Name: Bold Mediterranean Braised Chicken with Olive-Tomato Sauce (Tender, Chew-Friendly)
Prep time: 40 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, finely diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 roasted red bell pepper, diced (jarred or homemade); 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped; 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes (canned); 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1/2 lemon; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Bold Mediterranean Braised Chicken with Olive-Tomato Sauce (Tender, Chew-Friendly)

CrushedLemon1034

This Mediterranean-inspired braised chicken is designed to be both bold in flavor and exceptionally tender—perfect for anyone who loves vibrant tastes but needs something easy to chew. Briny olives, smoky paprika, and sweet roasted pepper meld into a luscious tomato sauce that gently cooks the chicken until it’s meltingly soft. The finished dish is deeply savory, brightened with lemon, and perfect for spooning over soft polenta, mashed potatoes, or rice if desired. It’s comfort food with a Mediterranean soul, and every bite is effortless to enjoy.

Ingredients

Instructions

Pat chicken thighs dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
In a wide skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until very soft, about 5 minutes.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add chicken thighs to the pan and sear gently on both sides until lightly golden, about 2-3 minutes per side (they don't need to be cooked through).
Add diced roasted red bell pepper, chopped olives, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, cumin, and lemon zest. Stir to combine.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, turning chicken occasionally, until thighs are fork-tender and easily fall apart.
Remove lid, stir in lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Shred or break up chicken into bite-sized pieces with a spoon for easy eating. Spoon sauce generously over chicken.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.