Braised Mediterranean Chicken is a rich and comforting dish that combines tender chicken with the bold flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Cooked slowly with ingredients like olives, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, this dish delivers a delightful balance of savory and tangy flavors, making it a satisfying choice for a cozy meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Braised Mediterranean Chicken with a side of couscous, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. It also pairs well with roasted or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a complete dining experience, enjoy it with a simple green salad or a light yogurt-based sauce on the side.
Pairing Ideas
This dish complements a variety of sides and accompaniments. It works well with grains such as couscous or rice, providing a base to absorb the savory sauce.
It also pairs nicely with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for added texture and flavor. For a more indulgent option, serve it with a side of creamy polenta or mashed potatoes.
Tips and Notes
- Chicken: Use bone-in, skinless chicken thighs or legs for optimal flavor and tenderness. Ensure the chicken is browned before braising to enhance the depth of flavor.
- Braised Ingredients: Include olives, capers, and sun-dried tomatoes for a rich, Mediterranean taste. Adjust the quantity based on your preference for saltiness and tanginess.
- Cooking Time: Braise the chicken slowly over low heat to allow the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender. This may take 1 to 1.5 hours depending on the size of the chicken pieces.
- Storage: Store any leftover braised chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
Enjoy the savory and comforting flavors of Braised Mediterranean Chicken as a delightful addition to your meal repertoire!
Braised Mediterranean Chicken
Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven with a lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
Ingredients
- 8 bone-in - skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper - to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion - chopped
- 4 cloves garlic - minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes - optional
- 1 can - 14 ounces diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes - chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives - pitted and sliced
- Fresh parsley - chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, and sliced olives. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 45-50 minutes, or until cooked through and tender.
- Once the chicken is done, remove the skillet from the heat. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish the braised Mediterranean chicken with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve the chicken hot with your favorite side dishes, such as rice, couscous, or crusty bread, and enjoy the delicious flavors of the Mediterranean!
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven before serving.