even roasted peppers for a bright look.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream like coconut milk. This won’t be as rich, but still delicious!
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked in One Pan?
Cooking chicken just right is crucial for this dish. It’s all about timing and the right heat. Follow these steps for juicy, well-cooked chicken:
- Start with a hot skillet. Preheat it with olive oil so the chicken sizzles when it hits the pan.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper right before cooking. This adds flavor directly to the meat!
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side. You want a nice golden crust and an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this keeps the juices inside!
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Skillet?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables and Additions:
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and halved
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), chopped
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup capers, drained
Broth and Seasoning:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Mediterranean Chicken Skillet will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend most of your time getting the chicken nicely browned and making the flavorful sauce. It’s a quick but satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This will add flavor to your chicken right from the start.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring often until the onion becomes soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant. Your kitchen should smell amazing by now!
4. Add the Good Stuff:
Add the drained artichoke hearts, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, halved kalamata olives, and drained capers to the skillet. Stir everything together well and cook for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the dried oregano and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
6. Add Cream and Chicken:
Now, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Next, return the browned chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the flavorful sauce over it. This will keep your chicken moist and tasty.
7. Final Simmer:
Let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes. This will help the sauce thicken slightly and ensure the chicken is heated through.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your dish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve it with lemon wedges on the side for a delightful zing that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the dish. Enjoy your Mediterranean Chicken Skillet!
## FAQ for Mediterranean Chicken Skillet
Can I Use Another Type of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked, as thighs may need an extra few minutes compared to breasts. Bone-in chicken can also be used, but be sure to increase the cooking time significantly and check the internal temperature for doneness.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option, or use half-and-half for a lighter version. If you want a lower-fat alternative, evaporated milk can work as well, just remember the sauce might be less rich.
Can I Use Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried?
Yes, fresh herbs can enhance the flavor! To substitute, use three times the amount of fresh herbs as you would dried since they are less concentrated. For this recipe, use 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano and 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme instead of the dried versions.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months; just make sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating!
