Description
This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives is a simple yet sophisticated dish that comes together in under an hour. The chicken is first marinated in a flavorful mix of lemon juice, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs to enhance its taste. After marinating, it is seared to achieve a golden-brown crust, then simmered with artichokes, olives, and a white wine sauce until tender.
The dish is highly versatile—swap chicken thighs for breasts, use different olives, or add sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth. It’s a meal that requires minimal prep yet delivers a gourmet dining experience. Serve it over rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables to complement the flavors.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 2 lemons
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
1/2 cup green or kalamata olives, pitted
1 cup canned or frozen artichoke hearts, drained
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 tbsp capers (optional, for extra brininess)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 tsp honey (optional, to balance acidity)
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken: Combine lemon juice, zest, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Coat the chicken in the mixture and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor).
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Build the Sauce: In the same skillet, deglaze with white wine or broth, scraping up the browned bits. Add olives, artichokes, red pepper flakes, and capers.
Simmer: Return the chicken to the pan, reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
Finishing Touches: Stir in fresh parsley and a touch of honey. Serve warm.
Serving SuggestionsServe with couscous, quinoa, or roasted vegetables
Pair with a side of hummus and warm pita bread
Garnish with extra lemon slices for a bright finish
Notes
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 25 mins | Total Time: 40 mins | Yield: 4 servings | Category: Main Course | Method: Sautéing | Cuisine: Mediterranean | Diet: Gluten-Free
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 80mg