Introduction
Brighten up your dinner table with this flavorful Mediterranean Lemon Chicken, complemented by artichokes and olives. This dish is a delightful blend of savory and tangy flavors, perfect for any occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approx. 680g)
30ml olive oil
1 lemon, zest and juice (approx. 60ml lemon juice)
2 teaspoons dried oregano (approx. 4g)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (approx. 2.5g)
1/2 teaspoon salt (approx. 3g)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (approx. 1g)
150g artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
75g Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
10g fresh parsley, chopped
120ml chicken broth
1 tablespoon capers (optional, approx. 15g)
Prep Time
40 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a large dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they’re well coated. Allow to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
4. In an oven-safe skillet over medium heat, sear the chicken breasts for about 3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
5. Add the artichoke hearts, Kalamata olives, and capers (if using) to the skillet. Pour the chicken broth over the top.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the middle.
7. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended, creating a fragrant marinade that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a large dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes – the longer, the better, as this allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to preheat at 180°C (350°F) so it’s ready for the chicken once it’s seared to a golden perfection.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts. Sear each side for about 3 minutes until nicely browned, releasing a mouthwatering aroma that will make your kitchen irresistible.
Step 5: Add Artichokes and Olives
In the same skillet, add the chopped artichoke hearts and sliced Kalamata olives. If you choose, sprinkle in the capers for an extra burst of flavor. Pour the chicken broth over the mixture, enhancing both moisture and richness.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center. The dish will bubble with savory goodness while the chicken absorbs the vibrant flavors.
Step 7: Final Touch
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley. This final touch adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
Notes
Cooking Tips
Ensure your chicken breasts are of even thickness to promote uniform cooking. You may gently pound them to an even thickness if necessary.
Serving Suggestions
This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken pairs beautifully with a side of couscous or a vibrant salad for a well-rounded meal, enhanced with crusty bread to soak up the tasty broth.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
Optional Additions
Feel free to customize by adding other Mediterranean vegetables like bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes, or even sprinkle feta cheese for a salty, creamy twist.
Cook Techniques
Marinating
Marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper helps to infuse the flavors and tenderize the meat, making it more flavorful.
Searing
Searing the chicken breasts in an oven-safe skillet before baking creates a golden-brown crust that enhances the dish’s presentation and adds depth to the flavor through the Maillard reaction.
Baking
Baking the chicken in the oven ensures even cooking and allows it to absorb the flavors of the artichokes, olives, and chicken broth, resulting in a juicy and tender final dish.
Garnishing
Garnishing with fresh parsley before serving adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish, enhancing both its appearance and flavor.
FAQ
Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. They may require a slightly longer cooking time.
What can I use instead of Kalamata olives?
If you don’t have Kalamata olives, you can substitute with green olives or any other type of pitted olives that you prefer.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
While marinating enhances flavor and tenderness, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and proceed directly to searing the chicken.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes, you can add vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and is no longer pink in the center. You can also cut into it to check that the juices run clear.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Artichokes and Olives is a vibrant dish that combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the savory undertones of artichokes and olives. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavors that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this dish promises to impress your guests and satisfy your family.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Garlic Herb Roasted Vegetables
Complement your chicken with a side of garlic herb roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, tossed in olive oil and herbs.
Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad
A refreshing quinoa tabbouleh salad adds a nutritious and herbaceous element to your meal, featuring parsley, mint, tomatoes, and a lemon dressing.
Mediterranean Farro Bowl
Serve your chicken on a bed of farro topped with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil for a hearty and nutritious dinner.
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers
Stuff bell peppers with a mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs for a vibrant and healthy side dish that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
Herbed Couscous
Fluffy herbed couscous infused with lemon and fresh herbs can be a perfect accompaniment, adding a light, fluffy texture to your meal.
Classic Greek Tzatziki Sauce
Prepare a refreshing tzatziki sauce with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill for a cool dip or condiment that enhances the Mediterranean flavors of your chicken.
