Chicken With Olives And Tomatoes
Juicy chicken cutlets simmered in a flavorful tomato and olive sauce with garlic, lemon, and herbs, perfect for a hearty Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix 4 tablespoons olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a shallow baking dish large enough to hold the cutlets in a single layer.
- Add the chicken cutlets to the dish and turn to coat them evenly with the marinade.
- In a large skillet, heat remaining olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add remaining garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
- Add chopped black olives, thyme, and parsley to the sauce.
- Place the marinated chicken cutlets into the skillet with the sauce.
- Simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors meld.
- Garnish with additional parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken cutlets for a few hours or overnight. If you don't have black olives, green olives can work as a substitute. Fresh herbs like oregano can also be used in place of thyme. Adjust the lemon juice to your taste, especially if you enjoy a more pronounced citrus flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes that feature grains or vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken with a side of fluffy rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A simple couscous or roasted vegetables would also complement the dish well. For an elegant touch, garnish with extra parsley and a lemon wedge. This dish can also be paired with the Chicken Breasts With Lemon And Capers for a delightful dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep the sauce from drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, covered, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken With Olives And Tomatoes contains roughly 412 calories, with 17g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (166% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (117% of the Daily Value), and potassium (75% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2011mg per serving (87% 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 skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken cutlets, but be aware that the cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly. The skin will add extra flavor and richness, so consider cooking it longer to ensure the skin becomes crispy.
What other vegetables can I add to the sauce?
You can customize the sauce by adding bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. Just sauté them along with the onions for a flavorful boost. These additions can enhance the nutritional value and create a more vibrant dish.
Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and add the chicken to warm through. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
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).