Mediterranean Chicken Skillet

There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aromas of a skillet dish bubbling away on the stove, especially one that features a delectable Mediterranean Chicken Skillet. This dish is rich with vibrant flavors, perfect for an inviting family dinner or a cozy night in. Packed with tender chicken and colorful veggies, this recipe creates a satisfying meal that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

What makes the Mediterranean Chicken Skillet truly special is its ability to combine simplicity with extraordinary flavor. The marinated chicken, infused with herbs and spices, complements the robust vegetables perfectly. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup for you, win-win! Whether you’re seasoned in the kitchen or looking for a simple dish to impress, this recipe is sure to delight. It’s also incredibly versatile, serve it over rice, couscous, or even with warm pita bread for an explosion of Mediterranean goodness.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds of chicken thighs, boneless and skinless (substitute with chicken breast for a leaner option)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color works)
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1:

Start by marinating the chicken. In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken in the marinade until evenly coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the fridge for even more flavor.

Step 2:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3:

In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent. Then, add the zucchini and cherry tomatoes and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4:

Return the chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Squeeze the lemon juice over everything, stir gently to combine, and let it cook together for an additional 2 minutes. This will help meld all those lovely flavors together.

Step 5:

Finally, garnish with fresh parsley and give it a good toss before serving. This dish looks stunning and tastes even better.

Nutritional Information

This Mediterranean Chicken Skillet provides a hearty, healthy meal packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals. Each serving has approximately 300 calories, 24 grams of protein, and a good dose of fiber, thanks to the colorful vegetables.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to cut down on calories or switch things up, try using grilled chicken or turkey breast instead. For a vegetarian twist, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or firm tofu. You can also swap out the veggies for your favorites, think eggplant, spinach, or artichokes. Trust me, it’ll still be delicious.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Chicken Skillet is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a side of fluffy couscous or fragrant basmati rice. You can also serve it with warm pita bread or a refreshing Greek salad. For a complete Mediterranean experience, consider adding a dollop of tzatziki sauce or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is overcrowding the pan when cooking the chicken. This can lead to steaming instead of browning, making it less flavorful. Make sure to cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Also, remember not to skip the marination step; the flavors truly shine when given time to meld.

Chef’s Notes

• For extra flavor, consider adding olives or sun-dried tomatoes to the dish.
• Want to make it a complete meal? Toss in some cooked quinoa or serve over a bed of greens.
• This dish makes excellent leftovers, so don’t hesitate to make a double batch. You can even meal-prep it for the week.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead?
  A1: Yes, but cook them longer until fully cooked through, and be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Q2: Is this recipe gluten-free?
  A2: Absolutely; It contains no gluten ingredients, making it safe for gluten-sensitive friends.
• Q3: How can I store leftovers?
  A3: Allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats wonderfully.

This Mediterranean Chicken Skillet is not just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience that brings warmth and joy to any meal. I hope you try it out and love every bit as much as I do; And if you’re in the mood for something different, check out my Homemade Chicken Shawarma Recipe or indulge in my creamy Chicken Alfredo Recipe. Happy cooking!

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