There’s something truly delightful about the vibrant flavors of a Mediterranean kitchen, and this One-Pan Chicken Provencal with Tomatoes and Olives captures it perfectly. Imagine the tender juiciness of chicken melded with sun-ripened tomatoes, briny olives, and aromatic herbs, all cooked together in just one pan. This dish effortlessly brings the taste of Provence into your home, serving as a delicious way to showcase the best of summer produce while being hearty enough for any season.
I discovered this recipe on a sunny afternoon, my kitchen filled with the intoxicating aroma of garlic sizzling away. It struck me as the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when time is short, but I still crave something comforting and satisfying. The beauty of Chicken Provencal lies not just in its taste but also in its simplicity—minimal prep and cleanup make it a real crowd-pleaser. So grab your skillet, and let’s dive into a dish that serves as both a nourishing meal and a moment of culinary joy!
Why will you love Chicken Provencal?
Simplicity at Its Best: This one-pan dish means less mess and faster cleanup, perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich, Savory Flavor: Fresh tomatoes and olives create a deeply satisfying, Mediterranean-inspired taste that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Enjoy it as a quick weekday meal or dress it up for special guests—it’s a recipe that fits any gathering.
Nutrient-Packed Goodness: With wholesome ingredients like chicken and fresh herbs, you can indulge in comfort food without the guilt.
Quick and Easy: In under 40 minutes, you can have a flavorful dinner on the table, making it a great option for last-minute cooking.
Crowd Appeal: Your family and friends will love this delightful dish, making it a sure hit at dinner parties and family gatherings.
Chicken Provencal Ingredients
• Perfect for a hearty one-pan meal.
For the Chicken
- Chicken (4 to 5 pieces, bone-in, skin-on) – Ensures juiciness and flavor; can substitute with chicken thighs or breasts if needed.
For the Base
- Onion (1, diced) – Adds a sweet, aromatic depth; no substitutions required as it enhances flavor.
- Garlic (1 large clove, minced) – Boosts savoriness with fresh garlic being the best option.
For the Sauce
- Diced Tomatoes (2 cups or 8 oz. cherry tomatoes) – Forms the sauce base and provides acidity; fresh is ideal in summer while canned works in winter.
- White Wine (1/3 cup) – Adds complexity and acidity to the sauce; chicken broth can be a substitute.
For the Extras
- Kalamata or Green Olives (1/3 cup, pitted and halved) – Introduces brininess and texture; feel free to switch to black olives for a different flavor.
- Fresh Basil (1/4 cup, chiffonade) – Enhances brightness; oregano or thyme can be used if basil isn’t available.
- Capers (1 tbsp) – Provide a tangy flavor boost; they can be omitted if unavailable.
For Cooking
- Olive Oil – Essential for browning the chicken and enriching the dish.
- Sea Salt – Elevates the overall flavor of the dish.
- Freshly Ground Pepper – Adds a subtle heat to the recipe.
This Chicken Provencal recipe is a delightful showcase of summer flavors, making it a must-try for any home chef!
How to Make Chicken Provencal
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Prep Chicken: Begin by seasoning your chicken pieces with sea salt and freshly ground pepper. Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken, browning each side for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
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Sauté Aromatics: Once the chicken is nicely browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same pan, add the diced onion and sauté until it softens and becomes translucent, around 3-4 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Build Sauce: Now, add the diced tomatoes and white wine to the skillet. Let the mixture simmer gently until the tomatoes start to break down and become tender, about 5-7 minutes. Carefully nestle the browned chicken back into the pan, cover, and let it cook through for approximately 25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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Add Final Ingredients: After the chicken has cooked, remove it from the pan again. Stir in the halved olives, capers, and chiffonaded basil. Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the delicious sauce over it, and let it warm through for a couple of minutes before serving.
Optional: Serve with crusty French bread to soak up the savory sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chicken Provencal Variations
Explore delightful twists on this timeless dish to create your perfect version. Let your imagination and taste buds guide you!
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Anchovy Boost: Add 3-4 chopped anchovy fillets for an irresistible umami flavor that elevates the dish.
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Tomato Swaps: Use roasted tomatoes in place of fresh for a deeper, slightly sweet flavor in the sauce.
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Herb Mix: Experiment with fresh oregano or thyme instead of basil for a fragrant, earthy twist to your Chicken Provencal.
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Spicy Kick: Stir in red pepper flakes to the sauce while cooking for a delightful, warm heat that lingers.
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Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to the sauce for a bright burst of freshness that enhances the Mediterranean flavors.
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Creamy Touch: Stir in a splash of heavy cream toward the end of cooking for a luxurious, creamy consistency in the sauce.
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant and zucchini for a plant-based version bursting with flavor.
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Serving Variants: Instead of traditional rice or bread, serve over a bed of couscous or quinoa for a nutty texture and wholesome addition.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Provencal
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Provencal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen, making it even more delicious as leftovers.
Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the Chicken Provencal in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before sealing.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Avoid high heat, as it may dry out the chicken.
Airtight Storage: Always ensure your container is tightly sealed to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn when storing Chicken Provencal.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Provencal (With Tomatoes and Olives) are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop and prep all your ingredients—chop the onions, mince the garlic, and halve the olives—up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them in airtight containers. Additionally, you can brown the chicken and prepare the sauce (combining tomatoes and white wine) ahead, storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, add the browned chicken, and let it cook through for about 25 minutes until beautifully infused with flavor. This way, you’ll have a delicious, comforting dinner ready with minimal effort, just as delightful as when made fresh!
Expert Tips for Chicken Provencal
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Choose the Right Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken retains moisture and flavor. Avoid boneless cuts for a more succulent result.
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Perfect Your Sauce: Simmering the tomatoes with white wine allows natural sweetness to develop. Don’t rush this step; allow flavors to meld beautifully.
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Adjust Acidity: If the sauce tastes too acidic, a pinch of sugar can balance it out. Tasting as you go ensures a harmonious flavor in your Chicken Provencal.
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Don’t Skip Resting: Letting the chicken rest after cooking keeps it juicy. A few minutes off the heat enhances both texture and taste.
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Experiment with Herbs: Fresh basil is delightful, but feel free to substitute with oregano or thyme for different flavor profiles in your Chicken Provencal.
What to Serve with Chicken Provencal?
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with these delightful pairing options that elevate your dining experience.
- Crusty French Bread: Perfect for soaking up the savory tomato and olive sauce, this bread adds a comforting, rustic touch to your meal.
- Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: The freshness of a simple salad provides a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the Chicken Provencal, balancing the meal beautifully.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture complements the dish’s savory elements, making each bite a delightful experience.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies add color, nutrition, and a slightly caramelized sweetness, which pairs wonderfully with the herby chicken.
- Jasmine Rice: This light and fluffy texture soaks up the sauce, ensuring you enjoy every drop of flavor in the dish.
- Herbed Quinoa: A nutty flavor and added protein make quinoa a wholesome side, allowing the chicken’s richness to shine while adding a chewy texture.
- Sangiovese or Chianti Wine: A glass of these red wines enhances the meal, deepening the Mediterranean experience with their fruity notes and acidity.
- Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this refreshing option cleanses the palate and offers a light finish, making it a perfect end to a delightful dinner.
Chicken Provencal (With Tomatoes and Olives) Recipe FAQs
What type of tomatoes should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using fresh, ripe tomatoes during the summer. However, if you’re making this dish in the colder months, canned diced tomatoes are an excellent alternative. Look for high-quality brands to ensure depth of flavor.
How do I store leftover Chicken Provencal?
To keep your Chicken Provencal fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld beautifully, so don’t hesitate to enjoy those delicious leftovers!
Can I freeze Chicken Provencal?
Very! To freeze, let your Chicken Provencal cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What should I do if my chicken isn’t browning properly?
If your chicken isn’t browning, make sure you’re not overcrowding the pan. Give each piece enough space to develop a nice golden crust by cooking them in batches if needed. Also, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken; medium-high heat is ideal.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! If you or someone you’re serving has allergies to olives or capers, you can easily omit these ingredients. Additionally, ensure the white wine is suitable for cooking, or substitute with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option. If you have pets, be cautious with any leftover bones as they can splinter and pose a risk.
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
While boneless chicken can be used, I highly recommend sticking with bone-in, skin-on pieces for the best flavor and moisture. Boneless cuts can dry out more easily, so to assist in retaining juiciness, try marinating the chicken or adding extra olive oil if you choose boneless.
Easy Chicken Provencal with Tomatoes and Olives in One Pan
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season chicken pieces with sea salt and freshly ground pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown chicken for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove chicken and add diced onion to the skillet, sautéing until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add diced tomatoes and white wine to the skillet, simmering gently for 5-7 minutes. Nestle browned chicken back in and cover, cooking for approximately 25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove chicken again, stir in halved olives, capers, and chiffonaded basil. Return chicken to the pan and let warm through before serving.
