Description
This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken thighs marinated in zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, seared to perfection, and simmered with tangy olives, artichoke hearts, and capers for a rich sauce. Perfectly balanced with a hint of honey and fresh parsley, this recipe offers an easy yet impressive meal inspired by classic Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Cooking
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (plus optional white wine for deglazing)
- 1/2 cup green or kalamata olives, pitted
- 1 cup canned or frozen artichoke hearts, drained
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp capers (optional)
Finishing Touches
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp honey (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine lemon juice, grated lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly with this marinade and allow them to sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator to develop maximum flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and sear for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the exterior is golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside temporarily.
- Build the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in chicken broth (and white wine if using) to deglaze the pan, scraping up all browned bits from the bottom. Add the pitted olives, drained artichoke hearts, red pepper flakes, and capers if using, stirring to combine.
- Simmer: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook fully and absorb the Mediterranean flavors.
- Finishing Touches: Stir in fresh chopped parsley and a small amount of honey to balance the acidity of the lemon. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm for the best flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with couscous, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal. A side of hummus and warm pita bread complements the Mediterranean profile perfectly.
- Garnish: Add extra lemon slices on top for a bright and fresh finish.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for longer enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- If you prefer less heat, omit the red pepper flakes.
- Using chicken thighs keeps the dish juicier, but chicken breasts work as a leaner alternative.
- Capers add extra brininess and brightness but are optional.
- This recipe can be easily doubled to serve more people.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Mediterranean chicken, lemon chicken, artichoke recipe, olives, easy chicken dinner, healthy chicken dish
