Name: Tomato and Olive Chicken Sauté
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata or black olives, halved; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

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Tomato and Olive Chicken Sauté is a flavorful, Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked with juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and aromatic herbs. This one-pan dish is quick to prepare and bursting with vibrant, fresh flavors. The combination of savory olives, sweet tomatoes, and garlic creates a delicious sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken, making it an ideal choice for a light yet satisfying dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tomato and Olive Chicken Sauté is a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. The olives and tomatoes come together to create a rich, flavorful sauce that elevates the chicken. This dish is not only quick and easy but also versatile, as it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as pasta, rice, couscous, or a simple green salad. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a healthy, Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Tomato and Olive Chicken Sauté

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
Salt and pepper (for seasoning)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
1/2 cup Kalamata olives (pitted and sliced)
1/4 cup dry chicken broth
1 tablespoon fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped, for garnish)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a zesty finish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the cherry tomatoes and olives, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the oregano and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
Combine: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some of the sauce over them, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired. Serve immediately with your choice of side.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 2 servings and takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a light weekend dinner.

Variations

Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the pan for added nutrition and color.
Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those following a gluten-free diet.
Use Different Olives: While Kalamata olives are traditional, you can substitute them with green olives or a mix of different varieties for a unique flavor.
Chicken Thighs: Swap out chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer, juicier result.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Tomato and Olive Chicken Sauté in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave it, but the texture may be slightly less crisp.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or breasts, but the cooking time will be longer. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh tomatoes are not available. Choose a high-quality canned tomato, such as whole peeled tomatoes or crushed tomatoes, and drain the excess liquid.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce and cook the chicken when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with Tomato and Olive Chicken Sauté?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as pasta, couscous, rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce while simmering, or add a small sliced chili pepper to the pan with the garlic.

Can I freeze this dish?

You can freeze the chicken and sauce together in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat.

What kind of olives should I use?

Kalamata olives are commonly used in Mediterranean dishes and work great in this recipe, but you can also use green olives, Castelvetrano olives, or a combination of different types.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes, you can sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top of the chicken before serving or stir some into the sauce for added richness and flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as long as you avoid using any gluten-containing sauces or condiments.

Conclusion

Tomato and Olive Chicken Sauté is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the tastes of the Mediterranean right to your table. With tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and aromatic herbs, it’s a simple yet delicious meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. This dish is versatile, healthy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Enjoy the rich flavors and the ease of preparation with every bite!

Jane