Delicious Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry

Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of the Mediterranean right to your table. It combines tender chicken with colorful fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, making a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, it captures the sunny, fresh flavors of Mediterranean cooking in under 30 minutes.

I first made this dish when I wanted something bright and healthy after a long day. The burst of lemon and oregano combined with crisp veggies made it an instant favorite at our dinner table.

Ingredients

• boneless skinless chicken breast: One pound boneless skinless chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure quick and even cooking
• red bell pepper: One medium red bell pepper adds sweet crunch and beautiful color to brighten the dish
• yellow onion: One medium yellow onion thinly sliced for a sweet and aromatic base
• zucchini: One cup zucchini sliced for a fresh mild flavor and tender texture
• cherry tomatoes: One cup cherry tomatoes halved to bring juiciness and a pop of natural sweetness
• garlic: Three cloves garlic minced to provide robust and savory depth
• olive oil: Two tablespoons olive oil for sautéing brings rich flavor and healthy fats essential to Mediterranean cuisine
• dried oregano: One teaspoon dried oregano is the key herb that lends authentic Mediterranean aroma and taste
• paprika: One teaspoon paprika adds subtle smokiness and enhances color
• Salt and pepper: Salt and pepper to taste to bring all the components together
• Fresh parsley: Fresh parsley chopped for garnish adds a burst of freshness and a pretty finishing touch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

Wash and chop all vegetables carefully. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt pepper paprika and oregano to build flavor right from the start.

Heat the Skillet:

Warm the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it shimmers indicating it is hot enough for a good sear on the chicken.

Cook the Chicken:

Place chicken pieces in the skillet in a single layer. Cook about five to seven minutes turning occasionally until golden brown and fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Sauté the Vegetables:

Remove chicken and set aside. In the same skillet add sliced onion and garlic cooking until onions turn translucent about two to three minutes. Add red bell pepper and zucchini stirring constantly until vegetables are tender but still crisp about four to five minutes.

Combine Everything:

Return chicken to the skillet and add halved cherry tomatoes. Stir to combine and let flavors meld for about two minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve and Garnish:

Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. This adds color and a fresh vibrant finish to the dish.

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Of all the ingredients I love how oregano elevates the dish giving it an unmistakably Mediterranean flair. One evening after a family dinner, my kids asked for this meal three nights in a row, which says a lot about its charm and taste.

Storage Tips

Cool the stir fry completely before storing it in an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to three days. To reheat warm in a skillet over medium heat stirring occasionally or microwave in a covered dish for two to three minutes stirring halfway through.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try turkey or beef if you want a different protein experience. You can also swap zucchini for asparagus or extra bell peppers. For cooking oil avocado oil works well with a higher smoke point. Herbal variations like thyme or basil add an interesting twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside fluffy couscous or nutty quinoa for a heartier meal. Pairing with a fresh Greek salad or dollops of tzatziki sauce will add brightness and creaminess. A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon makes for refreshing drink pairings.

Cultural Context

This stir fry blends the cooking technique common in Asian cuisine with the vibrant ingredients and herbs typical of Mediterranean cuisine. It celebrates the Mediterranean love for fresh produce olive oil and fragrant herbs in a way that feels approachable for any home kitchen.

Pro Tips

• Make sure your skillet is hot before adding chicken to get perfect sear and to lock in juices
• Do not overcrowd the pan so ingredients cook evenly and vegetables stay crisp
• Toast the dried oregano briefly in the hot oil to really release its aromatic oils and deepen flavor

Commonly Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute other proteins for chicken?

Yes, turkey or beef can be used instead of chicken, adjusting cooking times accordingly for best texture and doneness.

→ What vegetables work well in this stir fry?

Bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and onions are ideal for their colors and textures, but asparagus or olives add nice variations.

→ How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Cook chicken over medium-high heat just until golden and cooked through; avoid overcooking to keep it tender and juicy.

→ What herbs and spices enhance the flavors here?

Dried oregano, thyme, paprika, and fresh parsley provide aromatic depth and subtle smokiness that complement the Mediterranean profile.

→ Is olive oil important in this dish?

Olive oil lends a rich, fruity flavor and healthy fats, making it important for authentic taste and successful sautéing.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well and can be stored refrigerated for up to three days for easy busy-day meals.