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Flavorful Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives

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A quick and easy Mediterranean chicken dish featuring juicy chicken thighs simmered in a tangy lemon sauce with artichokes and olives. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds / 680 g)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) artichoke hearts, quartered and drained
  • 1/2 cup (75 g) green or Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • Juice of 2 medium lemons (about 1/4 cup / 60 ml)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Let rest for 5 minutes.
  2. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
  3. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the pan and cook undisturbed for 6-8 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp.
  4. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 3 minutes on the other side.
  5. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. Lower heat to medium.
  6. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  7. Stir in artichokes and olives, warming them through for 1-2 minutes.
  8. Deglaze the pan with fresh lemon juice and chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the bottom.
  9. Return the chicken thighs to the pan, skin-side up. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 15 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  10. Remove the lid and cook for another 3-5 minutes to slightly thicken the sauce, spooning it over the chicken.
  11. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top and serve immediately.

Notes

Use a heavy-bottomed pan or cast iron skillet for best heat retention and crispy skin. Avoid overcooking chicken to keep it juicy. Fresh lemon juice is essential for brightness. If sauce reduces too quickly, add a splash of broth or water. Rest chicken a few minutes after cooking for juiciness. Kalamata olives add smoky depth, but green olives can be used for a brighter flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mediterranean chicken, lemon chicken, artichokes, olives, easy dinner, quick chicken recipe, healthy chicken, chicken thighs

Find it online: https://lucydishes.com/flavorful-mediterranean-lemon-chicken-recipe-with-artichokes-and-olives-easy-and-perfect-for-dinner/