Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bright flavors and transports you straight to the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast, then this Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe is just what your kitchen needs. Juicy chicken breasts are lovingly seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a vibrant sauce of tart lemon slices, briny olives, and tender artichoke hearts—all enhanced by fragrant herbs and garlic. It’s a stunning and satisfying meal that combines simplicity with a fresh, bold taste you’ll want to share with everyone at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for a handful of straightforward but thoughtfully chosen ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each one plays a crucial role, from the citrusy brightness of lemon to the savory depth of olives and herbs, giving the dish its signature Mediterranean charm.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that soaks up all the wonderful sauce flavors.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps create that perfect golden sear on the chicken.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: Offers classic Mediterranean herbal notes that bring warmth and earthiness.
• 1 tsp dried thyme: Complements oregano with subtle depth and a slight floral quality.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor and ties together the herbaceous elements.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and highlight all the flavors.
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced: The star ingredient for tart, zesty brightness that enlivens every bite.
• 1 cup green olives, pitted: Provide a salty, briny punch that contrasts beautifully with the lemon.
• 1 cup artichoke hearts, drained and quartered: Add tender, slightly nutty bites and wonderful texture.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Creates a savory base for the sauce and keeps the chicken juicy.
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional): Adds depth and slight acidity, but can be swapped with extra broth if preferred.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings intensely aromatic flavor for that signature Mediterranean punch.
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, herbal finish that adds pop of color and brightness.

How to Make Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt, pepper, dried oregano, thyme, and garlic powder. This step is key—it infuses the chicken with flavor right from the start, ensuring every bite is deliciously seasoned.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken breasts and let them sear until golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. This not only locks in juices but also forms that gorgeous crust that tastes amazing. Remove the chicken and set it aside for the sauce stage.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Using the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden. This brief moment allows the garlic to infuse its aroma into the oil, setting the foundation for the sauce’s flavor.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Wine

Pour in the chicken broth and white wine, carefully scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—you’ll be amazed at how much flavor this adds. Let the mixture come to a simmer. If you prefer to skip the wine, just add extra broth instead; the sauce remains deliciously flavorful.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

Stir in the thin lemon slices, green olives, and quartered artichoke hearts. These vibrant components create a medley of tastes and textures, elevating the dish with their contrasting freshness, saltiness, and tender heartiness.

Step 6: Cook the Chicken

Nestle the chicken breasts back into the skillet, submerging them partly in the flavorful sauce. Cover the pan and let everything gently simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked through and reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This slow cooking melds the flavors and keeps the meat tender.

Step 7: Finish and Serve Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe

Once cooked, finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve the chicken along with its luscious sauce and vegetables perched over your choice of rice, quinoa, or even a fresh bed of greens to soak up every last bit of that delightful Mediterranean zest.

How to Serve Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley is the perfect finishing touch, adding a burst of color and a mild herbal flavor that balances the bold lemon and olive notes. Consider a few lemon wedges on the side for diners who love an extra squeeze of brightness.

Side Dishes

This vibrant chicken dish pairs wonderfully with light, fluffy grains like couscous or quinoa, which capture the flavorful sauce perfectly. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad also complement the tangy, savory flavors without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, arrange the chicken breasts over a large platter, spoon the artichoke and olive mixture on top, and garnish with whole lemon slices and sprigs of fresh herbs. It makes a gorgeous centerpiece for sharing and invites everyone to dive in with delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it covered maintains moisture and preserves the vibrant flavors beautifully.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to keep the chicken tender.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This slow warming ensures the chicken stays juicy and the flavors remain bright and fresh.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe?

Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs or breasts will add extra depth of flavor, but you’ll need to extend the cooking time to ensure the meat is fully cooked and tender.

Is it okay to substitute canned artichoke hearts for fresh ones?

Yes, canned or jarred artichoke hearts work perfectly here. Just be sure to drain them well before adding to avoid excess liquid in the sauce.

What can I use instead of white wine?

If you prefer to skip the wine, simply use additional chicken broth. It will still create a rich, flavorful sauce without compromising the overall taste.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe contains no gluten ingredients, making it naturally gluten-free—just double-check that your broth and olives don’t contain any hidden additives.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace the chicken breasts with firm tofu or hearty eggplant slices, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The lemon, olives, and artichokes will still shine brilliantly.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to dishes for easy, flavorful weeknight dinners or impressive weekend meals. Its bright, sunny flavors never fail to bring a smile, and it’s one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again, sharing that delicious Mediterranean sunshine right from your own kitchen.

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe

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3.8 from 58 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Halal

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Description

A vibrant Mediterranean Lemon Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken breasts cooked with artichokes, green olives, and a zesty lemon sauce. This flavorful dish is seared then simmered to perfection, delivering a bright and savory meal perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner.

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Ingredients

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Chicken and Seasonings

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 1 cup green olives, pitted
• 1 cup artichoke hearts, drained and quartered (fresh or jarred)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional, or use more chicken broth)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Garnish

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly on both sides with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and garlic powder to infuse them with aromatic Mediterranean flavors.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic to keep the flavors fresh.
4. Add the Broth and Wine: Pour in the chicken broth and white wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the pan’s bottom. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer to meld the flavors.
5. Combine the Ingredients: Stir in the sliced lemon, green olives, and artichoke hearts, incorporating all the ingredients evenly into the sauce.
6. Cook the Chicken: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet among the sauce and vegetables. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and tender.
7. Finish and Serve: Garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley. Serve the Mediterranean lemon chicken with the artichoke and olive sauce over rice, quinoa, or a bed of greens for a delicious and complete meal.

Notes

• If white wine is not preferred, substitute with an equal amount of chicken broth.
• Use fresh lemon slices to add vibrant citrus flavor and garnish.
• Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for food safety.
• Artichoke hearts can be fresh or jarred; drain well before adding.
• This dish pairs wonderfully with grains like rice or quinoa, or served atop mixed greens for a lighter option.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean