Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry
A comforting and flavorful stir fry featuring juicy chicken, colorful vegetables, and Mediterranean herbs, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces Thighs stay juicier; breasts are leaner.
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Adds silkiness and that Mediterranean aroma.
- 1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced Sweet color and crunch.
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced Caramelizes and adds depth.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved Burst of sweetness.
- 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved Salty, briny balance.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Aromatic backbone.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Subtle smokiness.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano Classic Mediterranean herb.
- 1 lemon zest and juice Brightens everything.
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons capers (optional) Poppy tang.
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta (optional) Adds creamy, tangy richness; substitute nutritional yeast for a dairy-free 'cheesy' note.
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and half the lemon zest. Let them sit while you heat the pan.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
Cooking
- Add the chicken in a single layer and sear, stirring occasionally, until just golden and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes). Remove to a plate.
- In the same skillet, add a touch more oil if needed and toss in the sliced onion and bell pepper. Sauté until they soften and start to caramelize, about 4 minutes.
- Add garlic, cherry tomatoes, and capers (if using). Cook until tomatoes begin to burst and release their juices.
- Return the chicken to the pan, stir in the olives, oregano, remaining lemon zest, and lemon juice. Simmer for 1–2 minutes to marry the flavors.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Finish with crumbled feta and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil. Serve immediately.
Notes
Tips: For a smoky flavor, add cayenne or a smoked chili; for vegetarian, swap chicken for tofu; serve over grains for a heartier meal.