Chicken breast with olives

Chicken breast with olives: a delicious and comforting recipe

Who doesn't love a simple yet flavorful dish that delights the taste buds? Today's recipe, chicken breast with olives, is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests. With a combination of aromatic ingredients and a straightforward technique, this main course is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 chicken breast (approximately 500 g)
- 100 g black olives, pitted
- 1 medium onion
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Sweet paprika, to taste
- 1 tablespoon bell pepper paste (optional)
- 200 ml tomato broth

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by cleaning the chicken breast of any skin or fat. Cut it into cubes of about 2-3 cm so that it cooks evenly. Slice the olives and chop the onion. Peel and thinly slice the garlic. These steps are essential for the flavors to combine harmoniously.

2. Sautéing the onion:
In a medium pot, add a tablespoon of olive oil and 50 ml of water, then add the chopped onion. Let it simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. The onion will become translucent, releasing its sweet aroma.

3. Adding the ingredients:
Once the onion has softened, add the bell pepper paste (if using), the sliced garlic, the sliced olives, and the torn bay leaf. Mix the ingredients well to combine them.

4. Cooking the chicken breast:
Add the chicken breast cubes to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and sweet paprika to taste. Stir again to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the spices. Then, add enough water to cover the chicken breast. This step will ensure optimal tenderness of the meat.

5. Boiling:
Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure that the liquid does not reduce too much.

6. Finishing the dish:
Once the chicken breast is cooked and tender, add the tomato broth and let it boil for another 5 minutes without the lid. This step will intensify the flavors and give the dish an appetizing appearance.

7. Serving:
Serve the chicken breast with olives warm, alongside a portion of fluffy rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Drizzle a bit of olive oil on top and, if desired, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.

Useful tips:
- Use quality olives, as they will greatly influence the dish's flavor.
- If you want a spicier version, you can add a few slices of hot pepper.
- This recipe is easily adaptable: replace the chicken breast with chicken thighs or even turkey for a healthier option.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, and olives are rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins. Thus, this dish is not only delicious but also contributes to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use green olives instead of black?
Yes, you can use green olives, but the flavor of the dish will be different, having a slightly tangy note.

- What else can I add to the recipe?
You can add vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers to diversify the dish.

- Is this recipe suitable for reheating?
Yes, the dish can be cooked in advance and reheated, retaining its flavors.

Combine this recipe with a refreshing drink, such as a dry white wine or mint tea, to complete the culinary experience.

In conclusion, chicken breast with olives is a simple recipe but with a big impact on taste. Don't hesitate to try it and personalize it according to your preferences! Enjoy your meal!