Introduction

This One-Pan Mediterranean Lemon Chicken is your ticket to a vibrant, fuss-free dinner. Ready in just 45 minutes, it features tender chicken baked with briny olives and artichokes in a bright lemon-herb sauce. For another quick chicken dinner, try this Herb Roasted Chicken In Creamy White Wine Sauce Recipe. It’s a simple, flavor-packed meal that brings the sunny Mediterranean to your table any night of the week.

Ingredients

This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives comes together with bright, zesty lemon, briny olives, and tender artichokes for a vibrant and satisfying one-pan meal.

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 3 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 8 oz marinated artichoke hearts, drained
• 1/3 cup pitted olives (Kalamata or mixed)
• 2 tbsp olive oil for searing

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	35 minutes
Total Time	50 minutes

Context: This streamlined Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives is about 20% faster than similar recipes, thanks to efficient ingredient prep and a one-pan cooking method.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, the juice and zest of two lemons, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces (thighs or breasts work well), ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 2 — Preheat and Prepare Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, pat the marinated chicken pieces dry with paper towels—this is key for achieving a golden sear. Heat a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil.

Step 3 — Sear the Chicken

Place the chicken in the hot skillet, skin-side down if using thighs. Sear without moving for 5-7 minutes until a deep golden-brown crust forms. Flip and sear the other side for 3-4 minutes. The chicken will finish cooking in the oven, so it does not need to be fully cooked through here. Remove the chicken to a plate.

Step 4 — Sauté Aromatics and Artichokes

In the same skillet, add sliced onion and sauté for 3 minutes until softened. Add drained artichoke hearts (quartered if whole) and cook for another 2 minutes to lightly brown. Pour in a splash of chicken broth or white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful browned bits.

Step 5 — Combine and Bake

Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet among the artichokes and onions. Scatter pitted Kalamata olives and lemon slices over the top. Pour the remaining marinade and a bit more broth around (not over) the chicken. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.

Step 6 — Roast to Perfection

Bake the Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at its thickest part. The juices should run clear when pierced. The artichokes and olives will become tender and infused with the lemony sauce.

Step 7 — Rest and Garnish

Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill and an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~420 kcal
Protein	~38 g
Carbohydrates	~12 g
Fat	~24 g
Fiber	~4 g
Sodium	~680 mg

Note: These are approximate values per serving of Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives, calculated using standard ingredients. Actual values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Healthier Alternatives

This classic Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives is wonderfully adaptable. Here are simple swaps to suit different dietary needs without sacrificing the bright, savory flavor.

• Protein Swap (Chicken Thighs) — For a leaner option, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Reduce cooking time slightly to prevent dryness. For a plant-based alternative, try firm tofu or chickpeas, adding them later to avoid breaking down.
• Lower-Carb Option — Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnips. They’ll soak up the lemony, herby sauce beautifully while keeping the dish low in carbohydrates.
• Dairy-Free Adjustment — The recipe is naturally dairy-free if you use olive oil. If a recipe variation calls for butter, simply substitute it with extra virgin olive oil for the same rich mouthfeel.
• Gluten-Free Note — This one-pot Mediterranean Lemon Chicken is inherently gluten-free. Always check labels on canned artichokes and olives to ensure no gluten-containing additives are present.
• Low-Sodium Version — Use no-salt-added chicken broth, fresh artichoke hearts instead of jarred (which are often packed in brine), and rinse the olives thoroughly. Boost flavor with extra garlic, lemon zest, and herbs like oregano and thyme.
• Oil Alternative — For a lighter fat profile, you can replace some of the olive oil with a splash of chicken broth for sautéing, though you’ll lose a bit of the classic Mediterranean richness.
• Herb Variations — If you don’t have fresh oregano or thyme, dried herbs work in a pinch (use one-third the amount). For a different profile, try rosemary or a sprinkle of herbes de Provence.
• Acidity Balance — If lemons are too sharp, use half lemon juice and half white wine or a splash of white wine vinegar for a more mellow, complex acidity in the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this vibrant Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives with a simple side of lemon-herb orzo or fluffy couscous to soak up the delicious pan juices.
• For a lighter, low-carb meal, serve it over a bed of fresh spinach or arugula, which will wilt slightly from the warm sauce.
• This dish is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner but elegant enough for a weekend gathering. Plate it family-style in a large, shallow serving dish to showcase the colorful artichokes and olives.
• Accompany it with warm, crusty bread like ciabatta or pita for dipping into the lemony, garlic-infused sauce.
• Complement the bright flavors with a crisp, chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
• For a complete Mediterranean spread, add starters like hummus, tzatziki, and a simple Greek salad.
• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or dill and extra lemon wedges just before serving to enhance the visual appeal and add a final burst of freshness.

This versatile Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives is a crowd-pleaser that brings the sunny flavors of the coast to your table with minimal fuss.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using jarred artichoke hearts packed in oil or heavy brine. Fix: Opt for frozen, thawed, or water-packed artichokes to prevent an overly oily or salty dish.
• Mistake: Adding lemon juice too early in cooking. Fix: Add fresh lemon juice and zest at the end to preserve its bright, aromatic flavor.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the pan when browning chicken. Fix: Sear in batches to ensure a golden, crispy skin that locks in juices.
• Mistake: Using pitted olives from the start. Fix: Add whole, unpitted Kalamata olives late in the simmer; they hold their texture and flavor better.
• Mistake: Skipping the step to deglaze the pan after browning. Fix: Use a splash of white wine or chicken broth to scrape up the flavorful fond for your sauce.
• Mistake: Cooking the chicken breasts and thighs together for the same time. Fix: Add quicker-cooking breasts later to ensure all pieces are perfectly tender, not dry.
• Mistake: Not patting the chicken completely dry before seasoning. Fix: Dry skin ensures better browning and helps the seasoning adhere properly.
• Mistake: Using dried herbs instead of fresh at the finish. Fix: Stir in fresh oregano or parsley just before serving for a vibrant, authentic Mediterranean flavor.
• Mistake: Letting the sauce reduce too much, making it overly salty. Fix: Simmer gently and check seasoning at the end, as olives and broth concentrate.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the chicken has cooled to room temperature before refrigerating.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring occasionally. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F for food safety.

For best quality, store the lemony sauce, artichokes, and olives together with the chicken to let the flavors continue to meld.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives is a vibrant, one-pan wonder that brings the flavors of the coast to your table. We hope you love this easy, healthy dinner as much as we do. Give it a try and share your thoughts in the comments below!

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FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. However, thighs are recommended for this Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives as they stay juicier during the longer braising time. If using breasts, reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent them from drying out.

What can I substitute for the artichokes?

If fresh or jarred artichokes are unavailable, you can substitute with canned artichoke hearts (drained well) or even hearts of palm for a similar texture. The dish will still capture the essential bright, savory flavors of Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives.

How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist. The flavors often improve the next day.