This Creamy Mediterranean Chicken Skillet is a tasty one-pan dish! Juicy chicken is cooked with colorful veggies like bell peppers and spinach, all in a creamy sauce that kicks up the flavor.
I love how easy it is to whip this up on busy nights—I just pop everything in the skillet and let it do its thing. Plus, the leftovers are great for lunch the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: I prefer using olive oil for its heart-healthy benefits and rich flavor. If you’re in a pinch, feel free to substitute with canola oil or butter.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great, but thighs can be juicier and more forgiving if you overcook them. Go for what’s available and best for your taste!
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms add a nice earthy flavor, but white mushrooms work just as well. If you want a unique twist, try using shiitake or portobello mushrooms instead.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream (like coconut cream), but keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich.
Capers: These add a briny flavor, but if you’re not a fan, substitute with chopped olives for a similar taste profile.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Just Right?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but here are some tips to help you out! Ensure an even cook by bringing chicken to room temperature before cooking.
- Heat the skillet well before adding oil to avoid sticking. Aim for medium-high heat.
- Don’t overcrowd the chicken in the pan. This ensures proper browning.
- Use a meat thermometer—150°F is the sweet spot for juicy chicken; it will continue cooking after removing it from heat.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Sauce?
If you find your sauce too thin, there are easy ways to thicken it. Let it simmer a little longer, stirring occasionally, to reduce the liquid. You can also stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to thicken it up!
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s sure to impress! Enjoy your time in the kitchen!
Creamy Mediterranean Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup capers, drained
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything up in the skillet. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Skillet:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This will create the perfect base for your chicken to cook.
2. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried oregano on both sides of the chicken breasts. This will make them flavorful and delicious!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced mushrooms and sauté for around 4-5 minutes until they become soft and tender. This step adds a fantastic depth to your dish!
5. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. You’ll want it just until fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
6. Stir in Spinach and Tomatoes:
Now, mix in the cherry tomatoes, drained capers, and fresh spinach. Cook this mixture until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes start to soften, which will take about 2-3 minutes.
7. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine everything into a creamy sauce.
8. Add Parmesan:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens up slightly.
9. Return the Chicken:
Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet, spooning some of that creamy sauce over the top. Warm the chicken through for about 2 minutes.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your dish with fresh parsley and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm, spooning the delicious sauce and veggies over the chicken.
Enjoy this creamy, flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish with your family and friends!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chicken breasts, you can substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option. You could also try turkey or pork, but keep in mind the cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the meat.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten it up, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or opt for low-fat Greek yogurt stirred in at the end for creaminess without as many calories. You can also add more vegetables—zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli work well!
What Can I Do with Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or a little cream if the sauce thickens too much. This dish is also great served over rice or pasta!
Is There a Good Substitute for Capers?
If you’re not a fan of capers, you can substitute them with roughly chopped green olives for a similar briny flavor. Alternatively, a splash of lemon juice can brighten the dish if you skip the capers altogether!
