Dive into the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with our mouthwatering Mediterranean Chicken Stew with Lemon, Garlic, and Olives! This hearty dish is a symphony of tender chicken thighs, zesty lemon, and briny olives, simmered to perfection in a savory broth. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this stew is not just a feast for the palate but also a visual delight. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a dish that transports you straight to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean. Ready to tantalize your taste buds? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by patting chicken thighs dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt, pepper, and dried oregano on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once oil is shimmering, carefully place chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 6-7 minutes until skin turns golden brown and crispy.
- Flip chicken thighs and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate.
- In the same pan, add chopped onions and reduce heat to medium. Sauté onions for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and start to soften.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits for additional flavor.
- Return chicken thighs to the pan, nestling them into the liquid. Add sliced olives around the chicken.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, spooning the sauce and olives over the chicken. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley or additional lemon zest.
Tips
- Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step! Browning the chicken thighs adds depth and richness to the stew, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh garlic and a ripe lemon. Fresh ingredients elevate the dish and bring out the best flavors.
- Customize the Olives: Feel free to experiment with different types of olives. Kalamata, green, or a mix can add unique flavors and textures to the stew.
- Simmer Low and Slow: Allow the chicken to simmer gently. This ensures it becomes tender and absorbs the delicious flavors of the broth.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a touch of extra lemon zest just before serving adds a pop of color and freshness, making your dish even more appealing.
- Pair with Sides: Serve this stew with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad to complete your Mediterranean dining experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 120mg
