Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives Recipe

Quick Overview

This one-pan Mediterranean Lemon Chicken combines tender chicken breasts with zesty lemon, artichokes, and olives for a healthy, flavorful meal ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or elegant entertaining!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor
• Heart-healthy ingredients: Features Mediterranean diet staples
• Ready in 30 minutes: Perfect for busy weeknights
• Gluten-free & low-carb: Fits many dietary preferences
• Meal-prep friendly: Stores and reheats beautifully

Mediterranean Origins

This dish celebrates the classic flavors found throughout Greece and Southern Italy, where bright citrus, herbs, and preserved vegetables form the backbone of traditional cooking. The Mediterranean diet is consistently ranked among the healthiest in the world, focusing on lean proteins, olive oil, and fresh produce.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 lemon (zest and juice)
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon capers (optional)

Optional Add-ins (For Extra Flavor)

• Crumbled feta cheese for garnish
• Cherry tomatoes (halved)
• White wine (substitute for part of the broth)
• Fresh spinach (added at the end of cooking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well incorporated.
2. Season the chicken: Coat chicken breasts thoroughly with the marinade mixture. For best results, let marinate for 30 minutes (if time allows).
3. Sear the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside temporarily.
4. Build the sauce: In the same pan, pour chicken broth to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add artichoke hearts, olives, and capers (if using).
5. Finish cooking: Return chicken to the pan, spooning the vegetable mixture over the top. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Reduce sauce: Uncover and allow sauce to reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes.
7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t skip the searing step: This creates a golden crust that seals in juices and adds flavor
• Use room temperature chicken: Take chicken out of the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before cooking
• Choose quality ingredients: Jarred artichokes and olives in brine or oil provide authentic Mediterranean flavor
• Deglaze thoroughly: Scrape all browned bits from the pan when adding broth for maximum flavor
• Let chicken rest: Allow 5 minutes before serving to keep chicken juicy

Serving Suggestions

This versatile dish pairs beautifully with:

• Lemon herb couscous or orzo
• Crusty bread for sauce-soaking
• Simple cucumber-tomato salad
• Roasted Mediterranean vegetables
• Steamed green beans with garlic

Wine Pairing

Complement the bright citrus notes with a crisp white wine such as:

• Sauvignon Blanc
• Pinot Grigio
• Dry Vermentino

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 580mg

Storage and Meal Prep

This dish keeps exceptionally well:

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days
• Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months
• Reheating: Warm gently on stovetop with a splash of broth or water to refresh sauce

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? A: Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and often stay juicier. Adjust cooking time as needed (usually 2-3 minutes longer).

Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly? A: Yes! With only 5g of carbohydrates per serving, this recipe fits well within keto guidelines.

Q: What can I substitute for artichokes? A: Try roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed zucchini for a different but complementary flavor profile.

Q: How can I make this dairy-free? A: The base recipe is naturally dairy-free; simply omit the optional feta cheese garnish.

Q: Can I make this in an Instant Pot? A: Yes! Sear chicken using Sauté function, then pressure cook on High for 5 minutes with quick release.

Enjoy this Mediterranean-inspired meal that brings together vibrant flavors in a simple, nutritious package. Perfect for health-conscious home cooks looking for recipes that don’t compromise on taste!