Sicilian Chicken With Olives

Prep: 10 min Cook: 65 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Mediterranean

Sicilian Chicken With Olives features tender baked chicken infused with garlic, mint, and vinegar, complemented by briny green olives. Perfect for Mediterranean-flavored family dinners.

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Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
  • 1/2 cup vinegar (white or wine)
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons dried mint or 1/2 cup minced fresh mint
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup pitted green olives

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken pieces in a baking dish.
  2. Mix vinegar, water, dried or fresh mint, and minced garlic together and pour over the chicken.
  3. Ensure the liquid level is only 1/3 to 1/2 the depth of the chicken pieces.
  4. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 50 minutes.
  6. Add the pitted green olives to the pan and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
  7. Serve hot.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the vinegar mixture for a few hours before baking. Fresh mint provides a bright taste, but if you only have dried mint, use half the amount. You can substitute green olives with kalamata olives if you prefer a stronger flavor. Adjust the garlic to your liking; more can enhance the dish significantly. Pair with a light salad for a refreshing balance.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Sicilian Chicken With Olives hot, garnished with fresh mint for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes like Greek Style Orzo With Spinach And Tomatoes or a simple couscous. A side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad complements the dish well, rounding out a satisfying meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture, and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. This method helps retain the dish's flavors.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sicilian Chicken With Olives contains roughly 114 calories, with 2g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2033mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).

114 kcal 6% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.2g 4% DV
Total Fat 5g 6% DV
Carbs 14.6g 5% DV
Fiber 0.8g 3% DV
Sugar 11.6g 23% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2032.7mg 88% DV
Potassium 42.3mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 5.1mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 3.4mcg
Vitamin C 0.4mg
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 65.3mg 5% DV
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal

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 skinless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use skinless chicken pieces; however, keep in mind that the skin adds flavor and moisture during cooking. If using skinless, consider marinating longer to infuse flavor and keep the chicken moist.

What can I substitute for the vinegar?

If you don't have vinegar on hand, lemon juice can be a great substitute, providing acidity and brightness. You can also use apple cider vinegar for a milder flavor. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and marinate it up to a day in advance. Bake it just before serving for the best flavor and texture. Leftovers can be enjoyed the next day and also taste great in salads or wraps.

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).

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