Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives: A Flavorful, Healthy One-Pan Meal
Looking for a vibrant and healthy dish that’s packed with Mediterranean flavors? Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives is the perfect choice! This bright, flavorful dish features succulent chicken cooked with tangy lemon, tender artichokes, and briny olives, creating a savory and satisfying meal that will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean coast. The best part? It’s easy to make in one pan, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a meal to impress guests.
Why You’ll Love Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives: This dish is a wonderful balance of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors, with each bite offering something unique. The lemon adds brightness and acidity, while the artichokes and olives provide earthy, briny flavors that complement the juicy chicken perfectly. It’s also a healthy, nutrient-dense meal, rich in protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants. Plus, it’s low-maintenance — cook everything in one pan for a simple cleanup!
Ingredients for Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives:
- For the Chicken and Vegetables:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup artichoke hearts (canned or frozen, drained if necessary)
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or white wine (for deglazing)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts (or thighs) on both sides with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed and sauté the onion over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Deglaze the Pan:
- Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor. Allow the liquid to simmer for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the Artichokes and Olives:
- Stir in the artichoke hearts, Kalamata olives, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Let the mixture simmer for another 3-4 minutes until the artichokes are heated through and the flavors begin to meld together.
- Return the Chicken to the Pan:
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the artichoke and olive mixture over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the chicken to absorb some of the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a fresh, herbaceous finish. Serve with your choice of side dish, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or couscous.
Why This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives is Perfect: This dish is bursting with Mediterranean flavors from the combination of tangy lemon, briny olives, and tender artichokes. The chicken is juicy and flavorful, while the ingredients come together in a way that feels both light and satisfying. It’s also a one-pan meal, making it perfect for busy nights when you want a delicious dinner without a lot of cleanup.
Customization Tips:
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other Mediterranean vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra color and flavor.
- Use Bone-In Chicken: If you prefer bone-in chicken, you can substitute bone-in breasts or thighs, though the cooking time will increase.
- Serve Over Grain: For a heartier meal, serve the chicken and vegetables over a bed of quinoa, couscous, or rice.
- Spicy Kick: For some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sliced fresh chili when cooking the garlic.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, preparing for a special dinner, or meal prepping for the week ahead, Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives is a perfect choice. It’s simple, healthy, and packed with vibrant Mediterranean flavors that everyone will love. Plus, the one-pan cooking method makes it easy and convenient for any occasion.