Mediterranean Chicken with Olives & Feta
This Mediterranean Chicken with Olives & Feta is a vibrant, one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breast, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and salty feta cheese, all cooked together for a quick and satisfying dinner.
For 4 servings
Pat chicken breasts dry and cut them into 1-inch (2.5 cm) bite-sized pieces. Season generously with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium. Add the sliced red onion to the same pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, pitted Kalamata olives, and dried oregano. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices. Season with the remaining 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper.
Return the browned chicken pieces to the pan, tossing gently to combine with the vegetables and juices. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to finish cooking through.
Remove the pan from heat. Crumble the feta cheese evenly over the top of the chicken and vegetable mixture. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving warm.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of searing it, preventing a good crust.
- 2Quality Ingredients Matter: Use good quality Kalamata olives and a block of feta cheese (not pre-crumbled) for the best flavor and texture.
- 3Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish before adding the final salt, as olives and feta are already quite salty.
- 4Prep Ahead: Chop all vegetables and chicken ahead of time to make this meal even quicker on a busy weeknight.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetable Boost
Add sliced bell peppers (red or yellow) or spinach along with the tomatoes for extra nutrients and color.
Herb SwapHerb Swap
Replace dried oregano with fresh herbs like dill, rosemary, or a mix of Italian herbs for a different aromatic profile.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Source
Chicken breast provides high-quality lean protein essential for muscle repair, growth, and satiety, helping to keep you full longer.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Olive oil and Kalamata olives contribute monounsaturated fats, which are known to support cardiovascular health and reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Antioxidant-Rich Vegetables
Cherry tomatoes and red onions are packed with antioxidants like lycopene and quercetin, which help protect cells from damage and support overall well-being.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They may require a few extra minutes of cooking time and will result in a richer, moister dish.
