Looking for a simple, flavor-forward dish that feels both rustic and elegant? This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives brings together juicy chicken breasts, zesty lemon, briny olives, and tender artichokes—all simmered in a light broth that’s perfect for spooning over couscous, rice, or crusty bread.
It’s a one-skillet dinner that checks all the boxes: easy to prep, bold in taste, and full of fresh, herbaceous notes that transport you straight to the Mediterranean coast.
Why I Love This Recipe
This dish has everything I crave in a weeknight dinner—lean protein, bright citrus, earthy herbs, and those irresistible salty-savory bites from olives and capers. Plus, it’s made in just one pan, so cleanup is a breeze.
It also feels fancy enough to serve to guests but is quick enough to whip up on a Tuesday. A squeeze of lemon, a sprinkle of parsley, and it’s ready to serve.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon capers (optional)
Swaps and Notes
- Chicken Thighs: Want even more flavor? Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
- Oregano: Fresh oregano or a pinch of thyme or rosemary adds an herbaceous edge.
- Olives: Kalamata olives are ideal, but green Castelvetrano olives work beautifully too.
- Artichokes: Use marinated artichokes for more tang, or stick to canned for a mellow flavor.
- Capers: Optional, but they elevate the dish with an extra hit of briny brightness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
🔹 Step 1: Season the Chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry and season with oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
🔹 Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside (chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet).
🔹 Step 3: Deglaze and Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, add chicken broth, lemon juice, chopped artichokes, olives, and capers. Stir to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
🔹 Step 4: Simmer Everything Together
Return chicken to the skillet. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and flavors meld beautifully.
🔹 Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook: Chicken breasts can dry out—use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internal temp.
- Use a wide skillet: This allows everything to caramelize slightly and develop deeper flavor.
- Serve with something that soaks: You’ll want every drop of that lemony sauce!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This dish pairs perfectly with:
- Couscous or orzo pasta
- Steamed rice or roasted potatoes
- Crusty bread to soak up all that citrusy, briny broth
For a light, Mediterranean-inspired spread, add:
- A Light, Tangy Chicken Salad – a refreshing appetizer or next-day lunch
- Blueberry Lemonade – zesty, refreshing, and the perfect pairing
- Instant Pot Lasagna for a hearty family-style companion
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas for a fusion-style meal mashup
- Tomato Skillet with Okra & Sausage – bold and rustic
Storage and Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce (without olives) for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
More Recipes You’ll Love
Love bright, flavorful dinners like this one? Try these next:
- Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage
- Instant Pot Lasagna
- A Light, Tangy Chicken Salad
- Blueberry Lemonade
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives is everything you want in a dinner—vibrant, satisfying, and full of fresh, herbaceous flavor. It comes together quickly and brings just enough elegance to impress without the stress.
Tried it? Tag @chefmaniac and show us how you served your Mediterranean masterpiece! 🍋🫒🍽️
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