Are you ready to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast? Look no further! This region is renowned for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and rich culinary traditions. And what better way to experience it than through the star of the show: chicken. In this article, we’ll dive into 20 mouthwatering Mediterranean chicken recipes that will leave you wanting more.
From classic souvlaki to innovative wraps, and from hearty stews to refreshing salads, these dishes showcase the best of Mediterranean cuisine’s bold flavors and simplicity. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find inspiration in these easy-to-follow recipes that blend fresh herbs, citrusy zests, and aromatic spices.
Let’s start our culinary journey through the Mediterranean with some sizzling hot skewers and creamy soups. Stay tuned for more as we explore the flavors of this incredible region!
Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken Skewers
Experience the bright flavors of the Mediterranean with these zesty chicken skewers, infused with lemon zest and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, oregano, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill or broil skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Style Mediterranean Chicken Souvlaki
Experience the flavors of Greece with this classic souvlaki recipe, featuring juicy chicken skewers smothered in a tangy tzatziki sauce and served with warm pita bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 4-6 pita breads
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with tzatziki sauce, pita bread, and garnish with parsley or dill.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Olive Tagine
A flavorful and aromatic North African-inspired stew that combines the richness of chicken with the brininess of olives, perfect for a cozy dinner or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken, olives, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Rosemary Roasted Mediterranean Chicken
Savor the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with this aromatic roasted chicken dish, featuring garlic, rosemary, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from the oven and brush with lemon juice.
7. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
Mediterranean Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Summary: This flavorful recipe combines chicken, Mediterranean spices, and bell peppers to create a delicious and nutritious main dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until chicken is browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked rice, feta cheese, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Sun-Dried Tomato Mediterranean Chicken Pasta
A flavorful and aromatic pasta dish that combines the richness of sun-dried tomatoes with the zest of Mediterranean herbs, all wrapped up in a satisfying chicken and pasta combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as parsley, oregano, thyme)
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, mixed greens, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta with chicken mixture; toss to coat.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Feta Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of Greece and Spain with succulent chicken, crumbly feta cheese, and a hint of citrus. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper; bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and olives.
4. Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add to the salad.
5. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad; toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Vegetables
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this easy and delicious one-pan recipe. This dish combines tender chicken, crispy vegetables, and aromatic spices for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
4. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with vegetables.
7. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Hummus Wrap
A flavorful wrap filled with juicy chicken, creamy hummus, crunchy veggies, and fresh herbs, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Marinate chicken breast in olive oil, lemon juice, olives, artichoke hearts, and garlic for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill or bake the chicken until cooked through.
4. Spread hummus on tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Add mixed greens, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced grilled chicken on top of hummus.
6. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in sides and roll into a neat wrap.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (depending on cooking method)
Spicy Harissa Mediterranean Chicken Thighs
Spicy Harissa Mediterranean Chicken Thighs Recipe
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful recipe that combines the bold heat of harissa with the bright, citrusy notes of Mediterranean cuisine. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup harissa paste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, harissa paste, garlic, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large bowl and toss with the marinade until they are fully coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Couscous Bowl
Experience the warm flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty bowl, featuring tender chicken, fluffy couscous, and a medley of colorful vegetables. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Transfer to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In the same pan, add diced bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add canned tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan and stir to combine.
6. To assemble the bowls, place cooked chicken on top of couscous, then spoon the vegetable mixture over the chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Mediterranean Chicken and Artichoke Bake
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the warmth of Mediterranean herbs with the sweetness of artichokes, all wrapped up in a crispy chicken package.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 (14 oz) can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Top each breast with chopped artichoke hearts, crumbled feta cheese (if using), and shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Chickpea Stew
Mediterranean Chicken and Chickpea Stew: A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender chicken, creamy chickpeas, and aromatic spices for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Grilled Mediterranean Chicken with Tzatziki Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with this refreshing grilled chicken dish paired with a cool and creamy tzatziki sauce. Perfect for a warm summer evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine grated cucumber, yogurt, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir to combine.
5. Serve grilled chicken with tzatziki sauce spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Eggplant Parmesan
This recipe combines the flavors of Greece and Italy with a twist on traditional chicken parmesan, adding eggplant for a meatless option. The result is a deliciously aromatic dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs, feta cheese, parsley, and garlic.
3. Dip chicken breasts in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Assemble parmesan by placing chicken on one half of a baking dish, topping with marinara sauce, and finishing with mozzarella cheese.
7. Top with eggplant slices; cover with aluminum foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this Mediterranean-inspired twist on classic stuffed shells. Tender chicken, wilted spinach, and tangy feta cheese come together in a flavorful filling that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, spinach, feta cheese, olives, garlic, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the Mediterranean filling, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Top shells with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Pesto Flatbread
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this savory flatbread, packed with juicy chicken, creamy pesto, and fresh herbs. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 pre-made or homemade flatbread crust (about 12 inches in diameter)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread pesto sauce evenly over the flatbread crust.
4. Top with chicken pieces, parsley, and feta cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and flatbread is crispy.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed tomatoes, this recipe combines the warmth of Mediterranean spices with the nutty goodness of quinoa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides.
3. In a bowl, mix together quinoa, chicken, feta, parsley, garlic, olive oil, paprika, and oregano.
4. Stuff each tomato with the quinoa mixture and place on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Zucchini Fritters
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with these crispy fritters filled with juicy chicken, tender zucchini, and a hint of herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, finely chopped
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, zucchini, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, egg, olive oil, and oregano.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Using wet hands, shape mixture into small patties.
5. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Lemon Soup
Warm up with a bowl of sunshine! This vibrant soup combines the flavors of the Mediterranean, featuring juicy chicken, nutty orzo, and a burst of lemony goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 lemon, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the orzo, broth, water, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with these 20 mouth-watering chicken recipes! From classic souvlaki and skewers to hearty stews and stuffed bell peppers, this collection has something for every taste. Discover the perfect blend of herbs, spices, and fresh ingredients that define the region’s cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping weekend meal, these recipes are sure to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast.
Leave a Reply