Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives

Zesty • One-Pan • High-Protein • Mediterranean Classic

Description

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives features juicy chicken simmered in a lemony garlic sauce with tender artichoke hearts and briny olives. Finished with olive oil and fresh herbs, this dish captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking—simple ingredients, bold flavor, and wholesome nutrition. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

1½ lb (700 g) chicken thighs or breasts (boneless or bone-in)
3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 large lemon
¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained & halved
⅓ cup Kalamata olives, pitted & halved
Salt & black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken

Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and lemon zest.

2. Sear

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat.
Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.

3. Build the Sauce

Lower heat to medium. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up browned bits.

4. Simmer

Return chicken to the pan.
Add artichokes and olives around the chicken.
Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.

5. Finish

Taste and adjust seasoning.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill and drizzle lightly with olive oil.

Serving Suggestions

Over brown rice, quinoa, or farro
With roasted potatoes or lemony cauliflower
Alongside a Greek salad or steamed greens

Nutrition Highlights (Approx. per serving)

Protein: ~35 g
Healthy fats: Olive oil & olives
Low in refined carbs
Rich in antioxidants from lemon and herbs

Q & A

Q: Can I bake this instead of simmering?
A: Yes. After searing, add sauce and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes.

Q: Can I use chicken breasts only?
A: Absolutely. Reduce simmering time slightly to avoid drying them out.

Q: Are marinated artichokes okay?
A: Yes—just reduce added salt and olive oil since they’re already seasoned.

Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
A: It freezes well for up to 2 months, though the lemon flavor is freshest when eaten fresh.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: It’s naturally dairy-free and fits well into a Mediterranean diet.