Discovering Mediterranean Flavors
My Favorite is Instant Pot Mediterranean Chicken Delight and I love to cook, I’ve always loved Mediterranean food—the vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and bold flavors. But it wasn’t until I took a trip to Greece that I truly fell in love with the combination of olives, capers, and yogurt in savory dishes. I remember sitting at a small seaside café, watching the sunset while enjoying a plate of grilled chicken with a tangy yogurt sauce and briny olives. That moment stuck with me, and I knew I had to bring those flavors into my own kitchen.
Making It Easy with the Instant Pot
Back home, I wanted to recreate that taste, but with a busy schedule, I needed something quick and simple. That’s when I thought of using my Instant Pot. It’s my go-to tool when I want to make something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. I experimented with a few different ingredients, tweaking the recipe until I found the perfect balance of tender chicken, salty olives, and the fresh kick of lemon and herbs.
A Flavorful and Healthy Choice
What I love most about this recipe is how it’s both delicious and healthy. The chicken thighs are juicy and full of flavor, while the olives and capers give a nice salty punch. The yogurt sauce adds creaminess without being heavy, making this dish feel light and refreshing. Plus, it’s keto-friendly and low in carbs, so it’s a great option when I’m looking for something healthy that still feels like comfort food.
A Hit at Dinner Parties
Every time I serve this Mediterranean Chicken Delight, it’s a hit. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a small gathering with friends, people always ask for the recipe. I think it’s the combination of bold flavors and how easy it is to make that really stands out. And with the Instant Pot doing most of the work, I can spend more time enjoying the meal with my loved ones, just like that evening by the sea in Greece.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Instant Pot Mediterranean Chicken Delight
- Make sure to thoroughly brown the chicken skin before pressure cooking. This step enhances flavor and helps seal in the moisture, ensuring juicy and tender meat.
- When sautéing the garlic and adding the olive mixture, scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds depth and richness to the sauce, incorporating those caramelized flavors from the chicken.
- The combination of olives, capers, and white wine vinegar brings a bright and tangy flavor. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of vinegar slightly.
- If the yogurt sauce seems too thick, add a splash of water or lemon juice to achieve your desired consistency. This sauce complements the rich chicken perfectly and adds a refreshing, creamy element.
- For those avoiding dairy, coconut yogurt is a great replacement that still provides creaminess without overpowering the Mediterranean flavors.
- Don’t skip the fresh parsley and mint as garnishes. They bring a burst of freshness to the final dish, contrasting beautifully with the richness of the chicken and olive mixture.
- This dish is versatile—pair it with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even cauliflower rice for a full Mediterranean-style keto meal.
Instant Pot Mediterranean Chicken Delight
4
servings20
minutes40
minutes450
kcal20
minutes1
hour20
minutesDive into a world of vibrant Mediterranean flavors with this Instant Pot chicken recipe! It’s a symphony of succulent chicken thighs, briny olives, and creamy Greek yogurt, all coming together in a dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Perfect for those seeking a keto-friendly meal, this recipe is a breeze to prepare and will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, this dish promises to deliver a restaurant-quality experience right in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- Chicken Section
8 pieces bone-in chicken thighs with skin approximately 3 pounds
kosher salt a generous sprinkle
freshly cracked black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Flavor Base
3 cloves garlic sliced thinly
1 cup pitted black kalamata olives
2 tablespoons tangy capers
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1.5 teaspoons dried oregano leaves
- Yogurt Sauce
1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves chopped roughly
1 lemon zest plus 1 tablespoon of its juice
Directions
- Sautéing the Chicken – Preheat your Instant Pot on high sauté for about 5 minutes. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Add olive oil to the pot and place half the chicken pieces skin-side down. Cook until the skin is golden brown, approximately 6-8 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and repeat with remaining chicken.
- Building the Flavor Base – Add sliced garlic to the pot and sauté until lightly golden, about 1 minute. Stir in olives, capers, vinegar, oregano, and half a cup of water. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom to enhance flavor.
- Pressure Cooking – Place the rack over the olive mixture and arrange chicken on top, skin-side up. Secure the lid and set to pressure cook on high for 10 minutes.
- Preparing Yogurt Sauce – In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, parsley, mint, lemon zest, and juice with a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Finishing Touches – Once cooking is complete, perform a quick release according to your Instant Pot’s instructions. Carefully remove the lid and transfer chicken to a serving platter. Use a slotted spoon to distribute the olive mixture over the chicken.
Equipment
- instant pot
Notes
- For best results, ensure the chicken skin is thoroughly browned before pressure cooking to lock in flavor and moisture. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. Feel free to add sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for an extra Mediterranean twist!
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Potassium: 450mg
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Vitamin A: 500IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 100mg
- Iron: 3mg
FAQ- Instant Pot Mediterranean Chicken Delight
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of bone-in thighs?
Yes, you can! However, bone-in thighs provide more flavor and moisture. If using boneless, reduce the pressure cooking time by about 2-3 minutes.
What can I use if I don’t have an Instant Pot?
You can make this recipe on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. On the stovetop, simmer the chicken for 45 minutes to an hour on low heat after browning. In a slow cooker, cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be made a day in advance and reheated. The flavors will actually develop even more after sitting in the fridge overnight.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until the chicken is warmed through. The yogurt sauce should be added just before serving.
What can I serve alongside this dish to complete the meal?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh cucumber-tomato salad, or a side of quinoa. For a keto-friendly option, try serving it with cauliflower rice or grilled zucchini.
