Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your senses straight to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean! This Chicken with Olives and Dates recipe is not just a meal, it's an experience that combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in one irresistible dish. Imagine tender chicken thighs caramelized to golden perfection, nestled among rich, plump dates and briny green olives - a combination so unexpected yet so delightful that it will revolutionize your dinner routine!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup green olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup dates, pitted and chopped
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, 1/2 cup of pitted green olives, 1/2 cup of pitted and chopped dates, 1 sliced onion, 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt and pepper to taste, and fresh parsley for garnish.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Push the sautéed onions and garlic to the side of the skillet and add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the chicken thighs and cook for another 5 minutes on the other side. The chicken should be browned but not fully cooked through at this point.
- Once the chicken is browned, add the chopped dates and green olives to the skillet, spreading them evenly around the chicken. This will allow the flavors to meld together during cooking.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the chicken cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- To serve, plate the chicken thighs and spoon the olive and date mixture over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added flavor.
- Enjoy your Mediterranean-inspired Chicken with Olives and Dates alongside a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
Tips
- Choose chicken thighs with the skin on for maximum flavor and crispy texture.
- Use high-quality, pitted green olives for the best taste - Kalamata or Spanish olives work wonderfully.
- Make sure to brown the chicken skin thoroughly before reducing heat to ensure a crispy exterior.
- Don't rush the cooking process - the slow simmer allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Fresh parsley is key - it adds a bright, fresh note that cuts through the rich flavors.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the chicken at its most succulent and flavorful moment.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 353kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 21g
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 65mg
