Name: Mediterranean Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 oz boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced into bite-sized pieces; 1 1/2 cup eggplant, chopped; 2 Tbsp olive oil; 2 medium-sized tomatoes, chopped; 1 tsp tomato paste; 1 carrot, sliced; 1/2 cup broccoli florets, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 scallions, chopped; 1/2 cup olives, whole; 1/2 tsp basil (dry or a handful of fresh); 1/2 tsp coriander; 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper (optional); 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; Fresh basil (if using fresh); Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe

This Mediterranean Chicken Recipe is a one-pan wonder that captures the heart and soul of coastal cuisine with its vibrant flavors, colorful vegetables, and irresistible aromas. Picture juicy chicken mingling with tender eggplant, zesty olives, garden-fresh tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese—all brought together in a dish that feels as cozy and sun-drenched as a Mediterranean afternoon. Whether served on a quiet weeknight or while hosting friends, this is the sort of recipe you’ll return to again and again, not just for the ease, but for the memories-in-the-making at your dinner table.

Mediterranean Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Mediterranean Chicken Recipe is just how simple and accessible each ingredient is, yet every one plays a starring role in the finished dish. They contribute not only unique tastes and textures, but also a gorgeous palette of colors that make this meal a true feast for the senses.

Eggplant: Brings a silky texture and a subtle, earthy flavor that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Offer rich, juicy meat with plenty of flavor—perfect for quick sautéing and soaking up seasonings.
Tomatoes: Add a burst of freshness and a little natural sweetness—their juices help make the sauce.
Tomato paste: Deepens the flavor and enhances that gorgeous saucy consistency, binding everything together.
Carrot: Brings a gentle sweetness and tender bite, brightening up each mouthful.
Broccoli florets: Add crunch and color, plus that fresh, green note the Mediterranean palette is known for.
Olives (whole): Release tangy, briny pops of flavor—don’t skip them if you want full Mediterranean character.
Garlic cloves: Deliver bold, savory notes and that irresistible aroma that makes everyone ask, “What’s cooking?”
Scallions: Offer a gentle onion-like flavor that’s subtle yet unmistakable, and adds light green sparks to the dish.
Olive oil: The backbone of any Mediterranean meal, it brings silkiness, richness, and that signature flavor.
Feta cheese (crumbled): Melts ever-so-slightly, lending a creamy, salty punch that’s pure magic.
Basil (dry or fresh): Fresh basil brings brightness while dry works beautifully for an herby warmth—choose what’s at hand.
Coriander: Gives a slightly citrusy, complex undertone that really lifts the flavors.
Crushed red pepper (optional): For anyone who loves a bit of a kick, this brings gentle, adjustable heat.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Eggplant

Start by slicing the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and chopping your eggplant. In a medium skillet, heat a generous drizzle of olive oil over medium-high. Add both the chicken and eggplant, and let them sauté together for four to five minutes. The chicken should turn golden at the edges while the eggplant softens and soaks up that savory flavor.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes

Toss in those chopped, garden-fresh tomatoes right on top of the chicken and eggplant. Pop on a lid and let everything cook for about three more minutes. The tomatoes will release their juices, infusing the dish with bright flavor and a little natural acidity that keeps each bite lively.

Step 3: Stir in Tomato Paste and Adjust Consistency

Remove the lid and swirl in the tomato paste. If things look a bit dry, add a tablespoon or two of water—just enough to help the sauce come together. This step deepens the color and flavor, making the sauce glossy and rich.

Step 4: Add Veggies and Seasonings

Lower the heat to medium and toss in the chopped broccoli, carrot slices, sliced scallions, basil (dry if you’re using it now), coriander, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper if desired. Add another splash of olive oil for silkiness, then stir and cook three or four minutes more—just until the broccoli is tender but still beautifully green.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese, Olives, and Fresh Herbs

Now, scatter over the feta cheese, whole olives, minced garlic, and fresh basil if you have it. Give everything a good stir, letting the feta start to melt into creamy pockets. Let it cook just another minute, then turn off the heat. Your kitchen will smell like a summer evening on the Mediterranean!

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. This Mediterranean Chicken Recipe is fantastic as is, or you can pile it into bowls alongside rustic bread and a crisp tomato, cucumber, and avocado salad. Gather your people and dive in!

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

A finishing sprinkle of fresh basil or flat-leaf parsley brings a garden-fresh aroma and a pretty burst of green to the Mediterranean Chicken Recipe. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a scatter of extra crumbled feta on top will make it feel restaurant-worthy in mere seconds.

Side Dishes

This recipe begs to be paired with good bread—think crusty sourdough or soft pita—to catch every last drop of that luscious sauce. For a refreshing contrast, add a simple Mediterranean-style salad: chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, a squeeze of lemon and a dusting of fresh herbs. Even rice or couscous works wonders if you want something heartier.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Mediterranean Chicken Recipe family-style in a large, shallow platter for easy sharing. For something a bit playful, pile spoonfuls into sturdy lettuce cups or layer it over toasted baguette slices as rustic bruschetta. Leftovers even make a fantastic filling for wraps or Mediterranean-inspired grain bowls.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, transfer any leftover Mediterranean Chicken Recipe to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen and meld overnight, making the next day’s lunch even more delicious!

Freezing

You can freeze portions of Mediterranean Chicken Recipe for up to two months. Place cooled servings in freezer-safe containers or zip bags, squeezing out as much air as possible. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken mixture in a skillet over medium-low, adding a splash of water or chicken stock to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir occasionally until hot, then garnish with fresh herbs or a touch of extra feta cheese to refresh its flavors.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While I love the tenderness and richer flavor of thighs for this Mediterranean Chicken Recipe, chicken breast works just as well. Just be careful not to overcook—breast cooks quickly and can dry out if left on heat too long.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Certainly! Simply replace the chicken with canned chickpeas or extra eggplant and zucchini. Keep everything else the same and you’ll have a robust Mediterranean vegetable stew brimming with flavor.

Can I make this Mediterranean Chicken Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this recipe completely ahead; if anything, the flavors get even more irresistible after resting. Reheat gently before serving and refresh with a touch of olive oil and some fresh herbs.

What substitutions work well for feta cheese?

If feta isn’t your thing or you need a substitute, try crumbled goat cheese for tanginess, or even small cubes of fresh mozzarella for creamy richness. Vegan feta alternatives also work beautifully if you’re keeping it dairy-free.

How spicy does it get with the crushed red pepper?

The crushed red pepper is completely optional and easy to adjust to your taste. If you like just a hint of heat, start small; otherwise, leave it out and let the dish be all about those classic Mediterranean flavors!

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Mediterranean Chicken Recipe enough—it’s the kind of meal that comes together quickly, yet feels like something truly special with every bite. Make it once and I promise, it’ll become a regular in your recipe rotation. Try it soon, share it with loved ones, and enjoy a little bit of Mediterranean sunshine from your very own kitchen!

Mediterranean Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 27 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Mediterranean Chicken Recipe is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines tender chicken with a variety of vegetables and feta cheese, all cooked in aromatic olive oil and spices. Perfect for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Instructions

Sautee Chicken and Eggplant: In a medium skillet, cook the chicken and eggplant in olive oil over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes.
Add Tomatoes: Add fresh tomatoes, cover, and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
Stir in Tomato Paste: Mix in tomato paste and a bit of water if needed.
Cook Veggies: Lower the heat to medium and add broccoli, carrots, scallions, basil, coriander, and crushed pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Finish with Cheese: Stir in feta cheese, olives, garlic, and fresh basil. Cook for another minute until cheese starts to melt.
Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper, then serve as is or with bread and a side salad. Enjoy!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Sauteeing
Cuisine: Mediterranean