Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives: A One-Skillet Wonder Bursting with Flavor
Introduction
Bright, tangy, and full of savory depth, this Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives is the kind of simple yet elegant dish that turns any dinner into a Mediterranean escape. Juicy chicken thighs are pan-seared and then simmered in a zesty lemon sauce with tender artichokes, briny olives, and fragrant herbs. Perfect for those searching “healthy Mediterranean recipes,” “one-pan chicken dinners,” or “low-carb lemon chicken skillet.”
Origin and Cultural Significance
This dish draws from the heart of Mediterranean cuisine, where olive oil, citrus, herbs, and preserved vegetables form the culinary backbone. Countries like Greece, Italy, and Morocco often feature preserved lemons, olives, and braised chicken in their cooking. This modern take combines those rustic flavors with the ease of one-pan cooking—a nod to both traditional heritage and contemporary kitchen convenience.
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 can (14 oz) quartered artichoke hearts, drained
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
- 2 tbsp capers (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5–6 minutes until golden. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic and onions for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Pour in white wine (or broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits. Add lemon juice, zest, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
- Return chicken to the skillet. Scatter artichokes, olives, and capers (if using) around the chicken. Cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked and flavors are blended.
- Uncover and let simmer another 5 minutes to reduce sauce slightly.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges. Serve warm.
Optional Additions
- Add cherry tomatoes for extra sweetness
- Toss in baby spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes for added greens
- Substitute chicken breasts for a leaner option
- Serve over quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Serves 4)
- Calories: ~360
- Protein: ~28g
- Fat: ~22g
- Carbohydrates: ~8g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sugar: ~2g
- Sodium: ~640mg
- Cholesterol: ~90mg
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Low-Carb: Yes
- Dairy-Free: Yes
Healthy Information & Benefits
- High-protein, low-carb dish perfect for weight management
- Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from olives and olive oil
- Lemon and artichokes provide antioxidants and liver-supporting compounds
- Supports anti-inflammatory diets and Mediterranean lifestyle eating
- Naturally gluten-free and low-glycemic
Tips for Success
- Sear chicken well to lock in flavor and create crispy skin
- Don’t skip the lemon zest—it adds brightness
- Use marinated artichoke hearts for more intense flavor
- Let the sauce reduce uncovered to concentrate flavor
- Always taste before serving—olives and capers are naturally salty
Conclusion
Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives is more than a weeknight dinner—it’s a feel-good, flavor-packed celebration of real food. With bold citrus notes, savory herbs, and briny depth, it’s a simple one-skillet dish that’s endlessly satisfying and ready in under 40 minutes.
Recommendation
Pair it with a crisp green salad and a side of lemony couscous or roasted vegetables. Leftovers keep well, making this perfect for meal prep or a next-day lunch that’s even more flavorful.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This dish shows that eating clean doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. It’s a wholesome, satisfying meal designed to nourish your body and satisfy your soul—all while supporting a vibrant, heart-healthy lifestyle.