Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

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by Aileen Reed

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Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

This Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is a delightful and healthy option for busy weeknights. Combining tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and authentic Mediterranean flavors, it’s ready in just 30 minutes. This dish is versatile enough for family dinners or casual gatherings, making it a go-to for any occasion. The standout qualities include fresh herbs, zesty lemon, creamy feta, and a touch of olive oil that elevate this stir fry to new heights.

Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Packed with flavor: Fresh herbs and ripe vegetables come together to create a vibrant dish that will satisfy your taste buds.
  • Healthy and nutritious: This recipe is full of lean protein and colorful veggies, making it a wholesome choice for dinner.
  • Versatile: Enjoy it on its own or serve it over rice or noodles for a heartier meal.
  • One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan, allowing you to enjoy more time with family.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and prepare your ingredients. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spatula or wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

  • Skillet or frying pan: A good skillet allows for even heating and perfect searing of chicken while keeping the vegetables crisp.
  • Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for chopping ingredients quickly and safely.
  • Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts, making prep time faster and easier.
  • Spatula or wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
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Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 1.5 lbs Chicken breasts, boneless & skinless (Cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 3 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil, divided for cooking
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Vegetables

  • 2 medium Zucchini, sliced into half-moons
  • 2 Red bell peppers, diced into chunks
  • 1 large Red onion, sliced into strips
  • 2 cups Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

For Flavoring

  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tsp Dried oregano
  • 1 tsp Dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp Dried thyme
  • 1 Lemon, juice only

For Garnish

  • 0.5 cup Feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, optional garnish

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Prep Ingredients

Before cooking, ensure all ingredients are chopped and ready to go. This will make the cooking process efficient.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Sauté onions, garlic, zucchini, red bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, thyme, oregano, and basil until tender—approximately 4-5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Toss everything together gently to combine evenly.

Step 5: Finish with Lemon and Feta

Drizzle lemon juice over the mixture and stir in olives and crumbled feta cheese. Cook for an additional minute until heated through.

Now you’re ready to serve this delicious Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry! Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Serving your Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to complement this vibrant dish.

With a Fresh Salad

  • Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and olives drizzled with olive oil.
  • Spinach Salad: Baby spinach topped with sliced almonds, feta cheese, and a light lemon vinaigrette.

Over Rice or Quinoa

  • Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime juice and fresh cilantro for a zesty flavor.
  • Herbed Quinoa: Cooked quinoa mixed with parsley and lemon zest for a nutty pairing.

With Pita Bread

  • Warm Pita: Serve warm pita bread on the side for dipping into the stir fry juices.
  • Stuffed Pita: Fill pita pockets with leftover stir fry for a delightful sandwich option.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

  • Parsley Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for added color and freshness.
  • Basil Leaves: Add torn basil leaves just before serving to enhance the Mediterranean flavor.

How to Perfect Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

To ensure your Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry is absolutely delicious, follow these simple tips.

  • Bold seasoning: Don’t be shy with salt, pepper, and herbs. They enhance the flavors of chicken and veggies.
  • Even cooking: Cut vegetables and chicken into uniform sizes for even cooking throughout.
  • High heat cooking: Use high heat when sautéing to achieve that perfect sear on the chicken and keep veggies crisp.
  • Fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and ripe vegetables; they add vibrant flavors to your dish.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming; this helps retain texture and flavor.
  • Rest before serving: Allow the stir fry to rest for a few minutes after cooking to let flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Pair your Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry with these tasty side dishes that complement its flavors beautifully.

  1. Tzatziki Sauce: A cool yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and garlic; perfect as a dip or dressing.
  2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add depth to your meal.
  3. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs creates a flavorful side.
  4. Hummus Platter: A variety of hummus served with raw veggies or toasted pita chips makes a great appetizer.
  5. Lemon Herb Rice Pilaf: Aromatic rice pilaf cooked with lemon zest and fresh herbs enhances the overall meal experience.
  6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds crunch and freshness to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

  • Skipping ingredient prep: Prepare all ingredients before cooking. This helps in maintaining a smooth cooking flow and ensures even cooking.

  • Overcooking chicken: Cook chicken just until golden and no longer pink inside. Overcooked chicken becomes dry; use a meat thermometer for perfect results.

  • Neglecting seasoning: Properly season each layer of your dish. Seasoning at different stages enhances the flavors throughout the stir fry.

  • Using old vegetables: Fresh vegetables provide vibrant color and flavor. Always use fresh produce for the best taste and texture in your stir fry.

  • Not balancing flavors: Remember to balance flavors with acidity from lemon juice or vinegar. This brings out the freshness of the ingredients.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container.
  • Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

  • Place in a freezer-safe container.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

  • Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
  • Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warm.
  • Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe:

What can I serve with Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry?

Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry pairs well with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread. You can also serve it over a bed of greens for a lighter option.

Can I customize the vegetables in this Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or asparagus based on what you have on hand.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

To make a vegetarian version, replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and add more vegetables. Ensure you adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I store leftovers from this Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I use different proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or lamb according to your preference. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the protein used.

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry is not only quick and easy but also rich in flavor and nutrition. The versatility of this dish allows you to switch out vegetables or proteins based on personal preferences or seasonal availability. Give it a try and enjoy customizing it to suit your tastes!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry


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  • Author: Aileen
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Experience a burst of Mediterranean flavors with this quick and healthy Chicken Stir Fry! Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish combines tender chicken breast with an array of vibrant vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Infused with fresh herbs and zesty lemon juice, each bite is a delicious blend of taste and nutrition. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this one-pan meal requires minimal cleanup, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones. Serve it over rice or quinoa for a heartier option, and delight in the creamy feta that adds the perfect finishing touch.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 medium zucchinis
  • 2 red bell peppers
  • 1 large red onion
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 0.5 cup crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

  1. Prep all ingredients by chopping vegetables and cutting chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tbsp olive oil. Once hot, sear chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Remove from skillet.
  3. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and sauté onions, garlic, zucchini, red bell peppers until tender (4-5 minutes).
  4. Return chicken to the skillet; combine evenly with vegetables.
  5. Drizzle lemon juice over the stir fry; mix in olives and crumbled feta. Heat through for another minute before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (about 250g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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