Greek Island Chicken: A Quick and Flavorful One-Dish Meal
Embark on a culinary journey to the picturesque shores of Greece with our delightful Greek Island Chicken recipe, which beautifully combines the savory flavors of chicken breast with the aromatic notes of spices and fresh vegetables, all harmoniously tied together with a sweet and tangy sauce. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also makes for a complete meal when served over your choice of rice, couscous, or orzo, making it an ideal option for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with family and friends.
Ingredients
The ingredients for this dish are designed to bring a balance of flavors that encapsulate the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Below is a detailed table listing the ingredients along with their respective quantities.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless skinless chicken breasts | 2 pieces |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion | 1 medium |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Red bell pepper | 1 medium |
| Sun-dried tomatoes | 3/4 cup |
| Dry white wine | 1 1/2 cups |
| Pitted black olives | 1/3 cup |
| Lemon | 1, sliced |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Honey | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh parsley | 1 tablespoon, chopped |
Nutritional Information
This dish not only satisfies the palate but also provides a hearty dose of nutrition. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the nutritional content per serving.
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 |
| Total Fat | 18.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 68.4 mg |
| Sodium | 511.2 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 32.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.6 g |
| Sugars | 13.5 g |
| Protein | 31.2 g |
Cooking Instructions
To create this Mediterranean-inspired dish, follow these step-by-step instructions, which are designed to ensure that the chicken is perfectly cooked and infused with all the delightful flavors of the ingredients.
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Sauté the Chicken: Begin by adding the olive oil to a large skillet set over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, place the boneless skinless chicken breasts in the skillet. Sauté the chicken on all sides until it is nicely browned, which should take approximately 5 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté these vegetables for about one minute, allowing their natural sweetness to develop. After one minute, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional 3 minutes, or until the onion starts to become translucent and tender.
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Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Cut the sun-dried tomatoes in half, and add them to the skillet with the sautéed onions and peppers. Then, pour in the dry white wine, followed by the pitted black olives. Stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined.
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Mix in Seasonings: Sprinkle in the ground cinnamon and drizzle the honey over the mixture. Stir well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the seasonings and that the honey is fully incorporated.
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Return the Chicken to the Skillet: Gently place the browned chicken breasts back into the skillet, ensuring they are nestled among the vegetables and juices. Spoon some of the mixture over the chicken to help flavor it even further. Arrange the lemon slices on top of the chicken and around the vegetables for added brightness and flavor.
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Simmer: Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the dish to simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes. During this time, occasionally baste the chicken breasts with the pan juices to keep them moist and flavorful.
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Finish Cooking: After the initial 15 minutes of simmering, remove the lid and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes. This step helps to slightly reduce the sauce and ensures the chicken is cooked through and tender.
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Adjust Sauce Consistency (Optional): If you prefer a less liquid sauce, carefully transfer the chicken to a serving dish at this point. Increase the heat to medium-high and allow the sauce to boil for one to two minutes, or until it reaches your desired thickness.
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Serve: Once the sauce has reached your preferred consistency, spoon the flavorful sauce and vegetables over the chicken. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Greek Island Chicken over rice, couscous, or orzo to complete your meal.
Conclusion
This Greek Island Chicken recipe is not just a quick and delicious meal; it’s an invitation to experience the delightful flavors of Greek cuisine in your own kitchen. With its combination of sweetness from honey, warmth from cinnamon, and the zesty brightness of lemon and wine, this dish encapsulates the essence of Mediterranean dining. The ease of preparation, combined with its satisfying flavors and nutritional value, makes it a perfect candidate for your weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a taste of the Greek islands right at home!
