Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta

If you’re looking for a quick and healthy dinner that’s bursting with flavor, then this Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta is just the ticket! This dish has become a favorite in my home because it’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrition. The combination of juicy ground chicken, tangy feta cheese, and briny olives creates a delightful symphony of tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.

The best part? It comes together in just 30 minutes! That means more time enjoying delicious food and less time worrying about what to cook. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate vibrant Mediterranean flavors into your meals without all the carbs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This dish can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Family-friendly: The flavors are mild yet delicious, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies, it’s a nutritious choice.
• Versatile options: You can easily customize this skillet to suit your taste preferences.
• Make-ahead friendly: Leftovers taste even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! These simple, wholesome components come together beautifully in this Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to make it your own! Here are some fun ways you can switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or beef instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in zucchini or spinach for an extra boost of nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: If feta isn’t your favorite, try a soft goat cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
• Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes or cayenne for a bit of heat if you’re feeling adventurous!

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

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. This takes about 6-8 minutes. Browning the chicken develops rich flavors that are essential for our dish.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial as sautéing enhances their sweetness and adds depth to our skillet.

Step 3: Add Veggies and Spices

Stir in the bell pepper, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper softens slightly. These spices bring warmth and aromatic flavors that truly define Mediterranean cuisine.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Olives

Add the cherry tomatoes and olives to the skillet. Mix well and allow everything to cook down for about 5 minutes. The tomatoes will release their juices, creating a delightful sauce that binds all ingredients together.

Step 5: Sprinkle with Feta

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the mixture and let it melt slightly into the skillet. This creamy layer adds richness that balances beautifully with the other flavors.

Step 6: Finish with Freshness

Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice. This brightens up the entire dish! Taste it now—feel free to adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Serve warm straight from the skillet! Enjoy every bite of this Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta; it’s bound to become one of your go-to recipes too!

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

Cooking should be enjoyable, and these tips will help you make your Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet even more delightful!

• Prep Your Ingredients Ahead: Having all your veggies chopped and spices measured out before cooking saves time and makes the cooking process smoother. This way, you can focus on enjoying the cooking experience rather than scrambling at the last minute.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a burst of flavor and color to your dish. Don’t skip it! Fresh herbs bring brightness and complexity that dried herbs simply can’t replicate.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you love a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or using a spicier pepper. Experimenting with spices allows you to customize the dish to suit your palate perfectly.

• Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the skillet to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully and enhances the overall taste of the dish.

• Make It Ahead: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to three days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Reheating it brings back its delicious flavors, providing a quick meal option during busy days.

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

This vibrant skillet dish is not only delectable but also visually appealing! Here are some creative ideas on how to present this meal beautifully on your table.

Garnishes

• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving enhances the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.
• Extra Feta Crumbles: Sprinkling additional feta on top just before serving adds an extra layer of creaminess that complements the dish wonderfully.

Side Dishes

• Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed or spiralized zucchini noodles serve as a low-carb alternative to pasta, making them a perfect base for this flavorful skillet.

• Cauliflower Rice: Fluffy cauliflower rice is an excellent side that absorbs all those wonderful juices from the chicken skillet while keeping it keto-friendly.

• Greek Salad: A simple Greek salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and olives tossed in olive oil is refreshing and pairs perfectly with the robust flavors of the skillet.

• Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with salt complements this dish nicely while adding some crunch!

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a delightful meal that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every bite of your Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making busy weeknights a breeze. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the skillet mixture to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta in the Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta?

Absolutely! While feta adds a unique tanginess, you can substitute it with crumbled goat cheese or even mozzarella for a milder flavor.

How can I make the Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta spicier?

For added heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the veggies. Adjust according to your spice preference!

What vegetables can I add to this dish?

Feel free to customize by adding spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just make sure they’re chopped into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes! This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also stores well, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Definitely! Ground turkey works just as well and gives you a leaner option while still keeping the flavors intact.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta as much as I do! It’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with vibrant flavors that will brighten your dinner table. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a quick dinner, this dish is sure to delight. Happy cooking!