Oh my goodness, friends, do I have a treat for you today! I’m talking about Garlic Chicken with Olives—it’s a gorgeous dish that not only tastes heavenly but practically cooks itself! Every time I make this recipe, I feel like I’m hosting a fancy dinner party, even if I’m just having a quiet night at home.
I love this recipe for so many reasons. First of all, garlic! Can we just take a moment to appreciate garlic? It becomes this sweet, caramelized delight in the oven, wrapping the chicken in a cozy, flavorful blanket. Plus, olives give it that Mediterranean flair that transports me straight to a sunlit terrace overlooking the sea. This dish is perfect for impressing guests or for just treating yourself after a long day—I promise you won’t regret trying it!
What’s in Garlic Chicken with Olives?
Let’s talk about the ingredients that make this dish as comforting as it is delicious:
Chicken Thighs: I’m using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender while getting beautifully crispy in the oven. If you prefer chicken breasts, they’ll work too but might need a shorter cooking time.
Garlic: Four cloves of minced garlic might sound like a lot, but believe me, it’s just the right amount to create that robust flavor!
Mixed Olives: I adore a mix of green and Kalamata olives for some diversity in flavor. You can usually find them in your grocer’s deli section. The briny taste adds so much depth to the dish.
Olive Oil: Essential for marinating the chicken and helping with that crispy skin, I usually opt for extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor.
Dried Oregano and Thyme: These herbs bring a beautiful herbal note to the dish. If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to substitute!
Salt and Pepper: Classic seasoning to elevate all the flavors.
Lemon: I love adding the juice and halves to this dish. It brightens everything up and cuts through the richness of the chicken and olives.
Fresh Parsley: Not just for looks! A sprinkle of this at the end adds freshness and a pop of color.
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Is Garlic Chicken with Olives Good for You?
Now, let’s dive into a few health benefits of our lovely ingredients!
Chicken Thighs: While they’re richer in fat than chicken breasts, they also provide loads of flavor and are high in protein, which makes them very satisfying.
Olive Oil: Packed with healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, olive oil is great for heart health. Just remember to keep portion sizes in check!
Garlic: Not only does it ward off vampires (just kidding!), but garlic has awesome health benefits, including boosting your immune system and having anti-inflammatory properties.
Olives: These little gems are rich in antioxidants and healthy fats. Plus, they add a unique flavor that makes everything better!
However, if you’re watching your sodium intake, keep in mind that olives can be a bit salty, so use them wisely!
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Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this scrumptious dish for about 4 servings:
– 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup mixed olives (green and Kalamata), pitted
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, juiced (including the lemon halves)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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How to Make Garlic Chicken with Olives?
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This gets the oven nice and hot for that crispy chicken skin we’re looking for!
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until you have a lovely marinade.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Let those flavors mingle for at least 30 minutes—you can even let them marinate overnight for extra flavor!
4. Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up in a large oven-safe skillet or a baking dish. Drizzle any leftover marinade over the top for good measure.
5. Scatter the mixed olives around the chicken, making sure to use every last one of those flavor bombs. Squeeze the lemon juice over everything, and don’t forget to toss in those lemon halves!
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to seal in all that juiciness. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and voilà!
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Serving Suggestions for Garlic Chicken with Olives
Alright, friends, here’s a little tip: serve this dish warm with some crusty bread! Trust me, it’s perfect for soaking up all those delicious olive and garlic-infused juices. You can also pair it with a simple green salad for a light and fresh complete meal. Oh, and if you feel adventurous, a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a delightful twist!
I hope you give this Garlic Chicken with Olives a try! It’s become a staple in my kitchen because it’s simple but oh-so-satisfying. When you do make it, please let me know how it turns out, or if you have any delicious twists of your own! Happy cooking, my friends!
