Mediterranean Chicken with Olives and Artichokes (One-Pan Skillet Dinner)
Description
This Mediterranean Chicken with Olives and Artichokes is a deeply flavorful, restaurant-quality dish that comes together in one pan while delivering bold, comforting flavors. Golden-seared chicken thighs are simmered in a savory garlic-herb sauce with briny green olives, tender artichoke hearts, and aromatic Mediterranean spices, creating a meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Inspired by classic Greek and Italian chicken recipes, this dish highlights the magic of simple ingredients cooked properly. The chicken is juicy on the inside with beautifully caramelized skin, while the olives and artichokes soak up the rich pan sauce. Finished with fresh herbs, this meal is perfect for weeknight dinners, healthy meal prep, family gatherings, and elegant dinner parties.
What makes this recipe especially appealing is its versatility. It’s naturally gluten-free, low-carb, keto-friendly, and high in protein, making it a frequent favorite among readers searching for healthy chicken recipes, Mediterranean diet meals, and one-pan dinners.
Why This Mediterranean Chicken Recipe Is So Popular
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One-pan recipe = easy cleanup
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Packed with heart-healthy Mediterranean ingredients
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Works for keto, low-carb, and gluten-free diets
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Ideal for meal prep and leftovers
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High search demand for olive chicken, skillet chicken recipes, and healthy dinner ideas
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
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6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon sea salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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½ teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
Sauce & Add-Ins
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1 cup green olives (Castelvetrano or Manzanilla)
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1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and halved
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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½ cup chicken broth
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¼ cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute broth)
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon lemon zest
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
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1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, oregano, paprika, and garlic powder on both sides. Dry skin ensures a perfect golden sear.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken skin-side down and sear for 5–7 minutes until the skin is deeply golden and crisp. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in white wine (or broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits—this is where the flavor lives.
Step 4: Add Olives and Artichokes
Stir in chicken broth, olives, artichoke hearts, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes.
Step 5: Return Chicken to the Pan
Nestle the chicken thighs back into the sauce, skin-side up. Spoon some sauce over the chicken without soaking the skin.
Step 6: Finish Cooking
Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and herbs. Serve hot with sauce spooned generously over the chicken.
Flavor Variations
Creamy Mediterranean Chicken
Add ¼ cup heavy cream or coconut cream to the sauce for a richer texture.
Spicy Olive Chicken
Add red pepper flakes or Calabrian chili paste for heat.
Dairy-Free & Paleo Option
Skip cream and wine; use extra broth and lemon juice.
Boneless Chicken Version
Use boneless thighs or breasts and reduce cooking time by 10 minutes.
Nutrition Benefits
This dish fits perfectly into the Mediterranean diet, one of the most researched eating patterns for longevity and heart health.
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Chicken thighs: High-quality protein, iron, zinc
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Olives: Monounsaturated fats for heart health
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Artichokes: Fiber-rich, supports digestion and liver health
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Olive oil: Anti-inflammatory properties
Approximate nutrition per serving:
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Calories: 420–450
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Protein: 32g
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Net Carbs: 6–8g
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Healthy Fats: High
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
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Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
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Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve moisture
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Freezes well for up to 2 months
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Ideal for high-protein meal prep
Best Side Dishes to Serve With
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Roasted Mediterranean vegetables
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Garlic cauliflower mash (low-carb)
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Lemon herb rice or quinoa
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Crusty bread for sauce (non-keto option)
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Greek salad or cucumber tomato salad
Related Questions (High-CPM SEO Keywords)
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What is the healthiest Mediterranean chicken recipe?
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Is chicken with olives good for weight loss?
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Can Mediterranean chicken be made keto-friendly?
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What are the best one-pan chicken dinners?
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Is olive oil chicken good for heart health?
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How do you cook chicken thighs so they stay juicy?
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What vegetables go well with Mediterranean chicken?
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Can I make Mediterranean chicken ahead of time?
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Is chicken with artichokes good for digestion?
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What are high-protein dinner recipes for families?
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Can Mediterranean chicken be frozen?
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What are easy skillet chicken recipes for beginners?
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Is Mediterranean diet good for lowering cholesterol?
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What herbs pair best with chicken and olives?
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How do you make restaurant-style chicken at home?
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Chicken with Olives and Artichokes is the perfect blend of comfort food and healthy eating. It’s rich without being heavy, simple yet impressive, and flexible enough for nearly every dietary preference. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or weekly meal prep, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
