Chicken with cherry tomatoes, olives and capers

Chicken with cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers is a Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender chicken complemented by the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and tangy capers. This simple recipe is perfect for a family dinner or special gatherings.

23 Jan 2026
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

4 chicken breasts
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
1.50 cups cherry tomatoes
1/3 cup olives
2 tbsp capers
1 tsp spice mix
2 tbsp olive oil

Chicken with cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers is a savory, Mediterranean-inspired dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender chicken, burst-in-your-mouth cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and tangy capers. It's a delicious yet straightforward recipe that's perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Dice the onion finely.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Slice the olives if they are not pre-sliced.

2. Season Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
- Sprinkle the spice mix evenly over the chicken breasts.

3. Heat Olive Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

4. Cook Chicken:
- Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

5. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic.
- Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

6. Add Cherry Tomatoes, Olives, and Capers:
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers to the skillet.
- Stir to combine and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to soften slightly.

7. Combine Chicken with Mixture:
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them among the mixture of tomatoes, olives, and capers.
- Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken breasts.

8. Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully warmed through and coated with the flavorful mixture.

9. Serve:
- Transfer the chicken breasts to serving plates.
- Spoon the cherry tomato, olive, and caper mixture over the top of each chicken breast.

10. Enjoy:
- Serve hot, perhaps with a side of rice, pasta, or crusty bread to mop up the delicious sauce. Enjoy!

This Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes, Olives, and Capers recipe is a harmonious combination of vibrant flavors and textures that is sure to please any palate. By following the steps carefully and incorporating these tips, you can create a delightful, restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Enjoy the richly layered taste of Mediterranean cuisine with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.

Chicken with cherry tomatoes, olives and capers FAQ:

What is the cooking time for the chicken?

Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side in the skillet, or until they are golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.

What should I do if my chicken isn't golden brown after 6-7 minutes?

If the chicken isn't golden brown after 6-7 minutes, continue cooking it for a few more minutes, checking frequently. Ensure your skillet is properly heated and avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the temperature.

Can I make substitutions for the olives?

Yes, you can substitute olives with other briny ingredients like artichoke hearts or pickles, but this will alter the flavor profile. Use a similar amount to maintain balance in the dish.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the skillet or microwave before serving.

What size skillet is best for this recipe?

A large skillet, ideally 10-12 inches in diameter, is recommended to accommodate the chicken breasts and other ingredients without overcrowding.

Tips:

- Choose chicken breasts of equal size to ensure even cooking.

- Use a spice mix that complements Mediterranean flavors - oregano, thyme, and basil are excellent choices.

- If you prefer, you can use pitted olives to make the dish easier to eat.

- Cut the onion and garlic finely to ensure they blend well into the sauce.

- Pat the chicken breasts dry before cooking to ensure a good sear.

- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out.

- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and a pop of color.

- Serve with crusty bread or over pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 190kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 8g
Fiber 2.15g
Sugar 4.15g
Fat 12g

Chicken with cherry tomatoes, olives and capers