This Skillet Chicken with Olives is a savory, Mediterranean-inspired dish that brings bold flavors to your table with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken thighs, briny olives, garlic, and herbs creates a beautifully balanced meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The olives add a rich, tangy depth to the dish, while the garlic and herbs provide a fragrant backdrop, making every bite a delightful experience. The best part? It all comes together in one skillet, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy with family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup green olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 lemon, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Brown the chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the olives and herbs: Stir in the green and Kalamata olives, oregano, and thyme. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the olives to release their flavors.
- Deglaze the pan: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the lemon slices and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Return the chicken to the skillet: Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up, ensuring they are surrounded by the olive mixture. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and serve: Once cooked, garnish the dish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
Enjoy the rustic flavors of this Skillet Chicken with Olives for a satisfying and comforting meal.
