Chicken with Olives

Green Olive and Onion Chicken Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken with olives is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with the briny taste of green olives. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

History

The combination of chicken and olives has been a popular dish in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. Olives have long been a staple in Mediterranean cooking, and their unique flavor pairs perfectly with the mild taste of chicken. This recipe has been passed down through generations and is a favorite in many households.

Ingredients

200 g green olives
1 lemon - freshly squeezed juice
2 – 3 tbsp olive oil
2 onions — sliced
1 tsp cooking salt
1 tsp pepper
0.25 tsp ginger
1 tbsp paprika
1 kg chicken breasts
1 onion — finely chopped

How to prepare

Heat oil in a large saucepan.
Gradually add 0.75 cup of water.
Finely chop one onion and slice the other two.
Grate the ginger.
Sprinkle spices over the onion slices.
Place the chicken on top.
Steam over low heat for 20 minutes.
Add the finely chopped onion and steam for another 5 minutes.
Just before serving, squeeze lemon juice over the dish.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
Use black olives instead of green olives for a different taste profile.
Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth for extra moisture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the chicken well with salt, pepper, and spices before cooking to enhance the flavor.

- Be sure to cook the chicken over low heat to ensure it stays tender and juicy.

- Adding a squeeze of lemon juice at the end of cooking will brighten up the flavors of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chicken with olives over a bed of couscous or rice for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for added nutrition.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses a combination of steaming and sautéing to cook the chicken and olives. This helps to lock in the flavors and keep the chicken tender and juicy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have green olives on hand, you can use black olives or Kalamata olives instead. You can also use chicken thighs or drumsticks in place of chicken breasts.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken with olives ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color. You can also serve it in a decorative serving dish for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Chicken with olives pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including roasted vegetables, couscous, rice, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with a glass of white wine or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of chicken with olives contains around 350 calories. This makes it a satisfying and filling meal option.

Carbohydrates

This dish is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet. Each serving contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Chicken with olives is a moderate source of fats, with each serving containing around 12 grams of fat. The olive oil used in the recipe adds healthy monounsaturated fats to the dish.

Proteins

This dish is a great source of protein, with each serving containing approximately 40 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken with olives is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, iron, and potassium. Olives are also rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.

Alergens

This recipe contains onions, which may be a common allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Overall, chicken with olives is a nutritious and balanced meal option. It is high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and contains healthy fats and a variety of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chicken with olives is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its flavorful combination of tender chicken and briny olives, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Chicken with Olives. It was a warm summer day, and I was at the local farmers market looking for fresh ingredients to inspire my next culinary creation. As I wandered among the stalls filled with vibrant fruits and vegetables, my eyes were drawn to a small, elderly woman selling a variety of olives from different regions.

Intrigued by the diverse selection before me, I struck up a conversation with the woman and asked her about the various types of olives she had on display. With a twinkle in her eye, she began to tell me stories of her travels to far-off lands where she had learned the art of preserving olives in different ways.

As she spoke, I could sense her passion for food and the joy it brought her to share her knowledge with others. I listened intently as she described the process of marinating olives in fragrant herbs and spices, transforming them into a delicious and versatile ingredient that could be used in a multitude of dishes.

Intrigued by her tales of culinary adventures, I couldn't resist asking her if she had a favorite recipe that featured olives. With a knowing smile, she leaned in closer and whispered in my ear, "Chicken with Olives." She went on to describe how the tangy briny flavor of the olives complemented the tender juicy chicken, creating a dish that was both comforting and satisfying.

Eager to try my hand at this tantalizing recipe, I purchased a jar of her marinated olives and thanked her for sharing her wisdom with me. As I made my way home, I couldn't wait to get into the kitchen and start cooking.

Once I arrived home, I wasted no time in gathering the necessary ingredients for the Chicken with Olives recipe. I marinated the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and a medley of herbs and spices before searing it in a hot skillet until it was browned and crispy on the outside.

Next, I added the marinated olives to the pan, along with some chopped tomatoes, onions, and a splash of white wine. I let the ingredients simmer together, allowing the flavors to meld and create a rich and savory sauce that coated the chicken in a luscious glaze.

As the dish cooked, the aroma of garlic, herbs, and olives filled the air, tantalizing my senses and whetting my appetite. I couldn't wait to sit down and savor the fruits of my labor, knowing that each bite would be a tribute to the ancient art of preserving olives and the culinary traditions of generations past.

When the Chicken with Olives was finally ready, I plated it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of bold and vibrant tastes, each one more delicious than the last.

As I savored the dish, I couldn't help but think back to the elderly woman at the farmers market who had shared her love of olives with me. I realized that cooking was more than just following a recipe – it was a way of connecting with others and preserving the traditions of the past.

And so, as I finished my meal, I made a silent vow to continue exploring new flavors and techniques, always seeking out the stories behind the recipes that would enrich my culinary journey. For it is in the sharing of food and knowledge that we create lasting memories and forge connections that transcend time and place.