Italian Chicken and Olives Recipe

This Italian chicken and olives recipe is the perfect dish for those who want to enjoy a taste of Italy in the comfort of their own home. This dish is full of Mediterranean goodness and combines tender chicken with flavorful olives, fresh herbs, and a touch of garlic. Simple to make and packed with flavor, it’s ideal for a quick dinner or a special weekend meal. Whole Black Cerasola Olives from Vegetariano Italiano will give this dish a rich and authentic taste.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

1 can (400g) diced tomatoes (or Datterino Tomato Sauce)

4 garlic cloves, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)

½ cup dry white wine (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken

  • Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Sauté the vegetables

  • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

3. Add tomatoes and herbs

  • Pour in the diced tomatoes (or Datterino Tomato Sauce) and stir in the rosemary, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

4. Deglaze with wine (optional)

  • If using, pour the white wine into the pan and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine reduce slightly for about 2 minutes.

5. Simmer with chicken and olives

  • Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Add the Whole Black Cerasola Olives, ensuring they are evenly distributed around the chicken.
  • Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).

6. Finish and serve

  • Once the chicken is cooked, garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
  • Serve the chicken and olives with crusty bread, over pasta, or alongside roasted vegetables.

Serving

Tips for Success

  • Use quality olives: The secret to this dish is using high-quality olives, such as the Whole Black Cerasola Olives from Vegetariano Italiano, to ensure the best flavor.
  • Adjust the heat: If you like spicy dishes, feel free to add more red pepper flakes. For a milder version, you can leave them out.
  • Make it creamier: For a richer dish, stir in a tablespoon of butter or a splash of cream during the last few minutes of cooking.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work perfectly in this recipe. They might need a bit more cooking time to reach complete doneness.

What kind of olives should I use?

For authentic Italian flavor, use Whole Black Cerasola Olives. Their rich taste adds depth to the dish, but you can substitute with green olives.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe reheats well. Simply store the cooked dish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently over the stove.

Is white wine necessary?

No, the white wine is optional, but it adds a lovely depth of flavor. You can substitute it with chicken broth if you prefer.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra vegetables.

What should I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty Italian bread, pasta, or a simple green salad.

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