Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives

The Mediterranean diet is globally celebrated for its heart-healthy benefits, anti-inflammatory properties, and fresh, wholesome ingredients. Rich in olive oil, vegetables, lean proteins, and herbs, it’s no wonder this way of eating has been linked to longevity and overall wellness.

Among the many gems of this cuisine is Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives — a dish that embodies all the vibrant flavors and nutritional benefits the region has to offer. This recipe is more than a meal; it’s an experience of contrasting tastes and textures.

Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with zesty lemon juice, nestled among briny olives and earthy marinated artichokes. Whether you’re entertaining guests or preparing a family dinner, this easy yet elegant dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in a single skillet. And the best part? It’s simple enough for a weeknight, but impressive enough for any occasion.

Ingredients Overview

Crafting the perfect Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives starts with choosing high-quality, flavorful ingredients. This dish is versatile, so feel free to make substitutions based on your preferences or pantry staples.

Protein Choices:

• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs provide rich flavor and crispy skin.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts offer a leaner, quicker-cooking alternative.

Vegetables & Add-ins:

• Marinated artichoke hearts add a tangy depth.

• A mix of Castelvetrano olives (mild and buttery) and Kalamata olives (salty and bold) creates a dynamic briny profile.

• Fresh lemon slices and juice provide brightness and acidity.

• Whole garlic cloves, smashed, infuse the dish with savory aroma.

Herbs & Spices:

• Classic Mediterranean herbs: dried oregano, thyme.

• Red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

• Optional: capers, cherry tomatoes, or baby spinach for extra texture and color.

Liquids:

• Olive oil for searing and flavor.

• Optional: A splash of dry white wine or chicken broth enhances depth and keeps the dish moist.

These components come together to deliver a well-balanced flavor profile that’s unmistakably Mediterranean.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This dish is as much about simplicity as it is about flavor. Follow these step-by-step instructions for the best results.

Preparation:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

• Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes.

Searing the Chicken:

• In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

• Place the chicken skin-side down and sear for 4–5 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crisp.

• Flip the chicken and cook for another 3 minutes on the other side.

Assembling the Dish:

• With the chicken still in the skillet, add the lemon slices, artichoke hearts, olives, and smashed garlic cloves around the chicken.

• Pour in the fresh lemon juice and, if using, a splash of dry white wine or chicken broth for moisture and added flavor.

Baking:

• Transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven.

• Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Finishing Touches:

• Let the dish rest for 10 minutes out of the oven to allow the juices to redistribute.

• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Serve hot with your favorite side dishes or a piece of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Tips for Perfecting the Dish

Even simple dishes have secrets that take them from good to unforgettable. Here are some tips for ensuring your Mediterranean Lemon Chicken turns out perfectly every time:

Achieving Crispy Skin:

• The key is to thoroughly dry the chicken skin before searing. Moisture prevents browning and crisping.

Flavor Enhancements:

• Use high-quality marinated artichokes — they add extra herbs, acidity, and oil that amplify the dish.

• Combine multiple olive varieties (like Castelvetrano and Kalamata) for layers of flavor.

Adjusting Heat Levels:

• Customize the spice level by increasing or reducing the red pepper flakes. Add cayenne for extra heat if desired.

Alternative Cooking Methods:

• Instant Pot: Sear using the sauté function, then pressure cook for 10 minutes with ½ cup broth.

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• Sheet Pan: Spread everything on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast at 425°F for 35–40 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

What you serve alongside Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives can turn a great dish into an unforgettable meal. This dish pairs well with both hearty grains and light salads, depending on the occasion.

Side Dishes:

• White or brown rice to soak up the zesty juices

• Couscous or orzo for a true Mediterranean flair

• Roasted vegetables such as cauliflower, zucchini, or eggplant

• A refreshing Greek salad or chickpea salad for a cool contrast

Bread Options:

• Crusty baguette or sourdough bread—perfect for sopping up every last drop of the lemony, briny sauce

This meal works well for both casual dinners and elegant gatherings. Add a glass of dry white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing finish.

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Recipe Variations & Dietary Adjustments

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Here are a few ways to tweak it to suit your diet or preferences:

Protein Alternatives:

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option

• Chicken drumsticks offer a fun, finger-food twist

Vegetable Additions:

• Add fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color

• Bell peppers bring sweetness and a vibrant crunch

Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free:

• Most ingredients are naturally free of dairy and gluten

• Double-check broths and marinated items for hidden ingredients

Low-Carb / Keto Adaptation:

• Replace grains with cauliflower rice or a green salad to keep it light

• Reduce or skip wine and use chicken broth for fewer carbs

Flavor Twists:

• Add capers for an extra layer of salty brininess

• Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top after baking for a creamy, tangy finish

These variations allow you to revisit the dish over and over—never the same, always delicious.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Make the most out of leftovers with these storage and reheating guidelines:

Refrigeration:

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days

• Let the dish cool completely before sealing to prevent sogginess

Freezing:

• Freeze the chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months

• Label with the date to keep track of freshness

Reheating:

• Oven method: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes

• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth and reheat over medium heat until hot

Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the texture of the chicken skin. The oven or stovetop will deliver the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I substitute the artichokes with another vegetable?

Yes! If you’re not a fan of artichokes or don’t have them on hand, try using mushrooms or zucchini. Both will absorb the lemony, savory juices beautifully.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the dish ahead of time, refrigerate it (unbaked), and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to cook. Perfect for prepping before guests arrive.

What type of olives work best for this recipe?

A combination of Castelvetrano (mild, buttery) and Kalamata (briny, bold) olives works best. Mixing both adds depth and variety to each bite.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While fresh lemon juice is ideal for its brightness and aroma, bottled juice can be used in a pinch. Just check that it’s 100% lemon juice with no added preservatives or sweeteners.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Spice it up by adding extra red pepper flakes or a small pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also add a sliced fresno chili or a few dashes of hot sauce to the broth before baking.

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives

This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives is a vibrant, one-pan dish full of zesty lemon, briny olives, and tender marinated artichokes. It’s easy to prepare, bursting with bold Mediterranean flavor, and perfect for a healthy, gluten-free dinner that feels gourmet without the fuss.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Resting Time: 10 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Greek-Inspired, Mediterranean

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board and knife
• Oven

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients:

• 6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless if preferred)
• 1 can 14 oz marinated artichoke hearts, drained
• ½ cup Castelvetrano olives pitted
• ½ cup Kalamata olives pitted
• 2 lemons sliced + juiced
• 4 garlic cloves smashed
• Zest of 1 lemon

Herbs & Spices:

• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Liquids:
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth optional

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Pat chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes.
• Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear chicken skin-side down for 4–5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes.
• Turn off the heat. Add lemon slices, artichoke hearts, olives, and garlic around the chicken.
• Pour lemon juice and optional wine/broth into the skillet.
• Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes or until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
• Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or crumbled feta (optional) and serve.

Notes

• Artichokes: Use marinated for more flavor, but canned in water is also fine—just season accordingly.
• Olives: Try a mix of mild Castelvetrano and briny Kalamata for balance.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the dish and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
• Storage: Keeps in the fridge for 3 days or freezes for 3 months.
• Variations: Add cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to make it mild or spicy.

Keyword artichoke chicken, chicken with lemon and garlic, chicken with olives, healthy Mediterranean recipe, lemon chicken thighs, low carb chicken skillet, mediterranean chicken, one-pan chicken dinner