Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean coast with this quick and wholesome Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe combines juicy chicken, briny olives, tender artichokes, and zesty lemon to create a flavorful and healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 4 boneless chicken thighs or breasts
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata or green olives, pitted and halved
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon, juice and zest
Liquids
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine as a variation)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Herbs & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs or breasts generously with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and thyme. This builds a flavorful foundation for the dish.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken skin-side down if applicable and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden and crisp. Flip and brown the other side for 3-4 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Artichokes: Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant but not burnt. Add the marinated artichoke hearts and olives, stirring to combine and warm through, infusing the pan flavors.
- Add Lemon and Broth: Pour in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits left from the chicken to start creating the vibrant sauce.
- Return the Chicken and Simmer: Place chicken back into the skillet, spoon some sauce over each piece. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tender, soaking in the zesty sauce.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the lid and let the sauce reduce slightly to intensify flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Plate and garnish as desired. Enjoy your Mediterranean Lemon Chicken!
Notes
- Use room-temperature chicken for even cooking and to prevent drying out.
- Don’t skip searing to lock in flavors and create a delicious crust.
- Fresh lemon zest adds more vibrant citrus flavor than bottled lemon juice alone.
- Simmer gently on medium-low heat to keep chicken tender.
- Spoon the reduced pan sauce over chicken or sides for maximum flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken serving with sauce
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
Keywords: Mediterranean chicken, lemon chicken, artichokes, olives, quick dinner, healthy chicken recipe, gluten free