Are you craving a healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy dinner? Look no further! This Lemon Chicken Artichoke recipe is your answer. It's a delightful blend of tender chicken, tangy lemon, and hearty artichoke hearts, all coming together in a quick and satisfying dish. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's one of those delicious dishes that's both impressive and effortlessly simple to make, making it ideal for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all skill levels. Let's dive into this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 14 oz can artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of your dish.
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Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Simmer in Lemon Goodness: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Add the artichoke hearts, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened and the chicken is tender.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Lemon Chicken Artichoke hot, optionally garnished with grated Parmesan cheese. This dish pairs perfectly with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips for Lemon Chicken Artichoke Perfection:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the chicken, work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Taste and adjust: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You might want to add more lemon juice for extra tang or salt for extra savory flavor.
- Fresh herbs are best: Using fresh parsley and oregano will significantly elevate the flavor of this dish.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Creamy Delight: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Vegetable Boost: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach along with the artichoke hearts.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This Lemon Chicken Artichoke recipe is a testament to how easy it is to create healthy meals that are both delicious and satisfying. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!