Name: Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: For the Chicken and Sauce:; Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (4): Alternatively, use boneless thighs for a quicker cook time.; Olive oil (2 tbsp): For searing the chicken and sautéing aromatics.; Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds flavor and fragrance to the dish.; Small onion (1, sliced): Sweet and savory base for the sauce.; Artichoke hearts (1 can, 14 oz, drained and quartered): Adds a unique, slightly tangy texture.; Mixed olives (½ cup, green and black): Brings saltiness and depth of flavor.; Lemon (1, thinly sliced): For a refreshing citrus kick.; Dry white wine (½ cup): Can be substituted with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.; Chicken broth (1 cup): The base of the savory sauce.; Dried oregano (1 tsp): Provides that distinct Mediterranean aroma.; Crushed red pepper flakes (½ tsp, optional): Adds a mild heat to the dish.; Salt and black pepper: To taste, for seasoning the chicken and sauce.; Fresh parsley: For garnish, adding freshness and color.

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Imagine this: juicy, tender chicken smothered in a tangy lemon marinade, artichokes adding a subtle earthiness, and olives bringing a pop of briny goodness. Welcome to the world of Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives, a dish that’s as vibrant as it sounds! It’s a one-pan wonder that’s bursting with bright Mediterranean flavors, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish that will steal the show at your next gathering. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer. The combination of zesty lemon, rich chicken, and the Mediterranean flair from artichokes and olives creates a harmony of flavors that’ll have you coming back for more. Let’s get cooking, shall we?

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

This recipe is all about creating memories through food. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal, entertaining guests, or just treating yourself to something special, this dish checks all the boxes. Here’s why it’s a fan favorite:

Versatile

It’s as perfect for a quick weeknight meal as it is for impressing friends at a dinner party. The combination of chicken, lemon, artichokes, and olives feels so Mediterranean yet approachable—it’s the kind of dish that’s always in style.

Budget-Friendly

While it may sound gourmet, you don’t need exotic ingredients to make this Mediterranean delight. It’s built on pantry staples like chicken, olives, and artichokes, so you can whip it up without breaking the bank.

Quick and Easy

With simple prep and straightforward steps, you’ll have a beautiful dish on the table in no time. No complicated techniques here—just delicious food made easy.

Customizable

Feel free to play around with the flavors! Prefer a bolder kick? Add some red pepper flakes. Want a more earthy vibe? Throw in some fresh thyme or rosemary. This recipe can be adjusted to suit your flavor profile perfectly.

Crowd-Pleasing

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or adventurous foodies, this dish strikes the perfect balance of flavors. It’s a surefire hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients in Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives

Here’s the magic of this dish—it’s a blend of fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a flavorful feast. Let’s break it down:

Chicken Thighs

The star of the dish. Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender as they cook. Plus, the skin crisps up beautifully, adding extra flavor!

Artichoke Hearts

Tender artichokes add a subtle earthiness that pairs so well with the bright lemon and briny olives. They’re a Mediterranean classic for a reason!

Kalamata Olives

These olives bring that irresistible salty, briny punch that makes everything just a little more delicious. Plus, they’re the perfect contrast to the creamy artichokes.

Lemon

A fresh squeeze of lemon juice and zest will give the dish that zingy citrus kick. It’s the perfect way to brighten up the other flavors and add some extra vibrancy to the plate.

Garlic

A little garlic goes a long way in this dish. It adds depth and aroma, infusing the chicken with that unmistakable savory fragrance we all love.

Olive Oil

For sautéing and drizzling, olive oil is a must. It ties the Mediterranean theme together and gives the dish a luscious, rich texture.

(Note: Full measurements are provided in the recipe card above!)

Instructions for Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives

Let’s dive into the steps to create this Mediterranean masterpiece:

Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your chicken crisps up nicely while the flavors come together.

Sear the Chicken

In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs, skin side down. Sear until the skin is golden and crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 3 minutes on the other side. Set the chicken aside for a moment.

Sauté the Garlic and Olives

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add more olive oil if needed, and toss in the garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add the olives and artichoke hearts to the pan, stirring to combine.

Add the Lemon & Chicken Back in

Now for the magic! Add the lemon zest and juice to the skillet. Stir everything around to coat the olives and artichokes in that beautiful citrus goodness. Return the seared chicken thighs to the pan, skin side up, and spoon some of the olive-artichoke mixture over the top.

Roast to Perfection

Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This will ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor.

Serve & Enjoy

Once the chicken is done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the chicken with the olive-artichoke mixture spooned over the top. You can garnish with fresh parsley or additional lemon slices if desired.

How to Serve Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives

This dish pairs beautifully with so many sides to round out the meal:

Fresh Salads

Pair it with a light, refreshing Greek salad or a simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. The contrast in textures and flavors will really elevate the dish.

Crusty Bread

Serve it with a loaf of warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices from the pan. Perfect for sopping up every last drop of that tangy, savory goodness.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted veggies, like zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers, add both color and nutrition. Their sweetness complements the lemony chicken perfectly.

Rice or Couscous

A side of fluffy rice or couscous is a wonderful choice to serve alongside. It soaks up the flavors from the chicken, olives, and artichokes, making each bite even more delightful.

Additional Tips

Here are some helpful tips to get the most out of this recipe:

Prep Ahead

Chop and prep your veggies and olives the night before. It’ll save you time and help streamline the cooking process.

Spice It Up

If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pan when you sauté the garlic. This little kick will add an extra layer of flavor.

Dietary Adjustments

For a lower-carb option, skip the rice or couscous and serve the chicken with extra veggies. You can also swap the olive oil for avocado oil if you prefer.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it back in the oven or use a microwave-safe dish.

Double the Batch

This recipe makes great leftovers! You can easily double the recipe to have a meal ready for the next day or even freeze the leftovers for future meals.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs?

A1: Yes, you can! Boneless chicken breasts will cook faster, so be sure to check the internal temperature earlier to prevent overcooking.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?

A2: Absolutely! You can sear the chicken and prepare the olive-artichoke mixture earlier in the day, then finish the roasting when you’re ready to serve.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?

A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?

A4: Yes! After cooking, let the dish cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It should last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven.

Q5: Can I use other olives?

A5: Definitely! While Kalamata olives are traditional, you can substitute with green olives, Castelvetrano olives, or any variety you prefer.

Q6: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?

A6: The best way is to reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, until warmed through.

Q7: Can I use jarred artichokes?

A7: Yes, jarred artichokes will work just fine! Just make sure to drain them well before adding to the pan.

Q8: Can I double the recipe?

A8: Of course! Just make sure you have a large enough skillet or use two pans. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly.

Q9: What side dishes go well with this recipe?

A9: Try serving it with roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a simple green bean almondine for a well-rounded meal.

Q10: How can I make this dish spicier?

A10: Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give it a bit of heat. You can also experiment with spicy olives or a bit of harissa.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives is everything you need in a dish: vibrant, flavorful, and downright delicious. It’s an easy way to transport your taste buds to the sunny Mediterranean coast, all while keeping things simple and comforting. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll be your new go-to for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. Enjoy every bite!

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives