Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives

🍋🍗 Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 25–30 min
Style: Mediterranean, low-carb, high-protein


Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 4 boneless chicken breasts (or thighs)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 4–5 garlic cloves, minced

  • Salt & black pepper

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • 1 tsp dried thyme

  • ½ tsp paprika (optional)

For the Sauce

  • Juice of 2 lemons (about 6 tbsp)

  • Zest of 1 lemon

  • ½ cup chicken broth

  • 1 tbsp honey (optional, for balance)

  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)

Add-ins

  • 1 cup artichoke hearts (canned or frozen)

  • ½ cup pitted green or kalamata olives

  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes (optional but delicious)

  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish


🍳 Instructions

1. Season the Chicken

Season chicken generously with:

  • salt

  • black pepper

  • oregano

  • thyme

  • paprika

Rub well.


2. Sear the Chicken

  1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

  2. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden.

  3. Remove and set aside.


3. Prepare the Lemon Sauce

In the same pan, add:

  • garlic (sauté 30 seconds)

  • lemon juice

  • lemon zest

  • chicken broth

  • honey (optional)

  • Dijon mustard

  • chili flakes

Stir and bring to a low simmer.


4. Add Artichokes & Olives

Add to the pan:

  • artichoke hearts

  • olives

  • cherry tomatoes (if using)

Mix gently.


5. Return Chicken to Pan

Place chicken back into the sauce.
Simmer uncovered 12–15 minutes, until chicken is cooked and sauce slightly reduced.

For extra Mediterranean flavor, drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil on top before serving.


🌿 Serve With

  • Couscous or quinoa

  • Herbed rice

  • Roasted vegetables

  • Greek salad

  • Cauliflower rice (low-carb option)


💡 Mediterranean Variations

  • Add capers for extra tang.

  • Use fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs while simmering.

  • Add spinach during the last 2 minutes for color & nutrients.

  • Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for richness.

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