Mediterranean Olive Chicken
Healthy marinated roast chicken recipe with Mediterranean marinade - green olives, lime, honey, garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes.
Healthy marinated roast chicken recipe with Mediterranean marinade - green olives, lime, honey, garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes.
- salt and pepper
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp lime zest
- 3/4 cup chopped ripe green olives
- 1 tbsp crushed garlic
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes ((if sensitive to spice omit))
- 4-5 lbs chicken pieces (bone in, skin on (i like using chicken thighs))
- 2 tsp cornstarch (or potato starch (use potato starch f
- Carbohydrate 1.24783218641446 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 4.31139140987561 g
- Fiber 0.0641343746539056 g
- Protein 0.0579856249909577 g
- Saturated Fat 0.596149375499359 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (11g)
- Sodium 9.58610286468654 mg
- Sugar 1.18369781176055 g
- Trans Fat 0.119373390722124 g
- Calories 44 calories
Step-by-step
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chopped olives, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, honey, lime zest, red pepper flakes and oregano.
- Season the marinade with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle the chicken pieces lightly with salt and pepper.
- Place chicken pieces in a 9x13 ceramic or glass baking dish.
- Brush the pieces evenly with olive marinade, using all of the marinade to coat.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, up to overnight (overnight is best).
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
- Remove the plastic wrap and cover the baking dish with parchment or foil. If using foil, pierce a few vents with a sharp knife around the outer edges. If using parchment, simply cover the dish loosely.
- Place the covered dish in the oven.
- Let the chicken bake for 60 minutes, then remove the parchment or foil and cook for an additional 15-30 minutes, basting periodically, until well cooked and tender.
- At the end of cooking, you may broil it for a minute or two to brown the skin-- watch carefully to make sure it doesn't burn!
- Transfer chicken pieces to a platter.
- Carefully tip the baking dish so that the pan drippings and juices gather in one corner.
- Use a spoon to skim off the clear liquid fat, separating it from the solid drippings.
- Discard the fat.
- Pour the remaining drippings into a small saucepan along with ¼ cup of white wine.
- Heat the sauce slowly over medium.
- While sauce is heating, whisk together 1 tbsp cornstarch or 2 tsp potato starch and 2 tbsp water till smooth.
- Pour the starchy liquid into the saucepan and whisk until combined.
- Heat the sauce until bubbling and thickened.
- Serve the chicken topped with warm sauce.
Mediterranean Olive Chicken: A Flavorful and Easy Weeknight Meal
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like a Herculean task. But I've discovered that even amidst the chaos of work deadlines, school pick-ups, and never-ending to-do lists, there's still room for a satisfying and flavorful meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. This Mediterranean Olive Chicken recipe has become a weeknight staple in my home, and I'm excited to share it with you.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. The marinade, a vibrant blend of olives, lime, honey, and herbs, infuses the chicken with incredible Mediterranean flavors. The preparation is straightforward; even on the busiest days, I can have the chicken marinating in the refrigerator while I tackle other tasks. The result is juicy, tender chicken with a beautifully browned skin, bursting with sunshine-y tastes. It's a complete meal, satisfying and wholesome, a far cry from the takeout containers that once dominated my evenings.
I often serve this dish with a simple side of roasted vegetables or a light salad. The roasted vegetables add another layer of depth and color to the meal, while a fresh salad provides a refreshing contrast. The combination is both visually appealing and incredibly satisfying – a feast for the eyes and the palate. Even my picky eaters devour this dish, and I always get rave reviews! This meal easily satisfies the entire family, plus there are leftovers! What more could a busy mom want?
Beyond the ease of preparation and its deliciousness, this recipe also offers a healthy dose of protein and flavor. It's a perfect balance between indulgence and healthy eating, which is so important in my lifestyle. The olive oil adds healthy fats, and the herbs and spices offer a multitude of vitamins and antioxidants. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming.
Beyond the Dinner Table
This recipe isn’t limited to weeknight dinners. I've also used it for casual get-togethers with friends, potlucks, and even family celebrations. It always impresses, regardless of the occasion. It’s adaptable too; you can easily adjust the spice level based on your preference and use different cuts of chicken. Boneless, skinless breasts would cook faster, while bone-in thighs offer a richer flavor. Experiment with different herbs to personalize the marinade. The possibilities are endless!
This recipe's success lies in its ability to balance flavor, simplicity, and health. It perfectly complements the hectic pace of modern life. No more endless scrolling through recipe apps looking for something quick and satisfying. This is it. So, give this Mediterranean Olive Chicken a try, and I'm sure it will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen too.
Tips and Variations
For a spicier kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
For a citrusy twist: Incorporate some orange zest or juice along with the lime.
For extra herbs: Rosemary, thyme, or marjoram would be wonderful additions to the marinade.
Make it a complete meal: Serve with roasted vegetables, couscous, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Leftovers are a win: This recipe makes great leftovers for lunch or another dinner. The flavors meld beautifully overnight.
Don't be afraid to experiment! This recipe is a great base for creativity. Get in the kitchen and have fun!
