Lunch: Mediterranean Chicken

Capturing the simplicity found in sun-drenched Mediterranean cuisine, these braised chicken thighs melt under the influence of bright, vibrant lemon, briny olives and capers, and juicy plum tomatoes. Serve with rosemary mashed potatoes or over hot basmati

Ingredients

1 small lemon
1 3/4 cups coarsely chopped onion
1/4 cup pitted kalamata olives, halved (12 olives)
2 tablespoons drained capers
1 (14.5-ounce) can whole plum tomatoes, drained and coarsely chopped
12 bone-in chicken thighs (about 3 pounds), skinned
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
Chopped fresh rosemary (optional)
Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Grate rind and squeeze juice from lemon to measure 1 teaspoon and 1 tablespoon, respectively. Place lemon rind in a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate. Combine lemon juice, onion, and next 3 ingredients (through tomatoes) in a 5-quart electric slow cooker.
Sprinkle chicken with pepper. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil to pan; swirl to coat. Place half of chicken in pan; cook 3 minutes on each side or until browned. Place chicken in slow cooker. Repeat procedure with remaining chicken. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or until chicken is done.
Place chicken thighs on plates. Stir reserved lemon rind into sauce. Serve sauce over chicken. Garnish with rosemary and parsley, if desired.
Flavor Tip: Piquant, sharp, and tangy are just a few words to describe capers. Use capers sparingly to infuse sauces, salads, pizzas, dressings, and pasta or vegetable dishes with flavor.

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