Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives
Introduction
Looking for a fresh and vibrant dish that’s easy, healthy, and full of bold Mediterranean flavor? This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives is the perfect one-pan meal. Juicy chicken thighs are seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a zesty lemon sauce with briny olives and tender artichoke hearts. Great for searches like “Mediterranean chicken skillet,” “healthy lemon chicken recipe,” or “low-carb chicken dinner ideas.”
Origin and Cultural Significance
This dish draws inspiration from coastal Mediterranean cuisines—especially Greek and Italian traditions—where citrus, herbs, and preserved vegetables like olives and artichokes are culinary staples. It’s a beautiful example of how Mediterranean diets blend flavor and wellness with ease, using heart-healthy ingredients in satisfying, nourishing meals.
Ingredients
– 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and halved
– 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon slices, for garnish
Optional Additions
– Add cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra color and nutrients
– Swap chicken thighs with boneless breasts or drumsticks
– Crumble feta cheese on top before serving
– Stir in a spoon of capers for more briny depth
– Serve over couscous, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs, skin side down, and sear 5–6 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook 3–4 minutes more. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Return chicken to the pan. Cover and cook on low for 20–25 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Add artichoke hearts and olives. Simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and garnish with lemon slices. Serve warm.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Serves 4)
Calories: ~360
Protein: ~28g
Fat: ~22g (mostly from olive oil and chicken skin)
Carbohydrates: ~8g
Fiber: ~3g
Sugar: ~1g
Sodium: ~520mg
Gluten-Free and Low-Carb Friendly
Health Benefits
– Perfect for Mediterranean diet meal plans
– Rich in heart-healthy fats from olives and olive oil
– Great source of lean protein and antioxidants
– Low in carbs, making it a keto-friendly chicken recipe
– High in vitamin C, fiber, and anti-inflammatory compounds
Tips for Success
– For crispier skin, finish under the broiler for 2–3 minutes
– Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor
– Don’t overcook the artichokes—add them at the end
– Deglaze with a splash of white wine for extra depth
– Make it ahead—the flavor improves overnight!
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives brings sun-soaked flavor to your dinner table in a wholesome, one-skillet meal. It’s fast enough for weeknights and elegant enough for entertaining. A true flavor-forward comfort food that’s anything but heavy.
Recommendation
Serve this dish with a side of herbed couscous or roasted vegetables for a complete Mediterranean-inspired feast. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a great meal prep option too.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
With its balance of fresh citrus, savory herbs, and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is the definition of healthful indulgence. It proves that you don’t need cream or heavy sauces to create a rich, satisfying dish—just smart cooking and bold Mediterranean flavor.