Chicken with rosemary and olives
Chicken with rosemary and olives – a savory and comforting recipe
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 75 minutes
Servings: 4
Chicken with rosemary and olives is a recipe that combines Mediterranean flavors with the simplicity of preparation, making it perfect for a family dinner or a special lunch. This recipe has deep roots in culinary traditions, where the chicken is enriched with aromatic herbs and fresh vegetables, bringing a full taste and enticing aroma. Inspired by classic recipes, this version is simple yet extremely tasty, and will surely become one of your favorites.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs (or chicken breast, according to preference)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 large tomatoes, peeled and diced
- 250 ml tomato paste (or tomato purée)
- 50 ml red wine
- 100-150 g green or black olives, pitted
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or fresh, if available)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation:
1. Preparing the chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken thighs (or breast, if you choose this option) with salt and pepper. Make sure to cover them evenly so that the flavors penetrate the meat well. In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until browned on both sides. This step is essential for sealing in the juices and giving it a crispy texture.
2. Sautéing the vegetables: Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the skillet and keep it warm. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and diced bell peppers. Sauté them for 5-6 minutes, until softened and translucent. This is when the flavors combine, and the onion becomes sweet.
3. Adding the wet ingredients: After the vegetables are cooked, add the red wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to evaporate the alcohol. Then, add the peeled and diced tomatoes, followed by the tomato paste. Mix all the ingredients well and season with salt, pepper, and rosemary. Allow the sauce to simmer over medium heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This sauce will become rich and aromatic, providing a special flavor to the chicken.
4. Baking: In a heatproof dish with a lid, place the chicken thighs and pour the prepared sauce over them. Cover the dish and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C for 45 minutes. This cooking method will allow the chicken to absorb the flavors from the sauce, making it tender and delicious.
5. Finishing the dish: About 10 minutes before removing the chicken from the oven, uncover the dish and add the olives and an extra splash of rosemary. This will allow the olives to warm up and release their flavor into the sauce. Continue cooking uncovered, to allow the sauce to thicken and become even more savory.
6. Serving: Once the chicken is cooked and aromatic, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You can accompany it with a side of rice or mashed potatoes, and a fresh salad will perfectly complement the meal.
Useful tips:
- Chicken varieties: You can use different parts of the chicken, such as wings or breast, but thighs are ideal for staying juicy.
- Fresh vs. dried rosemary: If you have fresh rosemary, use it. The aroma is much more intense and will give a fresher taste to the dish.
- Olives: Choose your favorite olives, whether green or black; each will bring a distinct flavor note.
Nutritional benefits:
Chicken is an excellent source of protein, and the vegetables add essential vitamins and fiber. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and olives contain healthy fats that can contribute to heart health.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other vegetables in the recipe?
Yes, you can add zucchini or eggplant, which pair very well with the flavors of this recipe.
2. Can I prepare the recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Then, when you're ready to cook, add the chicken and bake it.
3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a light red wine will perfectly complement the flavors of this dish. A mineral water with lemon will add a touch of freshness.
This chicken with rosemary and olives recipe is not only delicious but also simple to make. So, don't hesitate to try it and personalize it according to your preferences. Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!
Ingredients: chicken breast/chicken thighs 1 large onion bell pepper (one red and one green) 3 large tomatoes 250 ml tomato paste/broth 50 ml red wine 100-150 g green/black olives 1 teaspoon rosemary olive oil salt, pepper
