Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Trim the artichokes: cut off the top inch of each artichoke, snip the pointy tips of the leaves, and trim the stem so they sit flat.
Use a spoon to gently pry open the center and remove the fuzzy choke inside.
In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, Parmesan (if using), salt, and pepper.
Add lemon juice and olive oil to the mixture and stir until evenly moistened.
Gently stuff breadcrumb mixture into each leaf and center cavity.
Place artichokes upright in a baking dish. Add about 1 inch of water or broth to the bottom of the dish.
Drizzle tops with olive oil.
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Uncover and bake another 15–20 minutes, until tops are golden and artichokes are tender.