How to make delicious kalamata olives chicken

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s as delicious as it is versatile, then this Kalamata olives chicken recipe is just what you need. Imagine tender chicken cooked to perfection, complemented by the bold, savory flavor of Kalamata olives and Mediterranean-inspired herbs. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, this recipe brings together easy-to-find ingredients and vibrant flavors. It’s the kind of dish that transforms a simple meal into something special, with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking and bring a little Mediterranean magic to your table!

Ingredients and Popular Alternatives

To get started, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create a delicious, Mediterranean-inspired chicken dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (you can substitute with thighs if you prefer a juicier cut)
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano (or fresh if you have it!)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine for a richer flavor)
Juice of 1 lemon (adds a nice zesty kick)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Common Substitutions:

Chicken Thighs: If you want a richer flavor and more tender meat, chicken thighs are a great alternative to breasts. They’ll also hold up better if you’re cooking the dish for a longer period.
Kalamata Olives: Not a fan of Kalamata olives? You can easily swap them for other briny olives like green olives or black olives. The key is to maintain that savory, tangy punch.
Chicken Broth: You can use vegetable broth or even a splash of white wine for added complexity. If you prefer a creamier sauce, swap the broth for a bit of heavy cream.
Herbs: Fresh herbs are always a bonus, so feel free to use fresh oregano or thyme if available. Don’t have either? A pinch of Italian seasoning will also do the trick.
Lemon Juice: In a pinch, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can replace the lemon juice, though the citrusy zing won’t be quite the same.

Tips:

Searing the Chicken: To achieve that golden, crispy exterior, make sure your pan is hot before adding the chicken. Searing it for a few minutes on each side locks in all the juices, giving the chicken a tender, flavorful finish.
Olive Prep: Kalamata olives can be a bit tough to pit by hand, so if you don’t have a pitter, just press down on the olives with the flat side of a knife to easily remove the pits.

With these ingredients and substitutions in mind, you’re all set to dive into the next step of creating a savory, mouthwatering Kalamata olives chicken that’s full of Mediterranean flavor!

How To Make Kalamata Olives Chicken

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring everything together and create a dish that’s both flavorful and easy to make. Don’t worry if this seems like a lot of steps—each one is simple, and I’ll guide you through it! Let’s get started.

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Perfectly Seared Chicken Breasts in a Skillet

Heat your pan: Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, it’s ready.
Sear the chicken breasts: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Place them in the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. This will give the chicken a nice crust while keeping the inside juicy.
Remove and rest: Once your chicken is beautifully browned, transfer it to a plate and set it aside to rest. Don’t worry—it’ll finish cooking in the next step!

Step 2: Build the Savory Sauce

Creating the Flavorful Olive Sauce for Chicken

Sauté the garlic: In the same pan, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until it’s fragrant. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, as garlic can turn bitter if overcooked.
Add the olives and herbs: Stir in the chopped Kalamata olives, followed by the oregano and thyme. Let these ingredients mingle in the pan for a minute or two to release their flavors.
Deglaze with chicken broth: Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth (or white wine if you’re going for a richer taste). Scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to release all those delicious brown bits—this adds extra flavor to your sauce!
Add lemon juice: Squeeze the juice of one lemon into the pan, stirring to combine. This will give your sauce that perfect zesty kick that complements the savory olives.

Step 3: Bring It All Together

Combining Seared Chicken with Savory Olive Sauce

Return the chicken to the pan: Place the seared chicken breasts back into the pan, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Taste and adjust: Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or even a little more lemon juice if you like things tangier.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Once the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is rich and flavorful, it’s time to plate up! Transfer the chicken to a serving dish, spooning the savory Kalamata olive sauce over the top. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness.

There you have it—Kalamata olives chicken that’s juicy, tangy, and absolutely mouthwatering! It’s the perfect combination of tender chicken, briny olives, and Mediterranean herbs, all tied together in a quick and easy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Kalamata olives chicken is cooked to perfection, it’s time to think about how to serve it! The great thing about this dish is its versatility—it pairs beautifully with so many different sides, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some suggestions to make your meal even better:

1. Mediterranean Salad

A fresh, crunchy Mediterranean salad is a fantastic side. Think crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, red onions, and a sprinkle of feta cheese, all tossed with a light olive oil and lemon dressing. The bright flavors of the salad balance the savory chicken, creating a refreshing contrast.

2. Roasted Vegetables

If you’re looking for something hearty, roasted vegetables are the way to go. Try roasting a medley of bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. The caramelized veggies will complement the briny, tangy olives in the chicken and add a nice depth to your meal.

3. Couscous or Rice

For a more filling option, serve your chicken alongside couscous or rice. Both grains are perfect for soaking up the rich, flavorful sauce. A quick lemony couscous or a bed of fluffy rice can elevate this dish to a complete meal. If you want to keep it low-carb, cauliflower rice is a great alternative.

Perfectly Cooked Couscous Accompanying Kalamata Olives Chicken

4. Pasta

If you’re craving something more substantial, a bowl of al dente pasta makes an excellent pairing. Choose a shape that can catch the sauce, like penne or spaghetti, and toss it in some of the extra Kalamata olive sauce for extra flavor. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan on top for a cheesy finish.

5. Garlic Bread or Crusty Baguette

For a truly indulgent meal, serve your Kalamata olives chicken with some garlic bread or a crusty baguette. The bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce, making every bite as delicious as the last.

Garnish & Finishing Touches:

A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a burst of color but also enhances the dish’s freshness.
A squeeze of lemon just before serving can give the chicken an extra zesty punch.

With these serving options, your Kalamata olives chicken will shine no matter what you pair it with! Each side enhances the dish in a unique way, whether you’re looking for something light, filling, or extra comforting. The possibilities are endless, and no matter what you choose, your meal will be delicious and memorable.

Variations

While the Kalamata olives chicken recipe is already bursting with flavor, there’s always room to get creative! Whether you’re adjusting to dietary preferences or simply want to switch things up, here are some tasty variations that’ll keep this dish exciting every time you make it.

1. Spicy Kalamata Olives Chicken

If you enjoy a little heat, adding a dash of red pepper flakes to the pan while sautéing the garlic will spice things up. You can also toss in some chili peppers or a small spoonful of harissa paste for an extra kick of Mediterranean-inspired spice. This variation pairs wonderfully with a cooling yogurt-based sauce on the side.

2. Add Veggies for Extra Flavor

To make the dish even more vibrant, you can add more vegetables to the skillet as the chicken simmers. Try adding slices of zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even spinach toward the end of the cooking process. The veggies will soak up the sauce and add more texture and nutrition, creating a one-pan meal that’s hearty and healthy.

3. Chicken with Feta Cheese

For a creamy twist, crumble feta cheese over the top of the chicken right before serving. The briny cheese melts slightly into the warm sauce, adding a rich, creamy texture that complements the tangy Kalamata olives. If you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors, this is a simple way to elevate the dish.

4. Low-Carb Version with Cauliflower Rice

If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, simply swap the regular rice for cauliflower rice. It’s a great way to keep the dish light without sacrificing flavor. You can even roast the cauliflower rice in the oven with a bit of olive oil and herbs to enhance its flavor before serving it alongside the chicken.

5. Vegan Version

To make a vegan-friendly version of this dish, swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then slice and sear it in the same manner as the chicken. Once cooked, follow the same sauce instructions to create a delicious vegan Kalamata olives dish that still feels indulgent and flavorful.

6. Lemon Herb Variation

For an even zestier flavor, add extra lemon zest along with the lemon juice. You can also stir in some fresh herbs like basil or mint at the end to bring a refreshing, aromatic lift to the dish. This variation adds an extra layer of brightness and pairs beautifully with light Mediterranean salads.

With these easy variations, you can customize your Kalamata olives chicken to match your personal taste, dietary needs, or even the ingredients you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to experiment and have fun with the recipe—the Mediterranean flavors offer endless possibilities for making it your own!

Storage & Reheating

After enjoying a delicious meal of Kalamata olives chicken, you might be wondering how to store the leftovers or even how to reheat them without losing that juicy, tender flavor. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with some simple tips to ensure your dish stays as delicious as the first time you made it!

Storing Leftovers:

Cool the dish first: Before storing, let the chicken and sauce cool down to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation inside your storage container, keeping your chicken tender and the sauce flavorful.
Airtight container: Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container. This will keep everything fresh and prevent odors from other foods in the fridge from seeping in. You can store the chicken with the sauce or separately for better texture when reheating.
Refrigeration: Leftovers will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge. Just make sure to store them properly to preserve their flavor and texture.

Freezing for Later:

If you’ve made a big batch and want to save some for later, you can freeze Kalamata olives chicken for up to 3 months.
Freeze the chicken and sauce together: For best results, store the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Tips:

Oven Method: The best way to reheat Kalamata olives chicken is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, and cover it loosely with foil. Reheat for about 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is heated through. The foil helps retain moisture, so the chicken doesn’t dry out.
Stovetop Method: If you’re short on time, you can reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add a little chicken broth or water to the pan to create steam and prevent the chicken from drying out. Cover the pan and heat for about 5-10 minutes, checking the temperature regularly.
Microwave Method: For the quickest reheat, the microwave works, though it may affect the texture of the chicken a little. Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it’s heated evenly.

Tips for Maintaining Flavor:

To keep the Kalamata olive sauce vibrant, stir it gently when reheating to reincorporate the flavors. The olives and herbs will release their oils, adding depth back into the sauce.
If the sauce thickens too much after storage, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating to bring it back to the perfect consistency.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Kalamata olives chicken even after the initial meal. Whether you’re enjoying leftovers the next day or preparing it for meal prep, this dish stays flavorful and satisfying every time!

Conclusion

Now that you’ve learned how to make this mouthwatering Kalamata olives chicken, I hope you’re feeling inspired to try it out yourself! This dish is an incredible way to bring a little Mediterranean magic to your dinner table, with its bold olive flavors, herb-infused chicken, and savory sauce. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or as the centerpiece of a special meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

Not only is it simple to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can adjust it based on what you have in your kitchen, make it spicier, or add extra vegetables for more nutrition. The Kalamata olives bring such a unique tangy richness to the dish, and the chicken stays tender and juicy thanks to the savory sauce. Pair it with a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or your favorite grain, and you’ve got a meal that checks all the boxes: easy, flavorful, and satisfying.

So next time you’re craving something comforting but full of flavor, this Kalamata olives chicken will be your go-to. Remember to have fun with it—cook it your way, and let the flavors transport you to the Mediterranean coast with every bite! Enjoy, and don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family—you’ll be sure to earn some compliments. Happy cooking!

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Kalamata Olives Chicken

Chef Clara

Discover how to make delicious Kalamata olives chicken with a tangy, savory sauce—perfect for a flavorful and easy Mediterranean-inspired meal!

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Main dish

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4 Servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts
1 cup Kalamata olives pitted and sliced
3 cloves garlic minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish optional