Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta

If you’re looking for a quick and healthy dinner that’s bursting with flavor, let me introduce you to my favorite Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta. This dish is a delightful medley of juicy ground chicken, tangy feta cheese, and briny olives, all cooked together with fresh veggies and aromatic spices. It’s not just a meal; it’s a vibrant celebration on your plate!

This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something nutritious yet easy to whip up. It’s also great for family gatherings or meal prepping for the week ahead. Trust me, once you try this skillet dish, it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a homemade meal even on the busiest nights.
• Family-friendly: The flavors are sure to please everyone at the table, making it an instant hit with both kids and adults.
• Packed with nutrients: This dish is loaded with wholesome ingredients that keep you feeling satisfied without any guilt.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can easily prep this meal in advance and reheat it for a delicious lunch or dinner later in the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Each one adds its own unique touch to create this 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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to make it your own by trying out these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or lean beef if you prefer something different; they work wonderfully with the same spices!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Change the cheese: If you’re not a fan of feta, try goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative for a different twist.
• Spice it up: Want some heat? Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to kick things up a notch!

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

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. This step takes about 6-8 minutes. Browning the chicken ensures maximum flavor while keeping it juicy.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them until the onion turns translucent, which should take around 2-3 minutes. The aroma of sautéing onions fills your kitchen with warmth and sets the stage for deliciousness.

Step 3: Add Peppers and Spices

Stir in the chopped bell pepper along with oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for another 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper softens slightly. This blend of spices brings out those Mediterranean flavors we love!

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Olives

Now it’s time to add those beautiful cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives to your skillet. Mix everything well and allow the tomatoes to cook down for about 5 minutes. This makes everything juicy while infusing all those flavors together.

Step 5: Melt in Feta Cheese

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over your skillet mixture. Let it melt slightly into the dish—this adds creaminess that perfectly balances out the other ingredients.

Step 6: Finish It Off

Remove your skillet from heat and stir in fresh parsley along with lemon juice. This brightens up all those rich flavors! Don’t forget to taste before serving; adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Now you’re ready to enjoy! Serve your Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet warm and watch as everyone digs in happily.

With this vibrant dish on your table, you’ll be savoring every bite while knowing you’ve made something wholesome and delightful!

Pro Tips for Making Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta

Cooking should always feel fun and rewarding! Here are some pro tips to take your Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet to the next level.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile of your dish. The brightness of fresh herbs can elevate the overall taste, making every bite more enjoyable.

• Customize your veggies: Feel free to swap in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or spinach. This flexibility not only keeps the dish exciting but also maximizes nutritional value.

• Adjust the spices: If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking. This small adjustment can give your dish an extra kick that complements the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.

• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together. This simple step can intensify the overall taste, making it even more delicious when served.

• Top with additional feta: For those who love feta, consider sprinkling a bit more on top just before serving. It adds an extra layer of creaminess and tang that will delight your taste buds!

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

Presentation matters, especially when serving a colorful dish like this one! Here are some ideas to make your skillet meal shine at dinner time.

Garnishes

• Lemon wedges: Adding lemon wedges not only looks lovely but allows diners to squeeze fresh juice over their servings for an additional burst of flavor.

• Chopped olives: A sprinkle of extra sliced Kalamata olives on top provides a delightful salty finish and enhances visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Cauliflower rice: This low-carb alternative is perfect for soaking up the juices from your skillet. Simply sauté cauliflower rice in a little olive oil until tender for a fluffy side that complements the main dish beautifully.

• Greek salad: A refreshing Greek salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and olives tossed in olive oil and lemon juice pairs wonderfully. Its crispness balances out the richness of the skillet meal.

• Roasted asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus is another fantastic side that adds texture and nutrition. Simply toss asparagus spears in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender.

• Zucchini noodles (zoodles): Spiralized zucchini makes for a fun and healthy pasta alternative. Sauté briefly before serving; they’ll soak up all those delicious flavors without adding too many carbs!

Enjoy every moment as you create this delightful Mediterranean masterpiece!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta is perfect for meal prep! Its vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients make it a fantastic option to prepare in advance, ensuring you have delicious meals ready to go throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy the dish within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Allow the skillet to cool completely before sealing it for storage.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months; label each container with the date.
• For best results, try to freeze individual portions for easy thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.
• You can also use a microwave, heating in short bursts and stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe that might help you further!

Can I make Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta without feta cheese?

Absolutely! You can replace feta with a dairy-free cheese alternative or simply omit it. The dish will still be delicious and full of flavor.

How do I serve Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta?

This dish can be served alone or over a bed of leafy greens or cauliflower rice for an extra veggie boost. It’s versatile and pairs wonderfully with many sides!

What other veggies can I add to Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta?

Feel free to experiment! Zucchini, spinach, or even artichokes would complement this dish beautifully while keeping it healthy and low-carb.

How long does it take to make Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta?

This quick dinner can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights!

Final Thoughts

I hope you love making this Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta as much as I do! It’s not just a feast for your taste buds but also a nourishing option that fits perfectly into your healthy eating routine. Enjoy every bite, share it with loved ones, and don’t hesitate to explore your own variations. Happy cooking!