Chicken with olives and tomatoes

Chicken with olives and tomatoes combines Mediterranean flavours with tender chicken roasted in a rich tomato and olive sauce. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

27 Dec 2025
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

3 lb whole chicken
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion
1 tsp salt
1 red pepper
2 cans canned tomatoes
1/2 cup olives
1/2 cup chicken gravy
2 tbsp lemon zest
1/2 bunch fresh parsley
2 garlic cloves
Chicken with olives and tomatoes

Chicken with olives and tomatoes is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the Mediterranean flavors of fresh tomatoes, olives, and herbs. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, offering a delightful combination of tender chicken and savory vegetables in a rich tomato sauce. Follow this guide to create a delicious and hearty meal that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Trim any excess fat if necessary.
2. Sear the Chicken:
- In a large ovenproof skillet or a Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Place the chicken into the skillet and sear it on all sides until it is golden brown. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook Aromatics:
- Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add Vegetables:
- Stir in the diced red pepper and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Combine Ingredients:
- Add the canned tomatoes with their juice, olives, and chicken gravy to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Season with 1 teaspoon of salt (or adjust to taste).
6. Add Lemon and Chicken:
- Stir in the lemon zest.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the vegetable mixture.
7. Roast in the Oven:
- Transfer the skillet or Dutch oven to the preheated oven.
- Roast uncovered for about 60-70 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear when the thickest part of the thigh is pierced.
8. Finish with Parsley:
- Remove the skillet from the oven. Carefully transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
- While the chicken rests, stir the chopped fresh parsley into the tomato and olive mixture in the skillet.
9. Serve:
- Carve the chicken into serving pieces and arrange on a platter.
- Spoon the tomato and olive mixture over the chicken.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh parsley if desired.

Your chicken with olives and tomatoes is now ready to be served! This delightful dish combines the succulent flavors of tender chicken with the rich taste of tomatoes, olives, and fresh herbs. Serve it with a side of bread, rice, or your favorite grain to soak up the delicious tomato sauce. Enjoy this hearty and comforting meal with family and friends, and savor the taste of the Mediterranean in every bite.

Chicken with olives and tomatoes FAQ:

What is the baking time for the chicken in this recipe?

The chicken should be roasted in the oven for 60-70 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How can I tell if the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear when the thickest part of the thigh is pierced. Use a meat thermometer for accurate readings.

Can I use other types of olives in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute other olives like green olives or kalamata olives based on your preference. Just ensure they are pitted.

How should I store leftovers from this dish?

Store leftover chicken with olives and tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What size pan should I use for this recipe?

A large ovenproof skillet or a Dutch oven works best for this recipe, providing enough space for the whole chicken and the vegetable mixture.

Cooking Tips:

- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon zest, garlic, and some of the parsley a few hours before cooking.

- Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to ensure even cooking and to retain the heat.

- Be sure to brown the chicken well before adding the other ingredients for a richer taste.

- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the tomatoes cook down more by simmering the dish uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes.

- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other Mediterranean ingredients like capers or sun-dried tomatoes.

- Serve the dish with crusty bread to dip into the flavorful sauce, or on top of rice, couscous, or pasta for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 1120kcal
Protein 90g
Carbohydrates 16g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 8g
Fat 80g

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