Pan Roasted Chicken with Olives and Tomatoes – A Mediterranean Delight 🐔🍅🫒
This Pan Roasted Chicken with Olives and Tomatoes brings bold Mediterranean flavors together in one skillet. Juicy, golden-seared chicken thighs are paired with briny olives, sweet cherry tomatoes, and aromatic herbs for a rustic and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. 💚
Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Chicken Dish 💚
- ✅ One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
- ✅ Fresh, Bold Ingredients: Mediterranean staples like olives, tomatoes, and herbs shine.
- ✅ Ready in 30–40 Minutes: Great for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.
- ✅ Low-Carb & Gluten-Free: Naturally wholesome and nourishing.
🍅 Pan Roasted Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts) 🐔
- 1 tbsp olive oil 🫒
- 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 🍅
- ½ cup Kalamata or green olives, pitted and halved 🫒
- ½ tsp dried oregano 🌿
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional) 🌶️
- Salt & pepper to taste 🧂
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish 🌿
- Optional: splash of white wine or lemon juice 🍋
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and prep:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and oregano. - Brown the chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Sear chicken skin-side down for 5–7 minutes until golden. Flip and cook 2 minutes more. Remove and set aside. - Sauté aromatics:
In the same skillet, reduce heat slightly and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add tomatoes and olives; stir in paprika and a splash of white wine or lemon juice if using. Simmer for 2–3 minutes. - Roast to finish:
Nestle chicken back into skillet, skin-side up. Transfer to oven and roast for 15–20 minutes or until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C). - Garnish and serve:
Sprinkle with fresh herbs and serve hot with crusty bread, couscous, or a green salad. 🍅🐔
💡 Tips & Flavor Variations
- ✨ Add depth: Stir in a spoonful of capers or sun-dried tomatoes.
- ✨ Use boneless thighs: Reduce oven time slightly and monitor for doneness.
- ✨ Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or chopped Calabrian peppers.
- ✨ Brighten it up: Finish with lemon zest or a drizzle of herbed vinaigrette.
🌿 Nutritional Highlights
This dish is high in lean protein, healthy fats from olive oil, and rich in antioxidants from tomatoes and herbs. A balanced, Mediterranean-inspired dinner that supports heart health and flavor cravings alike.
🧊 Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- ✅ Make-ahead: Marinate chicken and prep ingredients up to a day in advance.
- ✅ Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- ✅ Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this with chicken breasts?
Yes—just adjust the cooking time as breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Try it with couscous, lemony orzo, roasted potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the juices.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes—drained canned cherry or diced tomatoes work great when fresh aren’t available.
Rustic, Savory & So Satisfying 💚
This Pan Roasted Chicken with Olives and Tomatoes is an easy, elegant way to bring Mediterranean flavor to your table—any night of the week. 🍅💬 Share or pin it for your next dinner inspiration!