Santa Clara Chicken
Santa Clara Chicken features tender chicken breasts baked in a flavorful mixture of garlic, olives, mushrooms, and herbs, offering a savory, Mediterranean-inspired dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Flour, salt, and pepper the chicken breasts.
- Brown both sides of the chicken breasts in olive oil.
- Place the chicken in a large baking dish.
- Mix remaining ingredients and pour over the chicken.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Uncover and continue to bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness before flouring, which helps them cook uniformly. If you don't have white wine or sherry, chicken broth can be a suitable substitute. Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor. This dish is reminiscent of Mediterranean recipes, making it a versatile choice for various occasions.
Serving Suggestions
This Santa Clara Chicken pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad. For a heartier meal, serve it over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. A crisp white wine complements the dish wonderfully, enhancing the flavors of the chicken and olives.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Santa Clara Chicken contains roughly 491 calories, with 25g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1330mg per serving (58% 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 different types of olives for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute black olives with green olives or Kalamata olives for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust the saltiness, as different olives have varying levels of salt.
Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, store them separately in the fridge, and assemble just before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even more delicious.
What can I serve as a side dish?
Consider pairing this dish with garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh Mediterranean salad with cucumber and feta cheese. These sides will complement the flavors of the chicken while keeping the meal balanced and satisfying.
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).