If you are craving a dish that combines vibrant Mediterranean flavors with effortless cooking, this One Pan Greek Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Picture juicy chicken thighs with perfectly crispy skin, nestled alongside tender marinated artichokes, briny olives, and bright lemon slices, all cooked together in a single pan for maximum flavor and minimum cleanup. This dish is everything you want on a busy weeknight but with all the rich, fresh tastes that make Greek cuisine so beloved.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients keep the dish simple yet exciting. Each item plays a unique role, bringing out a harmony of textures and flavors that make the dish irresistible from the first bite.
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: The star of the dish, these provide juicy meat and crispy skin once cooked.
- 2 tbsp avocado oil: Ideal for high-heat cooking and gives the chicken skin that golden crunch.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that complements the herbs and spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a warm, savory undertone enhancing the chicken’s flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Brings a gentle sweetness and depth to the seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Essential for that authentic Greek flavor burst.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of heat, but feel free to leave it out if you prefer mild dishes.
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed: Roasts beautifully with the chicken, releasing a mellow, aromatic punch.
- ¼ cup lemon juice: Provides fresh acidity that brightens and balances the richness of the chicken.
- 1 lemon thinly sliced: Adds zesty perfume and a gorgeous pop of color nestled around the chicken.
- 8 oz marinated artichoke hearts, drained: Tender and tangy, these bring softness and a pleasant tangy bite.
- ½ cup castelvetrano olives: Buttery and mild, perfect to complement the stronger kalamata olives.
- ½ cup kalamata olives: Salty and robust, they add a rich dimension and complexity to every mouthful.
How to Make One Pan Greek Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees to get it ready for roasting. Pat each chicken thigh dry with a paper towel—this is key for crispy skin later. Season the chicken quite liberally with salt on the skin side. This helps draw out moisture and primes the chicken for that sought-after crunch.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the avocado oil. Once shimmering, carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the pan. You will hear that satisfying sizzle right away! Brown the skin until it’s a beautiful golden color, which should take around 7 to 10 minutes—resist the urge to move them early for the best crust.
Step 3: Season the Other Side and Arrange Ingredients
While the skin is crisping, season the flesh side of the chicken with black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and the optional red pepper flakes for that subtle kick. When the chicken skin turns golden brown, flip each piece over and turn off the heat. Tuck the lemon slices right in between the chicken thighs—it’s a simple trick that infuses the chicken with zesty lemon aroma.
Step 4: Add Artichokes, Olives, Garlic, and Lemon Juice
Next, scatter the drained marinated artichoke hearts around the chicken. Nestle the smashed garlic cloves and both types of olives—castelvetrano and kalamata—in and around the chicken. Pour the freshly squeezed lemon juice over everything; it brightens the whole pan and lends a fresh tartness to the dish.
Step 5: Roast to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear. The kitchen will fill with a mouthwatering aroma as the flavors meld and the chicken roasts to tender perfection.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, allow the chicken to rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period lets the juices redistribute, making every bite tender and juicy. Now, you’re ready for a stunning, flavorful plate straight from this One Pan Greek Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe!
How to Serve One Pan Greek Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or oregano add a vivid touch of green that brightens the dish visually and adds a burst of fresh herbal notes. A sprinkling of crumbled feta cheese on top also brings that signature creamy, salty tang that complements the olives beautifully. Don’t forget an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice on the plate right before serving for a zingy finish!
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that soak up its delicious juices. Try serving with fluffy couscous, steamed rice, or warm pita bread to mop up every last bit. For more vegetables, a crisp Greek salad or roasted seasonal veggies make ideal companions, turning your meal into a wholesome Mediterranean feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic family-style meal, serve the chicken directly in the skillet at the table, encouraging everyone to help themselves to the olives and artichokes. Alternatively, plate portions over an herby quinoa or orzo salad for an elegant yet relaxed dinner that impresses guests without fuss. The vibrant colors make this One Pan Greek Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe a true centerpiece wherever it’s served.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, so the reheated dish might even taste better the next day. Just make sure to cool the chicken completely before refrigerating to keep the juicy texture intact.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetables for up to 2 months. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently either in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350 degrees until warmed through. This prevents the chicken from drying out and keeps the olives and artichokes tender and juicy. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve the crisp chicken skin.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in thighs?
Absolutely! Though bone-in, skin-on thighs add more flavor and crispiness, boneless thighs can be used for quicker cooking and easier eating. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as boneless pieces cook faster.
What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?
A heavy oven-safe skillet or roasting pan will work just fine. The key is to have something that can go from stovetop to oven without any issues, so you don’t have to transfer the chicken mid-cook.
Can I substitute fresh artichokes for marinated ones?
Fresh artichokes are delicious but require more prep and cooking time. Marinated artichoke hearts save time and add a nice tangy flavor right away, which complements the olives perfectly.
Is this recipe spicy?
The dish is mildly spiced, mostly thanks to the optional red pepper flakes. You can easily leave those out if you prefer a milder taste, and the other herbs and lemon keep the flavors vibrant and fresh.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free. Just skip any optional feta garnish, and you’ll still have a wonderfully flavorful and satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
This One Pan Greek Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe is truly a little slice of Mediterranean heaven in your own kitchen. Simple to prepare and bursting with bright, bold flavors, it makes weeknight dinners something to look forward to. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become a cherished staple in your recipe collection—just like it is in mine!
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One Pan Greek Chicken with Artichokes and Olives Recipe
This one pan Greek chicken with artichokes and olives is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner featuring crispy, golden-brown chicken thighs paired with briny olives, tangy marinated artichokes, fresh lemon slices, and aromatic herbs. The dish is cooked entirely in a cast iron skillet, making cleanup easy and maintaining maximum flavor.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt, to taste (for seasoning chicken skin)
Additional Flavorings
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 8 oz marinated artichoke hearts, drained
- 1/2 cup castelvetrano olives
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for roasting the chicken and vegetables.
- Season Chicken Skin: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to ensure crisp skin, then liberally season the chicken skin side with salt to enhance flavor and promote browning.
- Sear Chicken: Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the avocado oil, then place the chicken thighs skin side down in the skillet. Cook until the skin is golden brown and crispy, about 7-10 minutes.
- Season Other Side: While the chicken is browning, season the other side of the chicken thighs with black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Assemble in Skillet: Flip the chicken thighs so skin side is up, then turn off the heat. Tuck lemon slices between the chicken pieces. Add the marinated artichoke hearts, smashed garlic cloves, castelvetrano and kalamata olives, and pour lemon juice over everything in the skillet.
- Roast in Oven: Transfer the cast iron skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for 10 minutes to retain juices. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious one pan Greek chicken with artichokes and olives!
Notes
- Patting the chicken skin dry before seasoning ensures crispiness during searing.
- If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, an oven-safe skillet or baking dish can be used, but cast iron retains heat best for even cooking.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference or omit for mild flavor.
- Letting the chicken rest after cooking helps retain juiciness.
- This dish pairs well with a side of roasted potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Halal