26 Apr 2025
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 5 min
Ingredients:
12 chicken thighs
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
2 onions
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp vinegar
salt & pepper to taste
1 cup olives
1 tbsp capers
1/2 cup basil leaves
Chicken with tomatoes, olives, and capers is a delightful Mediterranean dish that combines tender chicken thighs with the vibrant flavors of cherry tomatoes, tangy olives, and briny capers. This recipe is not only flavorful but also nutritious, making it a perfect option for a satisfying meal.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rinse and pat dry the chicken thighs with paper towels.
- Slice the onions thinly.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Chop the basil leaves roughly.
2. Sear the Chicken:
- Heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- When the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for about 5-7 minutes or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onions:
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onions. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until they are soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine Ingredients:
- Lower the heat to medium and add the halved cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Pour in the 2 tablespoons of vinegar. Stir again to incorporate all flavors.
5. Bake the Dish:
- Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, placing them on top of the sautéed vegetable mixture, skin-side up.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Finish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the oven carefully.
- Sprinkle the roughly chopped basil leaves over the top of the chicken and vegetable mixture before serving.
- Serve the chicken hot with the tomato, olive, and caper mixture spooned over the top. Enjoy with your choice of side dish or fresh crusty bread.
Tips:
- Opt for skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs for added flavor and moisture.
- If fresh basil is not available, dried basil can be used, but reduce the amount by half.
- Use a mix of green and black olives for a more complex flavor profile.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add a splash of white wine to the pan for extra depth of flavor.
Cooking chicken with tomatoes, olives, and capers is a straightforward process that yields a delectable and aromatic dish. By following these tips and the provided recipe, you'll be able to create a mouthwatering meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the harmony of Mediterranean flavors with every bite!