Skillet Sicilian Chicken Delight

Skillet Sicilian Chicken offers a vibrant and comforting meal inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Sicily. Featuring tender chicken thighs cooked in a flavorful sauce of tomatoes, olives, and herbs, this one-pan dish brings together bold flavors that are both satisfying and wholesome. Its rustic charm makes it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, delivering the essence of Mediterranean cooking right to your kitchen.

I started cooking this recipe on a rainy evening when I wanted something flavorful but fuss-free. Now it has become a weekly favorite that my family looks forward to, especially because of its satisfying layers of flavor.

Ingredients

• Four boneless skinless chicken thighs: stay juicy and flavorful throughout cooking
• One cup of cherry tomatoes: providing sweetness and vibrancy to the sauce
• A medium red onion: sliced thin for its mild, sweet depth
• Two cloves of minced garlic: delivering a fragrant and savory foundation
• Dried oregano: adding classic Sicilian warmth and earthiness
• Dried basil: for a fresh fragrant note that pairs perfectly with oregano
• Quarter cup of sliced pitted olives: offering a salty briny kick essential to the dish
• Quarter cup of capers: contributing a tangy brightness that livens the sauce
• Half a cup of chicken broth: to deglaze the pan and keep everything moist
• Two tablespoons of good quality olive oil: for richness and sautéing
• Salt and pepper: to enhance all flavors

Ingredient Notes

When choosing olives, select those that are plump and firm for the best texture. Fresh herbs like oregano and basil can also be substituted with fresh versions if you have them on hand for an even more vibrant flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Season chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor. Set aside while prepping other ingredients.

Sauté the Onions and Garlic:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced red onions and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until aromatic, stirring to prevent burning.

Brown the Chicken:

Place chicken thighs in the skillet and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove chicken and set aside.

Add the Tomatoes and Herbs:

To the same skillet, add the cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until tomatoes begin to burst and release juices, forming a flavorful base.

Combine Ingredients:

Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the olives, capers, and chicken broth. Gently stir to combine and simmer over low heat for 5 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.

Serve:

Check seasoning and adjust salt or pepper as needed. Serve the skillet Sicilian chicken warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Save Pin

Olives are my favorite part of this dish. They add such a distinct briny flavor that instantly transports me to the Mediterranean. I remember making this recipe with my family and how the aroma of olives and herbs filled the kitchen, creating a cozy, happy atmosphere that made the meal extra special.

Storage Tips

Allow the dish to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, warm it gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth to avoid drying out the chicken.

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs if you prefer a leaner cut, though they may be less juicy. Kalamata olives can replace green olives for a slightly richer flavor. For some heat, red pepper flakes can be added during cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy couscous, quinoa, or rustic Italian bread to soak up the sauce. A simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances the rich flavors beautifully. A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the meal perfectly.

Pro Tips

• Do not overcrowd the skillet when browning the chicken to ensure even cooking and crisp skin
• Toast dried herbs briefly in the skillet before adding liquids to deepen their flavor
• Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking so the flavors fully develop

Commonly Asked Questions

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth to retain moisture.

→ What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for juiciness and flavor, though breasts can be used for a leaner option.

→ How do olives and capers influence the flavor?

They add a salty, briny punch that brightens the dish and balances the sweetness of tomatoes and herbs.

→ Is it necessary to use a skillet for cooking?

A skillet helps achieve even browning and allows ingredients to blend flavors in one pan, but a heavy pan or sauté pan can work as well.

→ Can I add heat to the dish?

Absolutely, adding red pepper flakes during cooking introduces a gentle spicy kick without overpowering the delicate balance.

→ What sides complement this Sicilian chicken?

Light sides such as couscous, quinoa, or crusty Italian bread work well to soak up the flavorful sauce.