Chicken Casserole with Tomatoes, Olives and Feta

Greek Chicken Casserole with Tomatoes, Olives and Feta Recipe

Region / culture: Greece | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Casserole with Tomatoes, Olives and Feta is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and tangy feta cheese with tender chicken pieces. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

History

This recipe is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, which is known for its use of fresh and flavorful ingredients like tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. The combination of these ingredients creates a rich and satisfying dish that is sure to please your taste buds.

Ingredients

1 large chicken, cut into serving pieces
1 cup flour for dredging
salt and pepper to taste
0.5 cup olive oil
0.75 lb (350 g) pearl onions, peeled but whole
8 ripe tomatoes
water
1 cup Greek cracked green olives, preferably pitted
1 – 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
200 g crumbled feta

How to prepare

Season the flour with salt and pepper.
Coat the chicken pieces in the flour, removing any excess.
Heat the oil in a large, deep, wide skillet or Dutch oven over high heat and brown the chicken pieces, turning on all sides to ensure even cooking.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the chicken from the skillet to a plate and set aside.
Reduce the heat and add the onions.
Stir until wilted, approximately 8 minutes.
Return the chicken pieces to the pot.
Pour in the tomatoes, salt, pepper, and enough water to cover about three-quarters of the chicken pieces.
Cover the pot and simmer over low heat for approximately 35 minutes.
Add the olives and vinegar.
Sprinkle the feta cheese into the pot, cover, and continue to cook slowly for another 10 – 15 minutes, or until the feta has melted and the chicken is so tender that it is nearly falling off the bone.
Remove from heat and serve.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra vegetables.
Use black olives or Kalamata olives instead of green olives for a different flavor profile.
Substitute chicken thighs or drumsticks for a different cut of chicken.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the flour well before dredging the chicken pieces to ensure that they are flavorful.

- Browning the chicken pieces before simmering them in the tomato and olive mixture helps to seal in the juices and create a delicious crust.

- Be sure to simmer the chicken slowly over low heat to ensure that it becomes tender and flavorful.

- Adding the feta cheese towards the end of cooking allows it to melt and infuse the dish with its creamy texture and tangy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Chicken Casserole with Tomatoes, Olives and Feta with crusty bread or over cooked pasta for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the chicken before simmering helps to develop flavor.

- Simmering the chicken slowly over low heat ensures that it becomes tender and juicy.

- Adding the feta cheese towards the end of cooking allows it to melt and infuse the dish with its creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.

- Substitute vegetable broth for water for added flavor.

- Use goat cheese or ricotta in place of feta cheese.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this Chicken Casserole with Tomatoes, Olives and Feta in a large serving dish garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red wine like Pinot Noir for a perfect pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 500 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 30 grams of fats per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 35 grams of proteins per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the flour used for dredging the chicken. It also contains dairy from the feta cheese.

Summary

This recipe is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chicken Casserole with Tomatoes, Olives and Feta is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. With its rich flavors and tender chicken, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a beautiful combination of ingredients that I had never thought to put together before. Tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese? How intriguing!

I first came across this recipe many years ago, when I was visiting my friend Nancy. She was known for her delicious and unique dishes, and this one was no exception. As soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Nancy graciously shared her recipe with me, and I eagerly wrote it down in my trusty recipe book. Over the years, I have made this chicken casserole countless times, tweaking and perfecting it to suit my own tastes.

The secret, Nancy told me, was in the way the flavors melded together during the cooking process. The sweetness of the tomatoes, the tanginess of the olives, and the creaminess of the feta cheese all combined to create a truly unforgettable dish.

But it wasn't just the flavors that drew me to this recipe. It was the memories associated with it as well. Every time I make this chicken casserole, I am reminded of the warm summer day when Nancy first served it to me, and the laughter and joy we shared as we enjoyed our meal together.

As I started to experiment with the recipe on my own, I began to add my own personal touches. I found that by marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic before baking it with the tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, the flavors became even more pronounced and delicious.

I also discovered that by using fresh herbs such as oregano and basil, the dish took on a whole new level of complexity and depth. The aroma of the herbs as the casserole baked in the oven was intoxicating, and I knew I had created something truly special.

As I continued to make this chicken casserole over the years, it became a staple in my repertoire of recipes. Whenever I had guests over for dinner, this dish was always a crowd pleaser. The bright colors and bold flavors never failed to impress, and I loved watching the smiles on my guests' faces as they took their first bite.

I have shared this recipe with many friends and family members over the years, and it has become a beloved favorite for all who have tried it. The combination of tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese may seem unconventional at first, but once you taste the magic that happens when these ingredients come together, you'll understand why this dish holds a special place in my heart.

So, the next time you're looking for a unique and delicious recipe to try, I urge you to give this chicken casserole with tomatoes, olives, and feta a chance. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll create your own memories and stories to go along with it. Happy cooking!