Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe is an absolute celebration of bright, fresh flavors paired with tender, juicy chicken. This dish combines the zingy brightness of lemon, the subtle earthiness of artichokes, and the salty richness of olives, creating a harmonious balance that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, this recipe feels like a warm Mediterranean hug on a plate. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but elegant enough to serve at your next dinner party.

A close-up of a dish with two golden-brown cooked chicken thighs placed on a white plate on a white marbled surface. The chicken thighs are sprinkled with green chopped herbs and black pepper, giving them a textured and flavorful look. On top of each chicken piece, there are thin slices of bright yellow lemon adding a fresh color contrast. Surrounding the chicken are light green, layered artichoke halves with a soft and tender texture, mixed with dark purple olives that add a shiny and smooth texture. The whole dish is garnished with more chopped herbs, creating a fresh and vibrant look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this flavorful Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe, you’ll want fresh and wholesome ingredients that each add their unique magic to the dish. The combination of lemon, olives, and artichokes offers a layered complexity that is both vibrant and satisfying.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect lean protein that soaks up the delicious sauce beautifully.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every flavor in the dish.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a touch of herbal warmth typical of Mediterranean cooking.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a subtle sweet aroma that complements the lemon juice.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Intensifies the savory notes without overpowering the dish.
1 lemon, juiced and zested: Provides bright acidity and fresh citrus aroma that lifts the entire dish.
1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered: Brings a tender, slightly tangy texture that’s utterly delightful.
1/2 cup pitted green olives, halved: Offers salty, briny pops of flavor for complexity and depth.
1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and helps create a luscious sauce.
1/4 cup white wine (optional): Elevates the sauce with a subtle fruity acidity and depth.
1/2 red onion, sliced: Provides sweetness and a pleasant crunch after cooking.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic aroma brings warmth and depth to the sauce.
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: A colorful, fresh finish that brightens the presentation.

How to Make Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your chicken finishes cooking perfectly after a quick sear. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and garlic powder. These herbs and spices will infuse every bite with Mediterranean charm.

Step 2: Searing the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the pan and sear them until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step locks in moisture and adds a beautiful crust that elevates the dish’s texture.

Step 3: Creating the Flavor Base

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, add the sliced red onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant and softened, releasing their delicious aroma that signals this dish is coming together beautifully.

Step 4: Adding Artichokes and Olives

Stir in the quartered artichoke hearts and halved green olives. Let them cook with the onions and garlic for another 2 minutes, allowing their flavors to mingle and create a vibrant Mediterranean foundation for the sauce.

Step 5: Building the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, white wine if you’re using it, and add the fresh lemon juice and zest. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, which melds all the flavors while reducing the liquid slightly into a luscious sauce that will coat the chicken beautifully.

Step 6: Baking to Perfection

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce and vegetables. Spoon some of the sauce over the top of each piece. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is slightly reduced. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is juicy and tender.

Step 7: Final Touches and Garnish

Finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. This not only adds a burst of color but also a fresh herbal note to brighten the rich, tangy sauce of this Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe.

How to Serve Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is the classic touch, but you can also add thin lemon slices for a pop of color and a bit of extra zing. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil before serving adds silkiness and richness.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy couscous, creamy mashed potatoes, or a simple herbed rice pilaf. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted Mediterranean vegetables to complement those briny olives and tender artichokes.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the chicken family-style in the skillet for a rustic, inviting feel. Alternatively, plate it individually with a drizzle of sauce artistically spooned on top, finishing with a lemon wedge for guests to add a bit of fresh acidity themselves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making your next meal even more delicious.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, this recipe freezes well. Place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to leave some sauce with the chicken to keep it moist upon reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This will help the chicken stay tender and the sauce saucy, just like freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, and they work wonderfully in this Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Is the white wine necessary?

White wine adds nice depth and subtle acidity to the sauce, but you can omit it if you prefer. Simply replace it with an equal amount of chicken broth for a delicious result.

Can I use fresh artichokes instead of canned?

Yes, but fresh artichokes require some prep and longer cooking time. If using fresh, trim and steam them first until tender before adding to the recipe to ensure the right texture and flavor.

What type of olives work best for this dish?

Green pitted olives are traditional and provide a bright, tangy element. You can experiment with kalamata or Castelvetrano olives for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your chicken broth and any optional white wine are gluten-free. It’s a great choice for those watching their gluten intake.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe enough for anyone looking to bring something fresh, vibrant, and truly comforting to their table. It’s a delightful blend of flavors and simple steps that produce a meal you’ll want to make again and again. So grab those ingredients, invite your favorite people over, and enjoy the taste of sunshine on a plate!

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe