🍋 Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives

This bright and flavorful dish is inspired by the coastal kitchens of southern Europe, especially regions like Greece and Italy, where olive oil, citrus, herbs, and briny olives create simple yet deeply satisfying meals.

Tender chicken is simmered in a lemony garlic sauce with artichokes and olives, making it perfect for a wholesome Mediterranean dinner. It’s light, heart-healthy, and packed with vibrant flavor.

🌿 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🍗 Lean protein from chicken
🫒 Rich in healthy fats from olive oil
🌱 High in antioxidants from artichokes & herbs
🍋 Naturally bright and fresh flavors
🥗 Fits beautifully into a Mediterranean-style diet

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
Juice of 1 large lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
1 cup artichoke hearts (canned or jarred, drained)
½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Optional:

¼ teaspoon chili flakes
2 tablespoons capers

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Sear the Chicken

Season chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.

2️⃣ Build the Flavor

In the same pan, sauté onion until soft.
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

3️⃣ Create the Lemon Sauce

Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice.
Add lemon zest, artichokes, olives, and capers (if using).
Let simmer 3–4 minutes.

4️⃣ Finish Cooking

Return chicken to the pan.
Cover and simmer 10–12 minutes until fully cooked and tender.

5️⃣ Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and drizzle a little extra olive oil before serving.

🥗 Serving Suggestions

With brown rice or quinoa
Alongside roasted Mediterranean vegetables
Over whole wheat pasta
With warm whole-grain pita

❓ Q & A

1️⃣ Can I bake this instead of cooking on the stove?

Yes! After searing, transfer everything to a baking dish and bake at 190°C (375°F) for 20–25 minutes.

2️⃣ Can I use chicken thighs?

Absolutely. Thighs stay juicier and add deeper flavor.

3️⃣ Are canned artichokes okay?

Yes. Choose water-packed or olive oil-packed artichokes and drain well.

4️⃣ Is this dish good for weight management?

Yes. It’s high in protein, low in refined carbs, and rich in healthy fats — ideal for Mediterranean-style eating.

5️⃣ Can I make it dairy-free?

It already is! No dairy required.

6️⃣ How long does it keep?

Store in the refrigerator up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain tenderness.

🌞 Mediterranean Cooking Tip

For extra depth, add a splash of white grape vinegar or a handful of cherry tomatoes for a subtle sweetness that balances the lemon.