Get ready to fall in love with the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of juicy ground chicken, briny Kalamata olives, tangy feta, and bright vegetables, all coming together in a quick, nourishing skillet meal that’s both keto-friendly and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re chasing bold taste or a wholesome dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this recipe is an absolute winner that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet incredibly potent, each adding its own burst of flavor, texture, or color to this Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Recipe. From the rich ground chicken to the zing of fresh parsley, every component plays a vital role in creating a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
- Olive oil: The perfect fat for sautéing, it lends a fruity richness and helps marry all the flavors.
- Ground chicken: A lean protein that cooks up tender and soaks in spices beautifully.
- Small onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Provides aromatic warmth to every bite.
- Bell pepper, chopped: Offers color, crunch, and a slight sweetness to balance savory notes.
- Dried oregano: The quintessential Mediterranean herb that brings earthy, herbal flavors.
- Smoked paprika: Lends a deep, smoky complexity that elevates the dish.
- Ground cumin: Adds a warm, nutty undertone for an extra layer of intrigue.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to round out the flavor profile.
- Cherry tomatoes, halved: Bursting with juicy freshness and acidity.
- Kalamata olives, sliced: Salty, briny, and perfect for that authentic Mediterranean touch.
- Feta cheese, crumbled: Creamy and tangy, it melts slightly to create a luscious finish.
- Fresh parsley: Brightens the skillet with freshness and color.
How to Make Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Start by warming one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This creates the perfect base for sautéing your ingredients and infuses a subtle fruity flavor right from the start.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Chicken
Add the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Allow it to brown nicely over 6 to 8 minutes. This step builds a lovely savory foundation that makes every bite juicy and flavorful.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, stir in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onions turn translucent and fragrant, about 2 to 3 minutes. This adds a mellow sweetness and fragrant warmth that’s absolutely essential.
Step 4: Add Bell Pepper and Spices
Throw in the chopped bell pepper along with dried oregano, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook everything together for 3 to 4 minutes until the peppers soften. These spices infuse the skillet with layers of authentic Mediterranean aroma and taste.
Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes and Olives
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced Kalamata olives. Let the mixture cook for about 5 minutes to meld all those rich, briny, and juicy flavors perfectly.
Step 6: Sprinkle with Feta Cheese
Generously sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the skillet’s surface. Allow it to melt just slightly, adding a creamy, tangy contrast to the savory mix beneath.
Step 7: Finish with Fresh Parsley and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in fresh parsley leaves along with a splash of lemon juice if you like that extra brightness. This final touch takes the dish from fantastic to unforgettable.
How to Serve Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs such as parsley or even a sprinkle of chopped fresh mint enhance the dish’s freshness, while a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds a glossy finish. For a little extra zing, a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving works wonders.
Side Dishes
This skillet shines on its own as a low-carb meal, but it also pairs beautifully with a fresh Greek salad, a side of steamed green veggies, or some cauliflower rice to keep things keto-compliant while rounding out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Recipe family-style in the skillet for a rustic feel, or plate it neatly over a bed of zucchini noodles for an elegant keto-friendly twist. Adding a dollop of tzatziki on the side can transform it into a vibrant, complete dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a fantastic next-day option for a quick, healthy lunch or dinner.
Freezing
This skillet freezes beautifully. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low to medium heat or microwave until warmed through, being careful not to overcook the feta or dry out the chicken. A quick toss with a splash of olive oil can revive the creaminess perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use another type of ground meat instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, pork, or even beef will work well. Keep in mind the flavor will change slightly depending on the meat, but all options will be delicious in this Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for strict keto diets?
Yes, it’s packed with low-carb ingredients and healthy fats, making it a great choice for keto. Just make sure to pair it with low-carb sides or vegetables to stay within your carb limits.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can definitely prep the ingredients in advance, like chopping veggies or crumbling the feta. Cooking and assembling it fresh is best, but leftovers store well for easy reheating later.
What can I substitute for Kalamata olives if I don’t have any?
If Kalamata olives aren’t available, try using green olives or even capers for a similar briny kick. Each variation brings its own unique twist to the dish.
How spicy is this dish? Can I make it milder or spicier?
This recipe is naturally mild but packed with flavor. If you want a little heat, feel free to add some crushed red pepper flakes or fresh chili. For a milder version, just reduce or omit spicy seasonings.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with Mediterranean charm and fits perfectly into a keto lifestyle, this Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Recipe is a must-try. It’s quick, incredibly flavorful, and satisfying, proving healthy eating can be absolutely delicious. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and share it with those you love!
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Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet is a vibrant, low-carb dish packed with flavorful ingredients like ground chicken, olives, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. Perfect for a quick and healthy dinner, it combines aromatic spices and fresh parsley to deliver a delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s both satisfying and keto-friendly.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- â…“ cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the chicken and vegetables.
- Cook ground chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Stir in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté the mixture until the onions become translucent, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Add spices and bell pepper: Incorporate the chopped bell pepper along with dried oregano, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper softens.
- Mix in tomatoes and olives: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced Kalamata olives; cook for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add feta cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the skillet mixture and allow it to melt slightly to add a creamy texture.
- Finish and garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in fresh parsley for a fresh herbal note before serving warm.
Notes
- To keep the dish keto-friendly, omit any optional sweet ingredients or starchy sides.
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.
- Substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or lean ground beef if preferred.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
