Mediterranean Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Artichokes Recipe

Say hello to your new favorite weeknight dinner—Mediterranean Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Artichokes. This dish is a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that’s effortlessly elegant yet wonderfully simple to prepare. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’re dining al fresco on a Greek island—even if you’re just at your kitchen table after a long day. Juicy chicken is seared to golden perfection and simmered in a tangy, herby sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and marinated artichokes. The result is a deeply savory and satisfying dish that comes together in one skillet and under 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Convenient: This is a true one-pan wonder, ready in under half an hour and with minimal cleanup.
• Big Mediterranean Flavor: Think briny artichokes, sweet-tart sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs—each bite bursts with bold flavor.
• Healthy-ish Comfort Food: Lean chicken breast and vegetables make this dish both comforting and nourishing.
• Perfectly Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or even cauliflower mash for a low-carb option. It’s a fantastic go-to for guests or cozy nights in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Boneless and skinless, perfect for fast cooking and soaking up all that flavor.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Use the oil-packed kind for maximum richness. The oil adds flavor and helps build the sauce base.
• Artichoke hearts: Go for marinated artichokes in a jar for the best texture and flavor. Their tanginess balances the dish beautifully.
• Garlic: Minced garlic brings warmth and aromatic depth—don’t skimp!
• Shallots or onion: A subtle sweetness to round out the briny and tangy flavors.
• Chicken broth: Helps deglaze the pan and creates a light sauce that ties everything together.
• Lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the richness of the sun-dried tomatoes.
• Capers (optional): For an extra pop of salty, briny flavor—perfect for true Mediterranean lovers.
• Fresh parsley or basil: A fresh herb finish makes everything sing.
• Olive oil: Used for searing the chicken and sautéing aromatics—use the good stuff if you’ve got it.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer.

Variations

• Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream at the end for a silkier, richer sauce.
• Add Greens: Throw in a handful of baby spinach or kale for extra veggies and color.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil if you like some heat.
• Cheesy Option: Top with crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan before serving.
• Different Protein: Try it with shrimp or chickpeas for a pescatarian or vegetarian version.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Artichokes

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add a bit more oil (use the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes if available), then sauté the garlic and shallots until fragrant and translucent.

Step 3: Build the Flavor

Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and artichoke hearts to the skillet, stirring to combine. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.

Step 4: Simmer the Chicken

Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the top. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 8–10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Remove the skillet from heat. Add chopped fresh herbs, capers if using, and an extra squeeze of lemon juice. Give everything a gentle stir, and it’s ready to serve.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Rush the Sear: Let the chicken develop a deep golden crust before flipping—it locks in moisture and builds flavor.
• Use the Tomato Oil: That flavorful oil from the sun-dried tomatoes is liquid gold. Use it to sauté the aromatics and bring even more depth to the sauce.
• Deglaze Like a Pro: After sautéing, always scrape the pan well with the broth to incorporate those browned bits—flavor central!
• Slice Before Serving: Slice the chicken before plating so it soaks up more sauce and is easier to eat.

How to Serve

This dish is endlessly pairable. Here are some favorite ways to enjoy it:

Over Grains:

Serve it over a bed of couscous, rice, or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce.

With Pasta:

Toss it with orzo, angel hair, or penne for a heartier meal.

Low-Carb Options:

Pair it with sautéed zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to keep it light.

Side Dish Ideas:

A crisp Greek salad, roasted asparagus, or a hunk of crusty bread to mop up that glorious sauce are all top-tier choices.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors get even better as they sit!

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Just let it cool, then store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce, or microwave on medium power until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking. Pat it dry to ensure a nice sear and avoid excess water in the pan.

Are canned artichokes okay to use instead of jarred?
Absolutely! Just make sure to drain and rinse them well. Marinated jarred artichokes have more flavor, but canned ones still work great.

Can I make this in the oven instead of on the stove?
Yes, after searing the chicken and combining all ingredients, you can bake it in a covered dish at 375°F for about 20–25 minutes.

What wine pairs well with this dish?
A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the tangy, herbaceous flavors perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Mediterranean Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Artichokes is a dish that checks all the boxes: simple, stunning, and full of flavor. It’s the kind of recipe that feels special without requiring much effort—just good ingredients and a little love. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this one-skillet wonder is sure to impress. Give it a try and let it become a staple in your kitchen!

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