When I crave something light but super flavorful, I make this Mediterranean chicken: it’s one of those recipes that saves dinner without stress and that everyone always likes. The chicken breast slices become tender and juicy, and the mix of cherry tomatoes, black olives, capers and toasted pine nuts creates an aroma that immediately smells of sun and simple cooking, the kind that lifts your spirits.
This is a quick chicken recipe, perfect when you have little time but don’t want to give up a colorful, flavor-packed dish.
Plus, this version is without white wine, so it’s even lighter and suitable for the whole family. Just a bit of broth or a splash of lemon gives that fresh note that ties everything perfectly.
It’s the classic dish you can improvise with what you already have in the pantry, and it always works: a real joker.
If you love chicken with olives and capers, or are looking for a different idea than the usual pan-fried chicken breast, this Mediterranean recipe will make you fall in love. It comes together in minutes, it’s healthy, fragrant and goes wonderfully with rice, couscous or a simple salad. One of those recipes that quickly becomes a weekly rotation.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cost: Inexpensive
- Preparation time: 10 Minutes
- Cooking time: 15 Minutes
- Cooking methods: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: All seasons
Ingredients
- 12 oz chicken breast
- 15 cherry tomatoes (datterini or cherry tomatoes)
- 3 tbsp black olives
- 2 tbsp capers, rinsed
- 2 tbsp pine nuts
- as needed broth
- garlic
- extra virgin olive oil
- oregano, salt
Tools
- 1 Meat tenderizer meat tenderizer
- 1 Kitchen scale scale
- 1 Pan pan
Steps
In a nonstick pan, without oil, toast the pine nuts for 2-3 minutes until golden.
Set them aside.
In the same pan, heat a drizzle of oil with a crushed clove of garlic.
Add the lightly floured chicken slices, season lightly with salt and brown them for 2-3 minutes per side.
Turn up the heat and add the broth.
When the liquid has reduced a bit, add the tomatoes halved.
Add the olives, capers and a pinch of oregano.
Cover and cook 8-10 minutes over medium heat, until the tomatoes soften and form a light sauce.
At the end of cooking add the toasted pine nuts.
Adjust salt and pepper.
Turn off the heat and let rest for a minute.
FAQ (Questions and Answers)
How can I replace the broth in the recipe?
You can deglaze with 1/2 glass of white wine, letting the alcohol evaporate before adding the other ingredients.
Can I use diced chicken instead of slices?
Absolutely yes. Cooking times will be slightly reduced and you’ll get an even faster dish that’s perfect for mixing with rice or couscous.
What side dishes go well with Mediterranean chicken?
Great with basmati rice, couscous, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad. Grilled vegetables are also perfect.
Can I add other vegetables?
Of course: zucchini, bell peppers or eggplant pair very well with Mediterranean flavors and make the dish even more complete.
