Zesty Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives Recipe

Mediterranean nights buzz with stories of unexpected flavor combinations in this lemon chicken recipe that dances between bright citrus notes and rich olive undertones.

My grandmother’s culinary wisdom whispers through each ingredient, blending traditional techniques with modern simplicity.

Briny artichoke hearts nestle alongside tender chicken pieces, creating a symphony of Mediterranean tastes.

Crisp olive accents bring depth to every savory bite, telling tales of coastal kitchens and sun-drenched landscapes.

Herbs plucked from rocky hillsides infuse the dish with authentic regional character and rustic charm.

Delicate yet robust, this meal promises to transport you straight to a seaside terrace overlooking azure waters.

Come, let the aromas guide you through a culinary journey that celebrates bold, uncomplicated cooking.

What Makes Mediterranean Lemon Chicken So Good

• Packed with zesty lemon, briny olives, and tender artichokes, this chicken recipe delivers a mouthwatering combination of Mediterranean flavors that'll transport your taste buds.
• Minimal cleanup and maximum taste make this skillet chicken a go-to recipe for home cooks looking to reduce kitchen mess while enjoying a restaurant-quality dinner.
• Lean chicken seasoned with herbs and cooked to golden perfection offers a nutritious meal that's both satisfying and good for you.

Everything You Need for Mediterranean Lemon Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that forms the main base of the dish, best when boneless and skinless for quick cooking.

• Salt, Black Pepper, Oregano, Paprika: Classic Mediterranean seasonings that add depth and warmth to the chicken, creating a bold flavor profile.

• Olive Oil: Essential Mediterranean ingredient that helps sear chicken and provides rich, authentic flavor, preferably extra virgin for best taste.

How to Make Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Ease

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Sprinkle the chicken with a zesty blend of salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika, coating each piece generously to lock in maximum flavor.

Step 2: Sizzle and Brown

Pour olive oil into a large skillet, bringing it to a searing medium-high heat. Carefully place the seasoned chicken into the hot pan, allowing each side to develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust for 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Create the Flavor Base

Remove the perfectly seared chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet, keep those delicious browned bits that will become the foundation of your sauce.

• Garlic, minced
• White wine
• Chicken broth
• Lemon juice
• Artichoke hearts
• Kalamata olives

Step 4: Build the Mediterranean Sauce

Toss minced garlic into the skillet, letting it dance and release its aromatic oils. Pour in white wine to deglaze, scraping up all the flavorful chicken bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Add chicken broth and a splash of bright lemon juice. Gently fold in artichoke hearts and Kalamata olives, creating a vibrant Mediterranean medley.

Step 6: Return the Chicken

Carefully return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the luxurious sauce. Cover and let everything simmer together, allowing the flavors to mingle and intensify.

Step 7: Final Touch

Cook until the chicken is completely tender and reaches a safe internal temperature. The sauce should reduce slightly, creating a glossy, flavor-packed coating.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the chicken to a serving platter, generously spooning the artichoke-olive sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra oregano for a burst of color and flavor.

Tips for Cooking Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Just Right

• Maximize Flavor Infusion: Marinate chicken for 30 minutes before cooking to allow herbs and spices to deeply penetrate the meat.
• Prevent Dryness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F without overcooking, keeping it juicy and tender.
• Choose Quality Ingredients: Select fresh, firm artichoke hearts and briny Kalamata olives for authentic Mediterranean taste and texture.
• Adapt for Dietary Needs: Swap chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version that maintains the recipe's vibrant flavor profile.
• Enhance Presentation: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a lemon wedge to add brightness and visual appeal to the final dish.

Store Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Without Losing Flavor

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
• Reheat individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes, drizzling a little extra olive oil to prevent dryness.
• Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm at 325°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Separate chicken from olives and artichokes before storing to maintain the best texture and prevent soggy ingredients.

Dishes That Pair with Mediterranean Lemon Chicken

• Refresh your palate with a zesty sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio that complements the bright lemon and herbal notes of the Mediterranean chicken.
• Create a vibrant side dish with cucumber, tomatoes, feta cheese, and red onions dressed in olive oil to enhance the Mediterranean flavors and add texture.
• Choose a rustic sourdough or ciabatta to soak up the delicious pan juices and artichoke-olive sauce, providing a perfect accompaniment to the tender chicken.
• Prepare light, fluffy couscous with fresh parsley and a touch of lemon zest to mirror the dish's Mediterranean profile and provide a mild, complementary grain base.

Try These Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Variations

• Herb-Infused Chicken Alternative: Swap oregano with za'atar spice blend for a Middle Eastern flavor profile, adding deeper aromatic complexity to the dish.
• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, marinating in same seasoning blend and searing until crispy golden edges develop.
• Dairy-Free Mediterranean Version: Use coconut oil instead of olive oil for searing, ensuring allergen-free preparation while maintaining authentic Mediterranean cooking techniques.
• Low-Sodium Option: Reduce salt content by using salt-free herb blends and replacing traditional olives with water-packed artichoke hearts to minimize sodium intake.

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken FAQs

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work perfectly. Just ensure they’re pounded to an even thickness and cooked to 165°F internal temperature for juicy results.

• How can I make this dish more budget-friendly?

Replace fresh artichokes with canned or frozen artichoke hearts. They’re cheaper and still provide great flavor and texture.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

It’s naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your specific ingredients like olives and artichokes to confirm no hidden gluten sources.

• What herbs complement this Mediterranean chicken best?

Besides oregano, try fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley. These classic Mediterranean herbs enhance the dish’s authentic flavor profile.

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken With Artichokes & Olives Recipe

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4.9 from 10 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean lemon chicken dances with zesty artichokes and briny olives, creating a sun-kissed culinary journey. Succulent herbs and tangy citrus invite you to savor Mediterranean comfort in one delightful, flavor-packed dish.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Herbs, Spices, and Aromatics:

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 small onion
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Liquids and Additional Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 0.5 cup white wine
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 cup canned or jarred artichoke hearts
• 0.5 cup green or Kalamata olives
• 2 tablespoons capers
• Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
• Extra lemon slices (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly coat chicken pieces with a harmonious blend of salt, ground pepper, dried oregano, and smoky paprika, ensuring each surface is evenly seasoned.
2. Select a spacious skillet and warm olive oil over medium-high temperature, creating a sizzling environment for perfect browning.
3. Carefully place seasoned chicken into the hot skillet, allowing each side to develop a rich, golden crust through strategic searing, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Once chicken achieves a beautiful caramelized exterior, transfer pieces to a separate plate, preserving their initial warmth and preparing for the next cooking phase.

Notes

• Marinate chicken overnight in lemon juice and herbs for deeper, more intense Mediterranean flavors that penetrate the meat completely.
• Use bone-in chicken thighs for juicier results, as they retain moisture better and develop richer flavor compared to chicken breasts.
• Choose high-quality Kalamata olives and artichoke hearts from a jar for authentic taste, ensuring they’re well-drained to prevent excess liquid in the dish.
• Consider substituting fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme if oregano isn’t available, maintaining the classic Mediterranean herb profile while adding personal culinary creativity.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 680 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg