Chicken With Lemon And Olives
A flavorful Mediterranean-inspired chicken dish with lemon, olives, and garlic, perfect for a savory, tangy meal that pairs well with rice or vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Brown chicken breasts on both sides; remove from pan.
- Add chopped garlic and green onion whites; sauté briefly.
- Add water to the pan and stir.
- Return chicken to the pan; season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook over low heat for 20 to 25 minutes until chicken is no longer pink.
- Remove chicken from the pan.
- Boil pan juices for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in lemon juice and olives; then pour the mixture over the chicken.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic for an hour before cooking. If you prefer a milder taste, use green olives instead of black. You can also substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier result. Adding herbs like oregano or thyme can elevate the dish further. Serve with Rice Or Barley Pilaf for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes like Pasta Caponata or a simple couscous. Drizzle any extra sauce over the chicken when serving to enhance the presentation and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Cover and heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, use a microwave, covering the dish to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken With Lemon And Olives contains roughly 825 calories, with 26g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 877mg per serving (38% 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 bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, bone-in chicken can be used, but cooking time may need to be adjusted. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. The bones can add additional flavor to the dish.
What can I use if I don't have olives?
If olives are not available, consider using capers for a similar briny flavor, or omit them entirely and add a splash of extra lemon juice for brightness. Adjust seasonings accordingly to maintain balance.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers when sautéing the garlic and green onions. You can also serve the dish with a side of spicy sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick.
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).