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Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe

4.4 from 112 reviews

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives is a bright and savory one-pan dish featuring tender seared chicken breasts infused with lemon zest, oregano, and garlic, simmered alongside artichoke hearts, Kalamata olives, and capers for a flavorful Mediterranean twist. This easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal and pairs wonderfully with rice or fresh salad.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce & Vegetables

  • 1 lemon (zest and juice)
  • 1 cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1 tablespoon capers (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano to infuse the flavors.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  3. Make the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium and add the lemon juice and zest to the skillet. Scrape the brown bits from the bottom of the pan, allowing them to dissolve into the mixture. Let it simmer for about 1 minute to incorporate the flavors.
  4. Add the Broth and Veggies: Pour in the chicken broth, then add the chopped artichoke hearts, sliced Kalamata olives, and capers if using. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  5. Return Chicken to Skillet: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet with the sauce and veggies. Let everything simmer together for 5-10 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the sauce’s flavors.
  6. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
  7. Serve: Serve the Mediterranean Lemon Chicken warm with spoonfuls of the sauce and vegetables over the top. Ideal accompaniments include rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

Notes

  • For juicier chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Capers are optional but add a nice briny contrast to the dish.
  • You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter option.
  • To make this a gluten-free meal, ensure all ingredients, especially broth and spices, are certified gluten-free.
  • Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Mediterranean chicken, lemon chicken, artichoke recipe, healthy chicken dinner, one-pan chicken, Kalamata olives, easy chicken recipes