Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta

Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta is a delightful dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. This healthy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or meal prep days. The combination of juicy ground chicken, salty olives, and creamy feta creates a savory meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s quick to make and loaded with fresh ingredients!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The mix of spices and fresh veggies creates a delicious flavor profile that excites the palate.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from ground chicken and healthy fats from olives and feta, this meal fits perfectly into a keto lifestyle.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup as everything cooks in one skillet, saving you time on dishes.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking the ground chicken and vegetables together without overcrowding.
• Chef’s knife: Essential for chopping veggies quickly and efficiently to save time during prep.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring ingredients to ensure even cooking without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

This vibrant skillet dish combines juicy ground chicken, tangy feta, and briny olives, all sautéed with fresh veggies and spices for a deliciously healthy meal.

For the Skillet

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (red or green)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/3 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of half a lemon

How to Make Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta

Step 1: Heat Olive Oil

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 2: Cook Ground Chicken

Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon for about 6-8 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Bell Pepper and Spices

Stir in the bell pepper along with oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper softens slightly.

Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes and Olives

Add the cherry tomatoes and olives to the skillet. Mix well and allow them to cook down for about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Sprinkle Feta Cheese

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the mixture. Let it melt slightly into the skillet.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

Remove from heat. Stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving warm.

How to Serve Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta

Serving your Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta can elevate your meal experience. This dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides or garnishes to enhance its flavors.

With Fresh Salad

• A side salad made with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the skillet.

Over Cauliflower Rice

• Serving the dish over cauliflower rice adds a low-carb base while absorbing the delicious juices from the chicken and vegetables.

Wrapped in Lettuce Leaves

• Use large lettuce leaves as wraps for a fun, hands-on eating experience that keeps it light and fresh.

Topped with Avocado

• Slicing fresh avocado on top adds creaminess and healthy fats, enhancing the Mediterranean flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Pairing with a slice of crusty bread can help soak up any remaining juices, making each bite delightful.

Garnished with Extra Feta

• Sprinkling additional crumbled feta on top before serving adds an extra burst of tanginess and flavor.

How to Perfect Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta

To ensure your Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet is perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose quality ground chicken – Using fresh, high-quality ground chicken will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
• Adjust spices to taste – Feel free to adjust the amount of oregano and smoked paprika based on your personal preferences for a customized flavor.
• Use ripe tomatoes – Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes for maximum sweetness and juiciness in your skillet.
• Don’t overcook the vegetables – Keep veggies slightly crisp for a better texture contrast against the tender chicken.
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together.
• Experiment with different olives – Try using various types of olives for unique flavor profiles that can change each time you make this dish.

Best Side Dishes for Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta

Pairing side dishes with your Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent pairing options.

1. Zucchini Noodles – Spiralized zucchini offers a low-carb alternative that complements the skillet beautifully.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A medley of roasted vegetables like bell peppers and eggplant adds color and nutrition.
3. Greek Yogurt Dip – A creamy dip made from Greek yogurt mixed with herbs makes a refreshing accompaniment.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Stuff bell peppers with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a hearty side filled with flavor.
5. Cucumber Salad – A simple cucumber salad provides crunch and freshness, balancing out richer flavors.
6. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly grilled asparagus drizzled with lemon brings brightness to your plate.
7. Olive Tapenade – Serve alongside olive tapenade on crostini or crackers for an added layer of Mediterranean taste.
8. Chickpea Salad – A chickpea salad tossed in lemon juice and herbs offers protein while staying within keto guidelines.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish.

• Not seasoning properly: Skipping salt and pepper can lead to a bland dish. Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Aim for a tender-crisp texture by sautéing just until softened.
• Using low-quality olives: Low-quality olives can overpower the dish. Choose good quality Kalamata olives for the best flavor.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Omitting fresh parsley or lemon juice will reduce freshness. Add them just before serving for a burst of flavor.
• Neglecting prep time: Not prepping ingredients beforehand can lead to chaos in the kitchen. Chop and measure everything before starting to cook.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that maintains similar flavors and textures in this recipe.

How can I customize this Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta?

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or substitute feta with a dairy-free cheese alternative for different flavors.

What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet pairs wonderfully with cauliflower rice or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet is perfect for meal prep as it reheats well and stays flavorful over time.

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. It makes for an excellent quick dinner option that is both healthy and satisfying. Give it a try; you’ll love how easy it is to prepare!