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Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes & Olives

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken is a one-pan chicken recipe made with fresh lemon, artichokes, olives, and herbs.
Ready in just 40 minutes.
Perfect for a healthy Mediterranean-inspired family dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika

For the Sauce

  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • ½ cup chicken broth replacing wine for a halal-friendly recipe
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

Add-Ins

  • 1 cup canned or jarred artichoke hearts drained and quartered
  • ½ cup green or Kalamata olives pitted and halved
  • 2 tablespoons capers optional
  • Fresh parsley or basil chopped
  • Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
  • Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet.
  • Sauté the onion for about 2 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  • Pour in the chicken broth while scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  • Add the remaining broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
  • Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce.
  • Add the artichokes, olives, and capers around the chicken.
  • Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and lemon slices before serving.
  • This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken pairs beautifully with rice, couscous, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or warm crusty bread.

Notes

  • Substitute chicken thighs for richer flavor.
  • Omit capers if you prefer a milder taste.
  • Add cherry tomatoes for extra color and sweetness.
  • Serve with roasted potatoes, rice pilaf, quinoa, or pasta.
  • Finish with extra fresh parsley and grated lemon zest for even more freshness.