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If you are craving a vibrant and wholesome meal that bursts with flavors, look no further than this Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry – Simple, Fresh, & Delicious Recipe. It’s a lively plate of juicy, perfectly spiced chicken intertwined with crisp, colorful vegetables and those irresistible Mediterranean notes of olives, lemon, and feta. This dish is quick to prepare yet manages to bring a delightful combination of textures and freshness that will brighten any weeknight dinner or impress guests without much fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in crafting the perfect balance of taste, texture, and vibrant color. The selection may seem simple, but each one adds a unique Mediterranean touch that makes this stir fry unforgettable.
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs: Thinly sliced for quick, even cooking and juicy tenderness.
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps develop beautiful caramelization.
- 1 medium red onion: Sliced to add sweetness and a tender crunch.
- 1 to 2 bell peppers: Any color works beautifully, providing sweetness and vibrant hues.
- 1 medium zucchini: Halved and sliced for a fresh, subtly crunchy vegetable bite.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes: Halved to release juicy bursts of flavor while cooking.
- 1/3 cup pitted Kalamata olives: Halved to sprinkle rich, salty, and slightly tangy notes.
- 2 to 3 cloves garlic: Minced for aromatic depth that wakes up the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic herb that evokes the essence of Mediterranean cooking.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Offers a mild smoky warmth that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds earthiness and a subtle hint of spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick if you love a little heat.
- 1 lemon: Zested and juiced to lift the entire dish with bright acidity.
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water: Helps create a saucy finish and prevents sticking.
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta: To scatter on top for creamy, salty goodness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal note and appealing color contrast.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste for seasoning balance.
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry – Simple, Fresh, & Delicious Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Begin by patting the chicken slices dry to ensure they brown nicely. Toss them with salt, pepper, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and half of your lemon zest. This marinade sits just long enough to infuse flavor without extra fuss, making the chicken savory with that sunshine-kissed aroma you expect from Mediterranean dishes.
Step 2: Prepare Your Vegetables
While the chicken rests, slice your red onion and bell peppers into strips, halve and slice the zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and Kalamata olives. Having everything ready to go keeps the cooking process swift and seamless, which is key for a stir fry that’s fresh and full of texture.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Spread the chicken evenly in a single layer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until it’s beautifully browned and nearly cooked through. This step locks in juices and builds layers of flavor. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Onions and Peppers
Add the remaining olive oil to your skillet and toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes until they start to soften and their natural sweetness emerges, creating a perfect base for the other vegetables.
Step 5: Add Zucchini and Garlic
Next, introduce the zucchini, cooking it just until crisp-tender. Stir in minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to bloom without becoming bitter. This step ensures every bite includes that signature garlicky warmth.
Step 6: Toss in Tomatoes, Olives, and Lemon
Add the cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives to the pan, then pour in the chicken broth and the rest of your lemon zest. Let it simmer gently for a minute or so until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, creating a lightly sauced mixture that envelopes everything in bright, savory goodness.
Step 7: Return Chicken and Finish Cooking
Slide the chicken back into the skillet along with any juices collected on the plate. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything, then toss gently for 1 to 2 minutes until the dish is piping hot and glossy. This fresh acidity perfectly balances the richness from the feta and olives, rounding out the dish beautifully.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and sprinkle crumbled feta and chopped parsley generously on top. The creamy feta adds a tangy, salty finish, while parsley offers a fresh herbal lift and that inviting pop of green color that makes this dish as pretty as it is delicious.
How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry – Simple, Fresh, & Delicious Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the dish’s presentation and flavor, add extra fresh parsley or basil leaves for a burst of color and fragrance. A few lemon wedges on the side invite guests to add more citrus brightness if they wish. A dusting of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving also perks up every bite.
Side Dishes
This stir fry shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with warm, fluffy couscous, a light Greek salad, or simply steamed rice to soak up the vibrant sauce. For a low-carb option, serve alongside cauliflower rice or roasted potatoes tossed with herbs for additional texture and heartiness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve this Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry in individual colorful bowls or on a large communal platter for sharing. You might even stuff the cooked ingredients into warm pita pockets or crunchy lettuce cups for a handheld twist that’s irresistible at casual dinners or lunch gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the stir fry to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, the flavors actually deepen, making for even tastier leftovers over the next 2 to 3 days. Just be sure to keep the feta separate if you want it to stay crumbly and fresh-looking.
Freezing
While you can freeze the stir fry, know that the texture of some of the vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers, may soften slightly upon thawing. If freezing, place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and consume within one month for best flavor and texture retention.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to revive the sauce. Be careful not to overheat to preserve the tender chicken and crisp vegetables. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to brighten the reheated dish.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic choice for this Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry – Simple, Fresh, & Delicious Recipe because they remain juicy and tender during cooking. Just slice them thinly to ensure even cooking times.
What can I substitute for Kalamata olives if I don’t have any?
If Kalamata olives are not available, green olives or even capers can provide a salty, briny punch that complements the other ingredients well. Just keep the quantities smaller if the alternatives are stronger in flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s a great option for meal prepping. The ingredients hold up nicely for several days in the fridge, and it reheats well. Just be sure to keep any fresh garnishes separate until serving for the best texture.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Definitely! The recipe includes optional red pepper flakes, but you can add more or even a dash of cayenne pepper if you like your meals with a bit more heat. Just adjust to your taste and go slow with the spices to maintain balance.
What wine pairs well with Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry?
A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé pairs beautifully with the vibrant, lemony flavors in this stir fry. Their acidity matches the brightness of the dish and won’t overpower the delicate chicken and vegetables.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry – Simple, Fresh, & Delicious Recipe that keeps me coming back time and time again. It’s an effortless way to bring a burst of sunshine and wholesome nutrition to the dinner table. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try it soon and watch how the fresh ingredients come together to create a dish full of joy and flavor that everyone will love.
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Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry – Simple, Fresh, & Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This vibrant Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry is a quick and healthy one-pan meal that combines juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and classic Mediterranean flavors like oregano, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. It’s perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner packed with colorful veggies and a tangy feta finish.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (for cooking chicken)
Vegetables and Extras
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more as needed
- 1 medium red onion, sliced
- 1 to 2 bell peppers, sliced (any color)
- 1 medium zucchini, halved and sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
- 2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Pat the thinly sliced chicken dry with paper towels. Season with a pinch of salt, black pepper, dried oregano, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and half the lemon zest. Let it sit while you prepare your vegetables to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Prepare Vegetables: Slice the red onion and bell peppers, halve and slice the zucchini, halve the cherry tomatoes, and halve the Kalamata olives. Have them ready for quick cooking.
- Cook Chicken: Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Spread the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they are browned and nearly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté Onions and Peppers: Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add Zucchini and Garlic: Stir in the sliced zucchini and cook until it is crisp-tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more to release its aroma.
- Add Tomatoes and Olives: Incorporate the halved cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives into the pan. Pour in the chicken broth and the remaining lemon zest. Let everything simmer together for about 1 minute until the tomatoes soften slightly.
- Combine Chicken and Finish: Return the cooked chicken along with any accumulated juices back to the pan. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and toss everything together for 1 to 2 minutes until heated through and glossy.
- Garnish and Serve: Turn off the heat and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the dish. Serve immediately hot for the best flavors.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for more juicy and flavorful meat or chicken breast for a leaner option.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a mild version.
- Substitute Kalamata olives with green olives if preferred.
- Serve this stir fry over cooked quinoa, couscous, or rice for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
