Chicken Spitzata
Juicy chicken breasts simmered in a savory blend of olives, mushrooms, garlic, and wine, creating a hearty dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown chicken breasts with chopped onions and garlic.
- Add sliced green olives, black olives, sliced mushrooms, oregano or Italian seasoning, red wine, and water.
- Simmer uncovered for 1 hour, then cook until the wine reduces and thickens the sauce.
- Serve with noodles or rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more robust flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking. If you don’t have red wine, a splash of chicken broth or balsamic vinegar can work as a substitute. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the dish for added nutrition. This recipe is similar to Mediterranean recipes that highlight olives and herbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Spitzata over a bed of noodles or rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This dish is also great alongside crusty bread, perfect for dipping into the sauce, similar to how you might enjoy it with Chicken With Olives.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. You can also microwave it, covered, in short intervals until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Spitzata contains roughly 535 calories, with 32g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (212% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (156% of the Daily Value), and calcium (125% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 889mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for a richer flavor and more tender texture. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for the olives if I don’t like them?
If olives aren't your preference, you can omit them entirely or substitute with chopped artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that this will change the overall taste of the dish.
Is there a way to make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! You can add crushed red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers when cooking the onions and garlic for a kick of heat. This will elevate the dish and give it a delicious spicy flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).