Skip to main content

A Mediterranean Chicken Cutlet Dinner in 30 Minutes!

Image
Donna Urso
What's for dinner tonight?  If you are craving a flavorful, healthy, and super quick dinner that transports you straight to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean, I've got your back. Today, I'm sharing a recipe that's as delicious as it is easy: 

Mediterranean Chicken Cutlets with Spinach, Artichokes, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

A Meditterranean chicken cutlet dinner on a plate with spinach, artichoke hearts, sundried tomatoes, and capers.

Now, before you get intimidated by "Mediterranean," let me assure you, this recipe is anything but complicated. It requires minimal prep, comes together in less than 30 minutes, and is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the fuss.

The genesis of this recipe came from my sister-in-law who originally made it with salmon and roasted red peppers in place of sun-dried tomatoes, giving it a slightly sweeter twist than the version I'm sharing with you today.  I've made my version with salmon, swordfish, and chicken breasts and love it any of those ways. So feel free to experiment and make it your own!

Why You'll Love This Mediterranean Chicken Cutlet Dinner

It's a Flavor Fiesta: This recipe packs a punch in the taste department! Juicy chicken cutlets are infused with the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, briny artichoke hearts, and earthy spinach, all woven together with a touch of garlic and capers. It's a delight for your taste buds, transporting you to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean with every bite.

Healthy & Hearty: Don't be fooled by the light and easy preparation - this dish is surprisingly satisfying! The protein-packed chicken cutlets paired with the fiber-rich spinach and vitamins-laden artichoke hearts make it a well-balanced meal that nourishes your body without weighing you down.

A Speed Demon's Dream: Time-pressed? No problem! This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect answer to busy weeknight dinners. Skip the takeout and whip up this healthy and delicious meal in the time it takes to wait in line!

Versatility is King: This recipe is like a blank canvas for your creativity! Feeling adventurous? Swap the chicken for salmon or swordfish for a lighter seafood option. Craving a sweeter twist? Substitute the sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers as my sister-in-law did originally. No matter your preferences, this recipe adapts to your taste, making it a true crowd-pleaser.

Minimal Cleanup: Let's be honest, the fewer dishes, the better! This one-pan wonder requires minimal prep and cleanup, leaving you more time to savor the deliciousness and enjoy the company of your loved ones.

Let's Get Cooking: Mediterranean Chicken Cutlet Dinner in 30 Minutes

Here's how to whip up this flavorful and budget-friendly meal:

You Will Need

  • 1 boneless, skinless chicken cutlet per person, (bonus tip: save some bucks by slicing your own breasts instead of buying pre-cut cutlets!)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 6 ounces of baby spinach
  • 1 (12-ounce) jar/can of artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
  • ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienned
  • 3 tablespoons capers, drained (adjust for desired saltiness)
  • 4 large cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 ounces white wine, pinot grigio or chardonnay
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional garnishes: chopped fresh parsley, crumbled feta cheese, lemon wedges

The Process

1. Prep your cutlets: Carefully slice chicken breasts horizontally. Pound them gently with a mallet until about 1/4-½ inch thick. This ensures even cooking and makes them tender.
2. Heat it up: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Season your chicken cutlets generously with salt and pepper.
3. Sear to perfection: Place the chicken cutlets in the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown, and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F). Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
4. Flavor fiesta: In the same skillet, add the artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, and garlic. Cook for another minute.
5. Add the spinach and the wine.  Cover and wilt the spinach.
6. Return of the chicken: Nestle the cooked chicken cutlets back into the pan with the flavorful mixture. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and cook for another minute to heat through.
7. Plate and savor: Transfer your Mediterranean masterpiece to plates and garnish with your desired toppings like fresh parsley, crumbled feta cheese, or a squeeze of lemon juice. Enjoy!

Flexibility is Key

Remember, this recipe is all about personal preference! Don't be afraid to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Here are some ideas:

Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Go green: Substitute the spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor and texture.
Olive love: Kalamata olives would add a salty and briny twist.
Cheese please: Top your creation with a sprinkle of Parmesan or mozzarella cheese for a cheesy delight.

Budget Tip: By slicing your own chicken breasts into cutlets, you can save a significant amount compared to buying pre-cut ones. Bonus points for using leftover chicken cutlets in sandwiches, salads, or wraps for even more budget-friendly meals!

So there you have it! This easy, flavorful, and budget-friendly Mediterranean Chicken Cutlet Dinner is sure to impress your taste buds and your wallet. Get creative, have fun, and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean in your own kitchen!

For another Mediterranean alternative made with bone-in chicken thighs try this skillet dinner.

A women at the stove with an olive oil bottle in her hand.

Frequently Asked Questions: Mediterranean Chicken Cutlet Dinner

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Thighs are naturally more flavorful and juicy compared to breasts. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as thighs take slightly longer to cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 170°F.

 I don't have sun-dried tomatoes. Can I substitute them?

Sure! You can use roasted red peppers, chopped sun-dried tomatoes in oil, or even a sprinkle of dried herbs like oregano or thyme for a similar Mediterranean flavor profile.

I'm not a fan of capers. Can I leave them out?

Of course! Capers add a salty and briny flavor, but you can adjust them to your taste. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or some chopped olives for a similar tangy note.

This recipe calls for fresh spinach. Can I use frozen spinach instead?

Sure, but I don't recommend it. Fresh spinach looks better and is easier to use in the recipe.  If you must substitute, thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture from the frozen spinach before adding it to the pan. You might need to cook it slightly longer than fresh spinach.

Any tips for leftovers?

Absolutely! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave until warmed through. You can also use leftover chicken and sauce in wraps, salads, or sandwiches for a quick and delicious lunch.

 Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken cutlets and refrigerate them. Then cook the vegetable topping and nestle the cutlets in at the end to heat through. However, it's best to cook the entire dish fresh for the best texture and flavor.

The Mediterranean Chicken Cutlets Recipe

keto dinner, low carb dinner, chicken dinner, boneless chicken breasts
dinner
Italian
Yield: 4
Author: Donna Urso
Mediterranean Chicken Cutlets

Mediterranean Chicken Cutlets

A Mediterranean chicken, weeknight dinner made with boneless chicken breasts, spinach, artichoke hearts, capers and sun-dried tomatoes.
Prep time: 10 MinCook time: 20 MinTotal time: 30 Min

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Prep your cutlets: Carefully slice chicken breasts horizontally. Pound them gently with a mallet until about 1/4-½ inch thick. This ensures even cooking and makes them tender.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Season your chicken cutlets generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Place the chicken cutlets in the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F). Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add the artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, and garlic. Cook for another minute.
  5. Add the spinach and the wine. Cover and wilt the spinach.
  6. Return of the chicken: Nestle the cooked chicken cutlets back into the pan with the flavorful mixture. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and cook for another minute to heat through.

Notes

This is a flexible recipe. The amounts are a starting point. Adjust to your preference.

Recommended Products

12 inch non-stick skillet
7-inch Santoku Knife
White Serving Platters

Nutrition Facts

Calories

155.88

Fat (grams)

8.54 g

Sat. Fat (grams)

1.28 g

Carbs (grams)

7.02 g

Fiber (grams)

2.06 g

Net carbs

4.95 g

Sugar (grams)

2.83 g

Protein (grams)

11.57 g

Sodium (milligrams)

306.97 mg

Cholesterol (grams)

27.2 mg

Please use this nutritional information as a guide only.

Similar Recipes

Mediterranean Chicken Skillet Dinner

Healthy Chicken Parmesan

Weeknight Chicken Pot Pie

©Just One Donna








Comments

Post a Comment

Talk to me. I welcome your comments. (These comments are strictly moderated. Spammers take note.)

More Popular Posts

How to Make a Perfect Bacon and Eggs Breakfast

Donna Urso
In my opinion, the best breakfast consists of two perfectly fried eggs, crispy bacon, and toast made with hearty bread. This bacon and eggs recipe delivers. Bacon and eggs or eggs and bacon? No matter, it is definitely the breakfast you want on those lazy mornings when you have time to relax around the kitchen table, drinking a cup of coffee or two. The Best Bacon and Eggs Breakfast (This post contains affiliate links for your shopping convenience.  When you make a purchase using these links you help support this blog.) How to Cook Bacon and Eggs My technique was learned from my mom, by watching her make our family's breakfast over and over again, year after year.  This is a basted egg recipe which means the eggs are cooked in bacon grease. Cooking eggs in bacon fat is easy and takes just a little practice to perfect. All you really need for a great bacon and eggs breakfast is a good nonstick skillet and a good toaster . If you want to make your own bre...
2 comments
Read more

Grandma's Soft and Chewy Date-Filled Cookies

Donna Urso
One of the things I can count on as the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons arrive each year is a feeling of nostalgia. The traditional foods we serve at our family's holiday tables can sure bring out all the feels. Now that it is officially cookie season, we should kick it off with an old-fashioned homemade date-filled cookie recipe. This is a soft, tender cookie with dates that is a special, nostalgic, family recipe.   An Old-Fashioned Date Cookies Recipe This old-fashioned, date-filled cookie was my dad's favorite cookie from his childhood. My dad was born in 1932 so this recipe has been around for quite a while. 
13 comments
Read more

Amaretti Cookies for Your Christmas Cookie Platter

Donna Urso
Are you looking for Christmas cookie suggestions? During the holiday season, while you're pondering classic Christmas cookie favorites like sugar cookies and gingerbread men, consider adding a touch of Italian flair to your Christmas cookie platter.  Try Amaretti, delicate Italian almond cookies, with a subtly sweet flavor and crumbly texture. They are sure to become a cherished family treat. These classic Italian cookies have become a favorite Christmas cookie at my house. How to Make Classic Italian Amaretti Cookies Homemade Amaretti cookies bring a touch of sophistication and elegance to any dessert spread, making them perfect holiday treats. Their crisp, slightly chewy texture offers a delightful contrast to the usual soft, gooey holiday desserts. With a subtle almond sweetness, these cookies appeal to adults and kids alike and bring a taste of Italy to your holiday table. What Are Amaretti Cookies? Amaretti cookies have a rich history i...
Post a Comment
Read more

The Best Asian Dipping Sauce You'll Ever Taste

Donna Urso
If you're looking for a versatile, easy-to-make Asian dipping sauce perfect for sushi and dumplings, then you've come to the right place. This recipe for the best Asian dipping sauce is perfect for any time you want a  kick of delicious Asian flavor. An Asian Dipping Sauce for Sushi and Dumplings Try this if you are looking for a dipping sauce that is a little more flavorful than you typically get with your takeout order. You'll love it with dumplings, too!
2 comments
Read more

Traditional New England Whoopie Pies

Donna Urso
Are you looking for the best whoopie pie recipe?  Whoopie pies are a quintessential New England dessert and a memorable treat from my childhood.   My mom would make them for us every once in a while.  Oh, what a treat to come home from school to a platter of chocolate whoopie pies!  Yum! Today I'm sharing my recipe for the best-ever whoopie pies. The Best Whoopie Pies Recipe without Marshmallow Fluff Whoopie Pies Whoopie pies are soft round cookie-like cakes with a smooth cream filling sandwiched in the center. Debate rages about the whoopie pie's origin.  Some say these goodies originated in New England, others say they originated with the Amish.   There is also debate about what ingredients should be in the filling.  Many recipes include fillings made with Marshmallow Fluff or buttercream but neither is  traditional, in my opinion.  The whoopie pie of my childhood is a traditional Maine whoopie p...
8 comments
Read more

Crunchy, Spicy Gingersnap Cookies

Donna Urso
Today I'm sharing my recipe for the cookie recipe that I think is the ultimate spice cookie, Gingersnaps. Crunchy, spicy, and yummy are all words used to describe a good gingersnap cookie and this recipe delivers! While you may love a gooey chocolate chip cookie occasionally substituting a spicy gingersnaps cookie or  this molasses cookie  will make your taste buds sing!  Traditional Ginger Snaps Cookie Recipe ( This post contains affiliate links.  I will be compensated when you make a purchase with these links.) Gingersnaps Cookies This old-fashioned gingersnap cookie is a winner.  It's easy to make and will be a favorite in your recipe rotation. In the U.S., gingersnaps are usually drop cookies with lots of cracks on the surface.  That's exactly how I like them.  Those found in other countries may be thinner and sliced.  The Lebkuchen, a traditional German cookie, and the pepparkakor, from Sweden, are often cut into festiv...
8 comments
Read more

How to Trap and Get Rid of Fruit Flies

Donna Urso
Fruit flies can be a huge annoyance at certain times of the year. What can you do to kill fruit flies? We've all been there wondering how to get rid of fruit flies.  Fruit flies in the kitchen.  Fruit flies in the bathroom.  Fruit flies buzzing around everywhere in your home.   It's a frustrating problem that happens to everyone at one time or another.  If you are a fresh fruit and produce lover you certainly know what I mean. How to Kill Fruit Flies with Two Ingredients Those pesky little buggers can often be brought into your home on the vegetables and fruit you buy. You don't have to tolerate the annoyance.  This homemade fruit fly trap is one I have been using for many years and it works every time. 
1 comment
Read more

Bread Machine Dinner Rolls

Donna Urso
Are you looking for an easy dinner roll recipe? The easiest way to make fresh dinner rolls is with your bread machine. Relax while you use the dough setting of your bread machine to get the time-intensive steps out of the way. You'll be delighted with the results of this easy bread machine dinner roll recipe. The best bread machine dinner rolls are the ones you make yourself. How to Make Bread Machine Dinner Rolls This post contains Amazon affiliate links. When you use your bread machine to make dinner rolls most of the work is done by the machine.  You'll be delighted with how easy it is to make fresh rolls. While most of the work is being done by the bread machine you can be doing something else.
Post a Comment
Read more

Easy Chicken Parmesan-A Make Ahead Freezer Dinner

Donna Urso
Chicken Parmesan is a favorite dinner in the Just One Donna house because it is a delicious dish that can satisfy your cravings for Italian food. It's also easy to make at home with simple ingredients you probably have in your pantry.  But what if you don't have time to cook on a busy weeknight? Don't worry, you can make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time and freeze it for later. I like to prepare Chicken Parmesan to have on hand in my freezer for those busy weeknights when we might be tempted to head to a restaurant instead of eating at home.  How to Make Freezer Chicken Parmesan for Busy Nights This post contains affiliate links.  I receive a small compensation when you shop using these links Easy Freezer Chicken Parmesan for Dinner Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chi...
Post a Comment
Read more

Rum Punch for a Party

Donna Urso
As the weather warms and you start to think about gathering friends and family for parties and celebrations you'll want to think about signature cocktails. This rum punch cocktail is an ideal cocktail for a large gathering because the flavors are irresistible. Don't you think a warm-weather cocktail should make imagine yourself sitting by the shore on a tropical beach with your toes in the sand? Fruity rum drinks are perfect and rum punch is one of those perfect cocktails.  Cool and fruity, rum punch will make a party! One sip and you'll be transported to the beach. Rum Punch Cocktail (This post contains affiliate links for your shopping convenience.  When you make a purchase using these links you help support this blog.) Rum Punch for a Party! Can you make a rum punch ahead of time?  This rum punch recipe is a make-ahead recipe I use whenever we are having a large group for a summer picnic or barbecue.  Use the recipe below as your baseline and dou...
4 comments
Read more