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Mediterranean Chicken with Artichokes and Olives

This dish features chicken thighs seared until golden, combined with tender artichoke hearts, briny olives, and fragrant fennel seeds, all simmered in a flavorful broth. The final dish presents a hearty yet vibrant mixture with crispy skin, juicy meat, and a medley of Mediterranean flavors and textures.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces bone-in chicken thighs skin on for crispy texture
  • 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 bunch artichoke hearts quartered, fresh or jarred
  • 1/2 cup pitted olives briny, such as Kalamata or Castelvetrano
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Tongs
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of fennel seeds for aromatic flavor.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, and place the chicken thighs skin-side down.
  3. Cook the chicken without moving for about 5-7 minutes, until the skin is golden and crispy, then flip and sear the other side for another 5 minutes.
  4. Add minced garlic to the pan and stir quickly, allowing it to become fragrant—about 30 seconds—be careful not to burn it.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  6. Add the quartered artichoke hearts and pitted olives into the skillet, spreading them evenly around the chicken.
  7. Sprinkle extra fennel seeds over the mixture for a fragrant, earthy aroma, then reduce heat to low and cover the skillet.
  8. Simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, until the chicken thighs are cooked through and tender, and the flavors meld beautifully.
  9. Remove the lid and turn up the heat slightly to allow the sauce to reduce and thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes, until glossy and flavorful.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed before serving.
  11. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the vibrant flavors with crusty bread or alongside roasted vegetables.