Chicken dish with olives
Chicken with olives – A recipe that combines the aromatic flavor of chicken with the taste of olives, bringing a comforting and vibrant meal to the table. This classic recipe, with deep roots in culinary traditions, is perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests. Additionally, it is a simple, quick, and healthy recipe, ideal for those who want to cook at home without too much effort.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken thighs (approximately 600g)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large carrot
- 1 small tomato
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for extra color)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 3 bay leaves
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons of sweet paprika
- 3-4 tablespoons of tomato puree (or tomato paste)
- 150g black olives (preferably pitted)
- A handful of freshly chopped parsley
A brief history of the recipe
Chicken with olives is a versatile and flavorful recipe found in many variations across different culinary cultures. It is a testament to how simple ingredients can be transformed into delicious dishes through cooking techniques and creative combinations. Olives, known for their antioxidant properties and distinct taste, add complexity to this dish, while the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
Step by step: Preparing chicken with olives
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken thighs well and drying them with a paper towel. Cut the onion, carrot, bell pepper, and tomato into small cubes, and slice the garlic thinly. Ensure the olives are pitted and ready to use.
2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot or deep skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. These will form the aromatic base of your dish.
3. Adding the meat: Place the chicken thighs in the skillet and let them brown for about 5 minutes, turning them on all sides. This will help create a nice crust and seal in the juices.
4. The spices: Add the sweet paprika, chopped carrot, garlic, and bay leaves. Mix well to combine the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This is the stage where the dish begins to reveal its aroma!
5. Boiling: Pour enough water to cover the meat (approximately 300 ml). Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
6. Adding the puree and olives: Once the meat is cooked, add the tomato puree and olives. Let the dish simmer uncovered for another 3-5 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly and intensify all the flavors.
7. Finishing: Before serving, sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness and color. This not only adds a pleasant appearance but also a fresh taste that perfectly complements the flavors.
Serving suggestions
Chicken with olives pairs wonderfully with a side of plain rice or mashed potatoes. Additionally, a crisp green salad would perfectly complete the meal. If you want a more sophisticated combination, you can serve the dish with fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips and variations
- Ingredient variations: You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, to diversify the recipe. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can use green olives or even garlic-stuffed olives.
- The sauce: You can add a teaspoon of honey or sugar to give the sauce a sweet and sour note. This will balance the flavors and provide a unique taste.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like oregano or basil to add a Mediterranean touch.
Nutritional benefits
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, rich in B vitamins necessary for energy metabolism. Olives are full of antioxidants and healthy fatty acids that support heart health. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious!
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use a whole chicken?
Yes, you can use a whole chicken cut into pieces. The cooking time will change, so make sure all pieces are fully cooked.
2. Can I replace the olives with something else?
If you don’t like olives, you can try capers or even stuffed peppers to add an interesting note.
3. How can I store the dish?
The dish can be kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove before serving.
4. Can I freeze it?
Yes, you can freeze the dish, but it is recommended to consume it within 2-3 months to enjoy its quality.
This chicken with olives is truly a recipe that brings together a variety of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. Try it and let yourself be carried away by its unmistakable taste!
Ingredients: 4 boneless chicken thighs, 1 onion, carrot, tomato, bell pepper, garlic, 3 bay leaves, olive oil, salt, pepper, sweet paprika, fresh parsley, broth, 150 g black olives
