If you are craving a dish packed with bright, zesty flavors and a touch of Mediterranean charm, the Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken breasts with tangy lemon, briny olives, and tender artichokes, creating a harmonious balance of tastes and textures that feels both fresh and comforting. It’s an easy yet impressive meal to prepare that brings the essence of the Mediterranean right to your table, perfect for weekday dinners or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe lies in its simple, well-chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding savory depth, tangy brightness, or aromatic herbs that elevate the entire dish.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds): The star protein, ensuring juicy and tender bites.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps achieve a beautiful golden sear on the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors while seasoning the chicken perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle heat that balances the lemon’s acidity.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings in a mild, savory undertone without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the chicken marinade.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Infuses bright citrus oils that lift the entire recipe.
- Juice of 2 lemons: Provides vibrant acidity and fresh flavor throughout the dish.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and creates a savory base for the sauce.
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and halved: Adds a tender texture and mild, earthy flavor that beautifully complements the lemon.
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved: Brings briny richness and a distinct Mediterranean flair.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Provides a fragrant, herbal note that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds earthy warmth and complexity.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Offers a fresh, bright contrast visually and in flavor at the end.
How to Make Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring the heat is just right to cook the chicken to juicy perfection. This step sets the stage for even cooking and a golden crust.
Step 2: Create the Zesty Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This simple marinade is where the flavors start to develop, giving the chicken a vibrant and savory lemon boost.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, tossing them to coat thoroughly. Letting the chicken sit for at least 15 minutes—or up to an hour in your fridge—not only tenderizes the meat but soaks it with all those bright, herby, citrusy notes.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Heat a splash of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This caramelization adds texture and flavor, locking in the juices.
Step 5: Add Broth, Artichokes, and Olives
Pour the chicken broth gently into the skillet so it reaches about halfway up the chicken. Nestle the artichoke hearts and Kalamata olives evenly around the chicken. Sprinkle dried oregano and thyme over the top to bring out warm, earthy notes that complement the lemon perfectly.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through fully while absorbing the aromatic flavors of lemon, herbs, olives, and artichokes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
After baking, take the skillet out and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This resting period is essential; it redistributes the juices so each bite is tender and moist. Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the perfect vibrant garnish for this dish, adding both color and a subtle herbal freshness. For an extra touch, a few lemon slices or a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil can enhance the visual appeal and flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines when paired with sides that soak up the delicious pan juices. Think roasted vegetables like asparagus or carrots, or simple couscous or fluffy rice that will complement the bright lemon and salty olives. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette also pairs wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the chicken family-style right from the oven-safe skillet for a rustic, cozy vibe. Alternatively, plate the chicken over a bed of herbed quinoa or orzo pasta, letting the artichokes and olives scatter artfully around it. Adding edible flowers or microgreens also gives a stunning, unexpected twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors marry even more after a day, making it just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Store the chicken and sauce separately if possible, in freezer-friendly containers or bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through. This prevents the chicken from drying out and keeps those Mediterranean flavors vibrant and fresh, just like the first time you cooked it.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs will add even more flavor and richness. Just adjust the cooking time by adding about 10-15 minutes to ensure they cook through completely.
Are Kalamata olives essential for this recipe?
While Kalamata olives provide the signature briny flavor, you can substitute with other Mediterranean-style olives like green olives or Castelvetrano if preferred. Just make sure to pit and halve them for even cooking.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it perfect for those avoiding dairy while still craving a flavorful, satisfying meal.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
For a subtle kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade or sprinkle a bit on top before baking. It adds warmth without overpowering the fresh lemon and herbs.
Can this recipe be made in advance for entertaining?
Yes, marinate the chicken ahead of time and assemble the skillet just before baking. You can even prepare the whole skillet and keep it refrigerated, then bake just before serving for an easy, impressive meal.
Final Thoughts
Trying the Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe is like taking your taste buds on a sunny Mediterranean getaway. It’s a dish bursting with fresh flavors that is simple enough for weeknights yet special enough for guests. Once you make this vibrant, comforting meal, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious taste of the Mediterranean right in your own kitchen!
Print
Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean Lemon Chicken dish featuring tender, seared chicken breasts baked with artichoke hearts, Kalamata olives, and aromatic herbs. This easy-to-make recipe combines bright lemon zest and juice with classic Mediterranean ingredients for a delicious and healthy meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 2 lemons
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken will cook evenly and become perfectly tender during baking.
- Prepare Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them thoroughly in the marinade. Let the chicken sit for at least 15 minutes or up to an hour in the refrigerator to absorb the flavors.
- Sear Chicken: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil if needed. Once hot, sear the marinated chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown, locking in juices and flavor.
- Add Broth: Carefully pour 1 cup of chicken broth into the skillet, ensuring it comes about halfway up the chicken to keep it moist during baking.
- Add Artichokes, Olives & Herbs: Evenly distribute the drained and halved artichoke hearts and Kalamata olives around the chicken. Sprinkle dried oregano and thyme over the top to infuse Mediterranean herb aromas.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), signaling it is fully cooked and juicy.
- Rest: Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes. This resting period lets the juices redistribute for moist, tender meat.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken before serving. Enjoy warm alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Notes
- Marinating for longer enhances the lemon and herb flavors deeply.
- If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, sear the chicken in a pan, then transfer to a baking dish before baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to safe internal temperature without overcooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a dairy-free meal, ensure no butter is added during searing or serving.
