Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives

Escape to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with this vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives recipe. This dish is a symphony of tastes and textures, combining tender chicken with the briny tang of Kalamata olives, the earthy heartiness of artichoke hearts, and the bright zest of lemon. It’s a meal that’s both satisfying and refreshingly light, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen – a fragrant blend of garlic, oregano, and sun-dried tomatoes, promising a culinary adventure you won’t soon forget. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a journey to the heart of Mediterranean cuisine, a celebration of fresh, simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. Get ready to transport your taste buds to a sun-kissed paradise!

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives

A bright and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired chicken dish featuring artichoke hearts, Kalamata olives, and a zesty lemon sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Greek, Mediterranean

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Cutting Board
• Mixing bowl

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 1 Onion Medium, chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic Minced
• 1 (14 oz) can Artichoke hearts Drained and quartered
• 1 (14 oz) can Kalamata olives Pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup Sun-dried tomatoes Oil-packed, drained and chopped
• 1/2 cup Chicken broth
• 1/4 cup Lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
• 1 tbsp Lemon zest
• 1 tsp Dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp Dried basil
• to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh parsley Chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

 

Instructions

• Season chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
• Add onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
• Stir in artichoke hearts, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Return chicken to the skillet. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice. Stir in lemon zest, oregano, and basil.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened slightly.
• Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve over rice, pasta, or couscous.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keyword artichoke recipe, easy chicken recipe, healthy chicken, lemon chicken, mediterranean diet, olive recipe, weeknight dinner

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives Recipe

This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives recipe is more than just a delicious meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

• Unbelievably Flavorful: The combination of lemon, garlic, oregano, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a vibrant, savory flavor profile that’s both bright and comforting. The salty olives and hearty artichokes add delightful textural contrasts and depth.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare, even for beginner cooks. The straightforward instructions and minimal prep time make it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve this dish over fluffy rice, your favorite pasta, or couscous for a complete and satisfying meal. It’s equally delicious served with crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
• Healthy and Wholesome: This recipe is packed with fresh, healthy ingredients. Lean chicken breast provides protein, while the vegetables offer a good source of vitamins and fiber. It’s a guilt-free way to indulge in delicious Mediterranean flavors.
• Make-Ahead Potential: You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, making it even easier to throw together a delicious meal on a busy night. The leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it a great option for meal prepping.
• Impressive Presentation: This dish looks as good as it tastes. The vibrant colors of the ingredients and the glossy lemon sauce create a beautiful and appetizing presentation that will impress your family and guests.

Why You Should Try This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives Recipe

Beyond its deliciousness and ease of preparation, this recipe offers several compelling reasons to try it:

• Explore New Flavors: This recipe is a fantastic opportunity to expand your culinary horizons and experience the bright, fresh flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. It’s a delicious gateway to exploring other regional specialties.
• Impress Your Guests: Serve this Mediterranean Lemon Chicken to your friends and family, and watch their faces light up with delight. It’s a sophisticated and flavorful dish that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: The leftovers are even better the next day! Prepare a large batch on the weekend and enjoy delicious lunches or dinners throughout the week. This saves time and ensures healthy, flavorful meals.
• Budget-Friendly: The ingredients for this recipe are readily available and relatively inexpensive, making it a budget-friendly option without compromising on taste or quality.
• Dietary Adaptability: The recipe can be easily adapted to suit various dietary needs. See the tips and variations section below for gluten-free and other modifications.
• A Taste of the Mediterranean at Home: Transport yourself to a sun-drenched Mediterranean coast without leaving your kitchen. The aromas and flavors will create a memorable dining experience.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Mediterranean Lemon Chicken

This section details the ingredients and recommended utensils for preparing the Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives. Using the right tools can significantly enhance your cooking experience and the final dish’s quality.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The foundation of our dish, ensuring a lean and tender protein source. Choose high-quality chicken for the best results. Keyword: Chicken Breast
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds flavor and helps brown the chicken beautifully. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best taste. Keyword: Olive Oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce. Use yellow or white onion for the best results. Keyword: Onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: A key ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, adding a pungent and savory aroma. Keyword: Garlic
• 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and quartered: Adds a delightful texture and subtle, earthy flavor. Choose artichoke hearts packed in water or brine, not oil. Keyword: Artichoke Hearts
• 1 (14 oz) can pitted Kalamata olives, halved: These briny olives bring a salty, umami punch that’s characteristic of Mediterranean cooking. Keyword: Kalamata Olives
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped: Adds intensity and sweetness to the sauce. Their chewy texture is a delightful contrast to the chicken and vegetables. Keyword: Sun-dried Tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and helps create a rich, flavorful sauce. Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content. Keyword: Chicken Broth
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 1 large lemon): The star of the show! Fresh lemon juice provides brightness and acidity that balances the other flavors perfectly. Keyword: Lemon Juice
• 1 tbsp lemon zest: Adds a fragrant and zesty aroma and flavor. Use a microplane grater for the finest zest. Keyword: Lemon Zest
• 1 tsp dried oregano: A quintessential Mediterranean herb that adds a warm, earthy flavor. Keyword: Oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil: Adds a subtle sweetness and herbal note. Keyword: Basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Season to your preference, but remember that the olives already provide a good amount of salt. Keyword: Salt and Pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish. Keyword: Parsley

Recommended Utensils:

• Large skillet or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for cooking the chicken and vegetables. A Dutch oven is ideal for simmering the sauce evenly. Keyword: Skillet or Dutch Oven
• Cutting board: For safely chopping the onion, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. Use a separate cutting board for raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination. Keyword: Cutting Board
• Sharp knife: Essential for precise chopping of the ingredients. A chef’s knife is ideal. Keyword: Chef’s Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients. Keyword: Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the ingredients in the skillet. Keyword: Wooden Spoon or Spatula
• Tongs: For easily removing the chicken from the skillet. Keyword: Tongs
• Microplane grater: For finely grating the lemon zest. Keyword: Microplane Grater
• Serving dish: To beautifully present your Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives. Keyword: Serving Dish

Detailed Recipe Steps for Mediterranean Lemon Chicken

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a mouthwatering Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. This is crucial for enhancing the flavor. **Don’t be shy with the seasoning!**
2. Brown the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. **Avoid overcrowding the pan;** work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until it softens, about 3-5 minutes. **Stir occasionally** to prevent burning. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. **Don’t overcook the garlic;** it can become bitter.
4. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the drained and quartered artichoke hearts, halved Kalamata olives, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. The sun-dried tomatoes will add a nice chewy texture.
5. Combine and Simmer: Return the browned chicken to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Stir in the lemon zest, dried oregano, and dried basil. **Ensure the chicken is fully submerged or mostly submerged in the liquid.**
6. Cook the Chicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. **Check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer;** it should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Serve your Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives over rice, pasta, or couscous.

Tips and Variations for Mediterranean Lemon Chicken

Here are some helpful tips and variations to elevate your Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives experience:

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Or, try a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Add them along with the artichokes and olives.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with other Mediterranean herbs like thyme or rosemary to personalize the flavor profile.
• Citrus Variation: Substitute some of the lemon juice with orange juice for a more complex citrus flavor.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or Greek yogurt at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce. This is particularly delicious if you’re serving the chicken over pasta.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure that your chicken broth and other ingredients are gluten-free certified if needed. Serve over gluten-free rice, pasta, or quinoa. For those following a gluten-free diet, this is an excellent choice.
• Avoid Overcooking: Overcooked chicken will be dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) but is not overcooked. Start checking the temperature around the 15-minute mark.
• Don’t Drain All the Oil from Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Reserve some of the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes and add it to the skillet for extra flavor.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Mediterranean Lemon Chicken

This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. While precise nutritional information will vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes, we can highlight the key benefits:

• Lean Protein: Chicken breast provides high-quality protein essential for building and repairing tissues. It’s a lean protein source, making it a healthy choice for weight management.
• Antioxidants: Sun-dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives are rich in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• Fiber: Artichokes are an excellent source of fiber, promoting digestive health and helping you feel full and satisfied after your meal. Fiber also helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Vitamins and Minerals: The vegetables in this dish provide various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate.
• Healthy Fats: Olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. The oil from sun-dried tomatoes adds to this healthy fat profile.
• Low in Saturated Fat: This recipe is relatively low in saturated fat, making it a heart-healthy option.

Note: For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input the specific ingredients and quantities you used.

FAQs

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients. Its vibrant flavors and easy preparation make it a perfect weeknight meal or a show-stopping dinner party dish. Remember to adjust seasonings to your taste and don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or herbs. The key is to enjoy the process and savor the delicious results. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and we’re confident it’ll become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and experiences with us in the comments below!

We’d love to see your photos! Share your version of this delicious Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives on Pinterest here and tag us! For more inspiration, check out our other delightful recipes like our Asparagus Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells or our Tortellini with Cream and Spinach with Shrimp. Happy cooking!