Chicken with lemon and olives is a delicious and flavorful dish that brings together the tanginess of lemon and the briny taste of olives.

This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is easy to make and is perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. Not only does it taste great, but it also provides a healthy dose of essential nutrients. In this article, we will explore the ingredients and steps to prepare this mouthwatering chicken dish.

Ingredients

Before we delve into the cooking process, let’s take a look at the ingredients required to make chicken with lemon and olives:.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 lemons
1 cup pitted green olives
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the preparation:.

1. Marinating the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken breasts. In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, juice of one lemon, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.

Place the chicken breasts in a ziplock bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure the chicken is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Marinating the chicken not only infuses it with flavor but also helps in tenderizing it.

2. Searing the Chicken

After the marinating time is up, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. In the meantime, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.

Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until nicely browned. This will create a delicious crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

3. Adding Lemon and Olives

Once the chicken is seared, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the pitted green olives and sauté them for a minute until they start to release their flavors.

Cut the remaining lemon into thin slices and add them to the skillet. Cook for another minute to soften the lemon slices.

4. Combining the Flavors

Now it’s time to bring all the flavors together. Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet along with any accumulated juices on the plate. Gently toss the chicken, olives, and lemon slices to combine them.

Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the chicken cook for another 5-7 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked and retains its moisture.

5. Serving

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the chicken breasts to a serving platter, arranging the lemon slices and olives around them. Spoon the pan juices over the chicken for extra flavor.

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Chicken with lemon and olives pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, couscous, or a fresh green salad.

A Healthy and Flavorful Dish

Not only is chicken with lemon and olives a tasty dish, but it is also packed with health benefits. Lemons are a rich source of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and aids in collagen production.

Olives contain heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and are a good source of antioxidants. Chicken is a lean source of protein and provides essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair. Combining these ingredients creates a well-balanced meal that is both satisfying and nourishing.

Variations and Tips

There are several ways to customize and enhance the chicken with lemon and olives recipe:.

1. Lemon-Garlic Sauce

If you prefer a saucier dish, you can make a simple lemon-garlic sauce to drizzle over the chicken. In a small saucepan, melt a tablespoon of butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.

Then, squeeze the juice of one lemon and cook for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Pour this sauce over the cooked chicken just before serving.

2. Herbaceous Twist

For herb lovers, consider adding a handful of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to the skillet along with the olives and lemon slices. The herbs will add a fragrant aroma and take the flavors to a whole new level.

3. Mediterranean Medley

If you want to elevate the dish further, you can incorporate other Mediterranean ingredients such as sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or capers. These additions will contribute extra layers of flavors and textures.

Conclusion

Chicken with lemon and olives is a delightful dish that combines the zesty taste of lemon with the savory flavor of olives. It is a simple yet elegant recipe that can be prepared with just a handful of ingredients.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or cooking a weeknight meal, this Mediterranean-inspired dish is sure to impress. The tender and juicy chicken, along with the tangy and briny elements, creates a harmony of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Try this recipe and enjoy a healthy and delicious chicken dish that will please both your palate and your guests!.