Mediterranean Chicken Thighs with Olives and Capers
Indulge in the vibrant and bold flavors of the Mediterranean with this delectable dish of chicken thighs and legs simmered to perfection. The combination of tender chicken, roasted potatoes, and rich tomatoes creates a satisfying meal that's enhanced by the briny notes of olives and capers. Serve it over a bed of linguini or spaghetti to soak up the delicious sauce, and don’t forget some crusty rolls on the side to mop up every last bite. This recipe is perfect for gatherings and can be easily doubled to serve a larger crowd, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners and special occasions alike.
N/A
Servings
400
Calories
19
Ingredients
Ingredients
Bone-in chicken legs with thigh
3-4 lbs (skin on or off)
Flour
1/2 cup
Seasoning salt or white salt
1 teaspoon
Cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon ((adjust to suit heat level))
Garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper
to taste ((optional))
Olive oil
3-4 tablespoons
Whole tomatoes, cut up
1 (28 ounce) can ((with juice))
Medium potatoes, cut into smaller pieces
4-5
Large onion, sliced
1
Minced garlic
1 tablespoon ((or to taste))
Pitted ripe olives, halved
1 cup ((or to taste))
Dry red wine
1/2 cup
Capers
2 tablespoons ((optional))
Dried basil
1 teaspoon ((rubbed between fingers))
Dried oregano
1/2-1 teaspoon ((rubbed between fingers))
Cold water
1 tablespoon
Cornstarch
2-4 teaspoons
Parmesan cheese
to taste ((optional))
Instructions
1
In a large plastic bag, combine flour, seasoning salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and black pepper (if desired). Shake the bag to mix the spices thoroughly.
2
Add the chicken pieces to the bag one at a time, ensuring each piece is well coated in the flour mixture. Set aside.
3
In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces in batches, browning them on all sides for approximately 5-6 minutes per side. If necessary, add more oil to avoid sticking. Remove the browned chicken and set aside.
4
In the same Dutch oven, add the canned tomatoes (with their juice), chopped potatoes, sliced onion, minced garlic, red wine, capers (if using), and dried herbs. Stir to combine, then bring to a boil.
5
Reduce the heat, cover, and let the mixture simmer for about 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
6
Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the pot and transfer it to a large serving dish. Cover with foil to keep warm or place in an oven set to 200°F.
7
In a small bowl, whisk together cold water and cornstarch until smooth. Stir this mixture into the tomato and vegetable sauce in the Dutch oven. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens.
8
Pour the thickened sauce over the chicken in the serving dish. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
9
Enjoy your flavorful Mediterranean chicken dish with a side of pasta and crusty rolls.
Nutrition Information
22.5g
Fat
26.7g
Carbs
25g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean Chicken Thighs with Olives and Capers?
It is a flavorful dish consisting of chicken thighs and legs simmered with tomatoes, potatoes, olives, and capers, inspired by Mediterranean cuisine.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using 3-4 lbs of bone-in chicken legs with the thighs attached.
Can I leave the skin on the chicken?
Yes, the chicken can be prepared with the skin either on or off according to your preference.
How do I prepare the chicken coating?
Combine flour, seasoning salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and black pepper in a large plastic bag and shake to mix.
What is the first step in cooking the chicken?
After coating the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, brown them in olive oil in a large Dutch oven for 5-6 minutes per side.
What should I do if the chicken sticks to the pot?
You can add more olive oil to the Dutch oven as needed to prevent the chicken from sticking while browning.
What kind of tomatoes are used in the sauce?
The recipe uses one 28-ounce can of whole tomatoes, cut up, along with their juice.
How should the potatoes be prepared?
Use 4-5 medium potatoes and cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces before adding them to the pot.
Is wine necessary for this Mediterranean chicken dish?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of dry red wine to enhance the sauce's depth and flavor.
Are capers mandatory?
Capers are listed as optional, but they provide a signature briny flavor characteristic of Mediterranean dishes.
How should I add the dried basil and oregano?
It is recommended to rub the dried herbs between your fingers as you add them to release more flavor.
How long does the chicken need to simmer?
The mixture should simmer covered for about 40 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
How can I tell when the chicken is done?
The chicken is ready when it is no longer pink in the center and has reached a safe internal temperature.
How do I keep the chicken warm while finishing the sauce?
Place the cooked chicken in a serving dish covered with foil or in an oven set to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
How do I thicken the Mediterranean sauce?
Whisk together cold water and cornstarch, then stir the slurry into the sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
What is the ratio for the cornstarch slurry?
Mix 1 tablespoon of cold water with 2-4 teaspoons of cornstarch.
Can I add cheese to this dish?
Yes, you can optionally sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and sauce before serving.
What side dishes go well with this recipe?
It is best served over a bed of linguini or spaghetti, accompanied by crusty rolls to mop up the sauce.
Can this recipe be doubled for a large group?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for gatherings and can easily be doubled to serve more guests.
What are the nutritional facts for one serving?
One serving contains approximately 400 calories, 22.5g of fat, and 25g of protein.
How many carbohydrates are in this meal?
Each serving contains approximately 26.7g of carbohydrates.
What type of olives should I use?
The recipe suggests 1 cup of pitted ripe olives, halved, but you can adjust the amount to taste.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder in the coating and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic in the sauce.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
Yes, you can adjust the 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to suit your preferred heat level.
Is this considered a one-pot meal?
Yes, the majority of the cooking is done within a single large Dutch oven.
What kind of onion is used?
The recipe specifies using one large onion, sliced.
What kind of oil is best for browning the chicken?
Olive oil is recommended to maintain the Mediterranean flavor profile.
Can I use salt substitutes?
The recipe allows for either seasoning salt or standard white salt depending on your dietary needs.
Is the black pepper mandatory?
No, black pepper is listed as optional and can be added to taste.
What is the total number of ingredients?
This recipe utilizes 19 distinct ingredients to create its complex flavor.