If you’re craving a vibrant meal that bursts with sunshine flavors and colorful veggies, then you will absolutely love this Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe. It’s a sensational mix of tender chicken, fresh garden vegetables, briny olives, and tangy feta cheese, all brought together with fragrant Mediterranean herbs and a splash of lemon juice. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is as quick as it is delicious, perfect for a family dinner or impressing friends without any fuss. Let me take you through every detail of how to whip up this delightful, wholesome stir fry that makes healthy eating feel like a celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key, and what’s lovely about this Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is how straightforward yet impactful each component is. Each ingredient adds its own unique texture, pop of color, or punch of flavor — creating a dish that’s balanced, fresh, and exciting to eat.
- 1.5 lbs Chicken breasts, boneless & skinless: Lean and tender, perfect for quick cooking and soaking up all those herbs.
- 3 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil, divided: Adds a rich, fruity base for sautéing and enhances the Mediterranean vibe.
- Salt & black pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to elevate the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- 2 medium Zucchini, sliced into half-moons: Offers a tender but slightly crunchy texture and a vibrant green hue.
- 2 Red bell peppers, diced into chunks: Sweetness and bright red color that livens up every bite.
- 1 large Red onion, sliced into strips: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed to translucent perfection.
- 2 cups Cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy bursts of acidity and color contrast that brighten the dish.
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved: Salty, briny bites that bring authentic Mediterranean flair.
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced: The aromatic foundation for that irresistible savory scent and flavor.
- ¼ cup Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Intense tomato flavor with a chewy texture that complements the fresh veggies.
- 2 teaspoons Dried oregano: Classic herb that evokes the essence of Mediterranean cooking.
- 1 teaspoon Dried basil: Sweet, slightly peppery herb that lifts the overall flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon Dried thyme: Earthy undertones to round out the herbal mix gracefully.
- 1 Lemon, juice only: A bright acidity that ties all the ingredients together and adds freshness.
- 0.5 cup Feta cheese, crumbled: Creamy, salty cheese that finishes the dish with signature Mediterranean richness.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, optional garnish: Adds a lovely green touch and herbaceous freshness just before serving.
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly and chopping them as specified—this prep stage sets you up for a smooth cooking flow. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly and quickly.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and half of the oregano, then add it to the skillet. Cook the pieces until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. This step locks in the juices and gives the chicken a lovely savory crust.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set it aside. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil, red onion slices, and minced garlic. Sauté them gently until the onions become translucent and aromatic, which creates a flavorful foundation for the veggies.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
Next, toss in the zucchini slices, red bell pepper chunks, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir and cook until the vegetables are tender but still have a bit of crispness – this keeps the dish lively and texturally interesting.
Step 5: Combine and Season
Return the chicken to the skillet and add cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, remaining oregano, dried basil, thyme, and fresh lemon juice. Stir everything well to combine, allowing the ingredients to meld in the heat until warmed through.
Step 6: Finish with Feta and Parsley
Turn off the heat and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese all over the stir fry. If you like, add fresh parsley as a garnish for a burst of color and herbaceous brightness. This finishing touch elevates the dish to authentic Mediterranean heights.
How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Besides the crumbled feta and parsley already added, you might consider a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few lemon wedges on the side to enhance the freshness. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts can add a delightful crunch and nutty aroma.
Side Dishes
This Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe pairs beautifully with fluffy couscous, warm pita bread, or a simple green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette. Rice pilaf or quinoa can also be excellent bases that soak up the delicious juices from the stir fry.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the stir fry in warm pita pockets or stuffed inside grilled flatbreads with a dollop of tzatziki for extra creaminess. Alternatively, plate it over a bed of roasted vegetables or spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb delight. Presentation can make this meal feel casual or elegant depending on your mood.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop a bit more overnight, making for a tasty next-day meal.
Freezing
This stir fry freezes well if you want to prep in advance. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, ideally portioned for individual servings. It will keep for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture of some vegetables may soften slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. If it seems dry, splash in a little water or extra olive oil to refresh the dish. Try to avoid overheating to preserve the fresh flavors and tender textures.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and richness to the stir fry. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces and cook thoroughly since thighs can be thicker.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you avoid adding any soy sauces or processed ingredients containing gluten. It’s a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for hearty veggies like eggplant, mushrooms, or firm tofu. Keep all the other ingredients and spices, and you’ll have a delicious, vegetable-packed Mediterranean stir fry.
What can I substitute for kalamata olives if I don’t like them?
If you’re not a fan of kalamata olives, you can try green olives or capers for a similar briny note. Alternatively, leave them out altogether and add a pinch more lemon juice to balance flavors.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is mild and not spicy, so it’s perfect for sensitive palates or children. If you prefer some heat, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper during cooking.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe. It’s simple, wholesome, and packed with flavors that feel like a sunny day on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this dish impresses without stress and invites everyone to enjoy a fresh, vibrant meal. Give it a try soon and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite in your cooking rotation!
Print
Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry is a vibrant and healthy dish packed with colorful vegetables, tender chicken, and bold Mediterranean flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that delivers a satisfying, well-balanced meal with a zesty lemon finish and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1.5 lbs Chicken breasts, boneless & skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
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
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
Other Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil, divided
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- ¼ cup Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 teaspoons Dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Dried basil
- ½ teaspoon Dried thyme
- 1 Lemon, juice only
- 0.5 cup Feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, optional garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Wash and chop all vegetables as directed—slice zucchini into half-moons, dice red bell peppers, slice red onion into strips, halve cherry tomatoes, mince garlic, and chop sun-dried tomatoes.
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil to ensure it’s hot enough for cooking the chicken.
- Cook Chicken: Season chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and half of the dried oregano. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Set Chicken Aside: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to keep warm.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet, then add sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook Vegetables: Add zucchini, red bell peppers, and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir and cook until vegetables are tender but still crisp, approximately 5 minutes.
- Combine and Heat Through: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, the remaining dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, and lemon juice. Stir everything to combine well and heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley over the top as a garnish before serving. Serve warm for a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and herbs based on your taste preference.
- Serve with warm pita bread or over cooked quinoa or couscous for a more filling dish.
- To make it gluten-free, just ensure any accompaniments you serve are gluten-free.
- Fresh herbs like oregano and basil can be used instead of dried for an even fresher flavor.
