Chicken Thighs with Myrtle and Black Olives

Chicken thighs with myrtle and black olives is a rustic and fragrant dish that combines the flavors of Mediterranean tradition. Here is the recipe.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs
• 2 sprigs of fresh myrtle (or a tablespoon of dried myrtle berries)
• 1 glass of white wine
• 150 g of pitted black olives
• 2 cloves of garlic
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
2. In a frying pan large enough to contain the chicken thighs, heat a drizzle of oil and brown the whole garlic cloves and the chicken thighs until golden brown on all sides.
3. Deglaze with the white wine and let it evaporate on high heat.
4. Salt and pepper the chicken thighs to taste. Add the washed myrtle berries or sprigs and the black olives.
5. Transfer the contents of the pan to an oven dish, including the garlic, myrtle, and olives, and bake.
6. Bake in the oven for approximately 40-45 minutes or until the chicken thighs are well cooked and golden. If necessary, during cooking, baste the thighs with their own cooking juices.
7. Once ready, let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Fun Fact

Myrtle is a bush typical of the Mediterranean scrub and its berries and leaves are commonly used in Sardinia to prepare liqueurs and traditional dishes. Its unique aroma pairs very well with robust meats like chicken, giving a woodsy and fresh note to the dish.

If you don’t have myrtle, you can use rosemary or sage for a still Mediterranean but different aroma. Enjoy your meal!