Ready in: 40 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Sautéing · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.Quick Answer
This Creamy Mediterranean Chicken is a delightful dish of seared chicken breasts simmered in a luscious, creamy sauce enriched with spinach, feta, and tomatoes.As the crisp air of fall settles over New York City, I find myself craving the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, this Creamy Mediterranean Chicken recipe has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen, providing a comforting yet elegant dish perfect for gatherings with family and friends. Whether you're planning a cozy dinner or preparing for an upcoming holiday feast, this recipe promises to impress.
A Comforting Holiday Dish
This recipe brings the warm flavors of the Mediterranean into your home, perfect for those chilly fall evenings and festive gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously creamy sauce infused with Mediterranean flavors that will impress your guests.
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday celebrations.
- Versatile ingredients you can easily swap out based on your preferences or what's in season.
- Leftovers taste even better, making it a fantastic meal prep option.
- Pairs wonderfully with rice or crusty bread, ensuring you savor every drop of the rich sauce.
Ingredients
This Creamy Mediterranean Chicken recipe features simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together to create a delicious dish.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup baby spinach
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- Fresh basil, for garnish
How to Make Creamy Mediterranean Chicken (Step-by-Step)
This step-by-step guide will help you create a delightful Creamy Mediterranean Chicken that is perfect for any occasion.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels-a crucial step for achieving that beautiful golden sear. Season both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. As I sprinkle the spices, I can already envision the aromatic flavors coming together, creating a delightful base for the creamy sauce.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat, allowing it to shimmer for a moment. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet, listening for that satisfying sizzle. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The kitchen fills with a smoky, savory aroma-just heavenly!
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring gently to combine. Bring it to a simmer and then stir in the diced tomatoes, allowing the mixture to bubble and thicken slightly. It will transform into a luscious, creamy sauce.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Feta
Toss in the baby spinach and crumble the feta cheese into the skillet. I love watching the spinach wilt and the feta become melty, enriching the sauce further with that tangy, creamy burst of flavor. Gently stir until everything is combined, then return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
Step 5: Finish Cooking
Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing it to soak up all those delicious Mediterranean flavors. The center should have a slight jiggle, which is just what you want for optimal tenderness.
Step 6: Serve
Dish out the creamy, dreamy chicken, garnishing with sliced kalamata olives and fresh basil. I serve this with fluffy rice or crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the rich sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Searing Step: Searing the chicken is essential for flavor; don't rush to skip this part.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh ingredients, especially for the feta and tomatoes, to truly bring out the vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
- Cooking Too Quickly: Be patient with the simmering step; rushing it could result in a thin sauce that lacks depth.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For a Flavor Boost: Add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for added brightness and heat.
- Changing Up the Greens: Feel free to use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach if you prefer a more robust flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This dish reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or hosting.
Variations
- Use different cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella for a unique flavor.
- Swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a seafood or vegetarian version.
- Incorporate different vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
How to Serve
- Dish out the creamy chicken and garnish with sliced kalamata olives and fresh basil.
- Serve with fluffy rice or crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.
- Pair with a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared a day in advance; just reheat gently before serving.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain that creamy consistency.
- Freezing: This dish is not recommended for freezing, as the cream may separate upon thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
While testing this recipe, I was reminded of the magic of simplicity; the combination of quality ingredients and straightforward techniques can create something truly special. This dish has taught me that with just a few flavorful components, I can bring a taste of the Mediterranean right here to my NYC kitchen.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~400 calories · 30g protein · 10g carbs · 25g fat
Recipe by:
Creamy Mediterranean Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and in the same skillet, reduce the heat and add heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, baby spinach, and crumbled feta cheese. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 3-5 minutes before serving.
- Dish out the creamy chicken, garnishing with kalamata olives and fresh basil, and serve with rice or bread.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used in this recipe. They will add additional flavor and tenderness to the dish.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative in place of feta.
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce during cooking to increase the heat.
What can I serve with Creamy Mediterranean Chicken?
This dish pairs well with fluffy rice, crusty bread, or a fresh salad to complement the creamy flavors.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
While it's possible to freeze the leftovers, the texture of the cream sauce may be affected. It's best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of cooking.
