Description
Mediterranean lemon chicken dazzles with zesty citrus and briny Mediterranean flavors, marrying tender chicken with tangy artichokes and rich olives. Sunlight-soaked ingredients create a simple yet elegant dish that brings Greek coastal charm directly to your dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Fresh Produce and Herbs:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
- 1/2 cup mixed olives (green and black)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the protein by seasoning chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then create a golden sear in heated olive oil over medium-high heat. Develop a rich caramelized exterior for approximately 5 minutes on the skin side, then flip and cook an additional 3 minutes before transferring to a separate plate.
- Utilize the same skillet to transform aromatic foundations by gently sweating sliced onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and release their fragrant essence.
- Introduce dry white wine to deglaze the pan, carefully scraping accumulated flavor-rich browned bits from the cooking surface. Allow liquid to reduce and concentrate its complex profile.
- Construct a vibrant Mediterranean landscape within the skillet by incorporating chicken broth, oregano, red pepper flakes, briny artichoke hearts, robust olives, and bright lemon slices. Gently integrate these ingredients to create a harmonious blend.
- Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the fragrant liquid, ensuring skin remains exposed. Cover and allow gentle simmering for approximately 20 minutes, enabling chicken to become supremely tender while absorbing surrounding flavors.
- Elevate the dish’s visual and herbaceous appeal by scattering fresh parsley across the surface. Serve immediately alongside complementary accompaniments like fluffy rice, nutty quinoa, or crisp seasonal salad.
Notes
- Pick bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness during cooking.
- Allow chicken to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before searing to ensure even cooking and beautiful golden-brown color.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to distribute heat evenly and prevent burning while developing rich caramelization.
- Opt for high-quality jarred artichoke hearts packed in water or olive oil for the best texture and taste in the dish.
- Reduce sodium by using low-sodium chicken broth and rinsing canned olives before adding them to the skillet.
- Swap chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner protein option, adjusting cooking time to prevent dryness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg