How to Make Savory Chicken Olivia – Creamy Mediterranean Chicken Skillet

Savory Chicken Olivia is a modern, nutrient-rich chicken entrée that brings together the best of Mediterranean flavors and wholesome cooking. Designed for both weekday nourishment and weekend entertaining, this recipe features golden-seared chicken breasts enveloped in a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables and a creamy, herbaceous yogurt sauce. Each bite is layered with savory notes, lively acidity, and the unmistakable depth that only simple, high-quality ingredients can deliver. Chicken Olivia is an invitation to eat well, feel energized, and bring restaurant finesse to your home table.

Overview of Savory Chicken Olivia

Chicken Olivia is a sophisticated, one-pan dish that highlights the power of nutrient-dense ingredients without sacrificing taste or texture. Lean chicken breasts are briefly seared for a golden crust, then nestled into a skillet with tender sautéed vegetables—think bell pepper, spinach, and tomatoes—plus briny olives and capers for authentic Mediterranean dimension. A velvety Greek yogurt sauce infused with Dijon, lemon, and herbs brings balanced richness, while a touch of mozzarella ensures a gently melted finish. Baked until perfectly juicy, this dish delivers satisfying protein, vivid color, and vibrant flavor—making it the perfect answer for health-conscious home cooks seeking gourmet results.

Ingredients of Savory Chicken Olivia

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

For the Sauce

• 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or whole milk preferred)
• 2 tablespoons light mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Vegetable Medley

• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1/3 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
• 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion

To Finish

• 1/3 cup grated part-skim mozzarella or fontina cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or dill

Cook and Prep Times

• Active Prep: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 45–50 minutes
• Servings: 4

How To Make Savory Chicken Olivia

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry. Season both sides with kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until a deep golden color develops. Transfer to a plate (the chicken will finish cooking in the oven).

Step 2: Make the Yogurt Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, basil, sea salt, and pepper until smooth and well blended.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Lower heat to medium. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped red onion and sliced red bell pepper for 2–3 minutes until just softened. Add cherry tomatoes, spinach, olives, and capers; cook, stirring, until the spinach is wilted and tomatoes are just soft, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them among the vegetables. Spoon the yogurt sauce evenly over each breast and sprinkle with mozzarella. Transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C) and the sauce is bubbling gently.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Top with fresh parsley or dill and serve immediately, spooning extra vegetables and sauce over each portion.

Instructions (Detailed)

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear both sides in olive oil until golden; set aside.
3. Mix yogurt sauce ingredients in a bowl until creamy and smooth.
4. Sauté onion and peppers in skillet; add tomatoes, spinach, olives, and capers.
5. Nestle chicken into vegetables, coat with sauce, sprinkle with cheese.
6. Bake until chicken is just cooked through and sauce is bubbling.
7. Garnish and serve with fresh herbs and any pan juices.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: 41g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
  Values are estimates and may vary based on exact ingredients.

Serving of Savory Chicken Olivia

Serve Chicken Olivia over warm brown rice, herbed quinoa, or fluffy cauliflower rice for a complete meal. Pair with grilled asparagus, roasted vegetables, or a simple Mediterranean salad. For an elegant finish, drizzle with extra lemon juice or olive oil just before serving. This recipe is perfect for both meal prep and impressing dinner guests—simply plate with extra herbs and a lemon wedge for a chef-inspired presentation.

Chef’s Tips

• Pan Selection: Use a heavy-bottomed, oven-safe skillet (cast iron or stainless steel) for best results.
• Make Ahead: Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake just before serving.
• Flavor Boost: Try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper or sun-dried tomatoes to the vegetable medley for extra depth.