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If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant Mediterranean flavors while keeping things low-carb and utterly satisfying, the Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Recipe is about to become your new go-to. This skillet combines juicy ground chicken with briny Kalamata olives, tangy feta, and bright bursts of cherry tomatoes, all infused with warming spices that bring each bite to life. It’s quick to prepare, packed with texture and color, and offers a comforting yet fresh meal perfect for weeknights or whenever you want to treat yourself to something wholesome and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients here are simple, fresh, and indispensable for crafting this stunning skillet. Each one plays a crucial role in creating a balance of flavors, textures, and colors that make this dish truly sing.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: The perfect fat to develop rich, caramelized flavors while cooking the chicken and vegetables.
- 1 pound ground chicken: A lean, tender protein that absorbs spices beautifully and forms the hearty base of the skillet.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed until translucent.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that complements the Mediterranean essence.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (red or green): Offers a subtle crunch and vibrant color that brightens the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Mediterranean herb that imparts an earthy, aromatic note.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds warmth and a hint of smoky complexity to the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Provides a subtle nuttiness and depth, grounding the spices harmoniously.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to enhance and balance all the varied flavors.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy bursts that soften and meld with the savory ingredients for freshness.
- 1/3 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced: The star ingredient delivering briny saltiness and Mediterranean authenticity.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds creamy, tangy richness that melts slightly, coating the skillet with irresistible flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with an herbaceous finish and lovely pops of green.
- Juice of half a lemon: Introduces a fresh citrus zing that lifts and balances the overall richness.
How to Make Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and let it cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This step is crucial because browning builds deep, savory layers of flavor that make the dish irresistible. It usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them gently until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, about 2 to 3 minutes. This softens the vegetables and releases their sweetness, perfectly complementing the savory chicken.
Step 3: Add Bell Pepper and Spices
Now stir in the chopped bell pepper, dried oregano, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the bell pepper softens slightly but still keeps some bite. These spices infuse the skillet with classic Mediterranean warmth and complexity.
Step 4: Mix in Tomatoes and Olives
Add the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced Kalamata olives to the skillet. Give everything a good stir and let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the tomatoes begin to break down and mingle with the salty brine of the olives. This melding of flavors creates a vibrant, saucy base.
Step 5: Sprinkle Feta Cheese
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the skillet. Allow it to melt slightly into the mixture, adding luscious creaminess and that signature tang that feta is known for. This cheese not only enriches the dish but also adds gorgeous texture contrasts.
Step 6: Finish with Parsley and Lemon
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in freshly chopped parsley and the juice of half a lemon. The parsley offers a bright, herbaceous note, and the lemon juice adds a refreshing citrus pop that lifts the entire dish.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Give it a quick taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Serve your Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Recipe warm for the best experience of flavors mingling and textures balancing beautifully.
How to Serve Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Recipe
Garnishes
To really elevate your skillet, consider garnishing with extra fresh parsley or a few whole Kalamata olives for visual appeal and intensified flavor. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also add luxurious richness and enhance the dish’s Mediterranean vibe.
Side Dishes
This skillet pairs wonderfully with simple, keto-friendly sides like cauliflower rice or steamed zucchini noodles to soak up those delicious juices. For extra crunch, a crisp side salad with cucumbers, olives, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors beautifully without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the skillet in individual mini cast iron pans or spoon it over roasted eggplant rounds for a stunning presentation. Wrapping the mixture in large lettuce leaves makes for a fresh handheld option, perfect for casual gatherings or light lunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Recipe, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it great for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to preserve the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Adding a splash of water or olive oil helps prevent dryness. Stir occasionally until warmed through, so you get that fresh, just-cooked taste back in every bite.
FAQs
Can I use other types of ground meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground chicken keeps it light and lean, ground turkey or even beef can be delicious alternatives. Just adjust cooking times slightly based on the meat’s fat content and texture.
Is this recipe suitable for strict keto diets?
Yes, it’s perfect for keto! The ingredients are low in carbs, with healthy fats from olive oil, olives, and feta, and high-quality protein from ground chicken. Just be mindful of the portion size of bell peppers and tomatoes, as they contain some natural sugars.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Definitely. The flavors actually deepen when the dish rests, so making it a day ahead can enhance the taste. Just store properly and reheat as described for the best results.
What can I use if I don’t have Kalamata olives?
If Kalamata olives aren’t available, green olives or other briny olives like Castelvetrano can work well. They each bring their own unique saltiness and texture that will still complement the recipe beautifully.
How can I add more vegetables to this skillet?
Feel free to toss in chopped zucchini, spinach, or even eggplant along with the bell peppers. These additions bulk up the dish with extra nutrients and keep it vibrant and tasty without disrupting the Mediterranean profile.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Recipe enough for anyone looking to enjoy a meal that is as healthy as it is flavorful. It’s a fantastic way to bring Mediterranean-inspired magic to your table in under 30 minutes. Give it a try, and it may just become one of your favorite quick dinners to make and share!
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Print
Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 30m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Keto
Description
A flavorful Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet featuring tender ground chicken cooked with vibrant vegetables, tangy Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese. This low-carb, high-protein dish is seasoned with classic Mediterranean herbs and spices, making it perfect for a quick and satisfying keto-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (red or green)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Seasonings and Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/3 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of half a lemon
Instructions
- Cook the ground chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add spices and bell pepper: Stir in the chopped bell pepper, dried oregano, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper softens slightly.
- Add tomatoes and olives: Mix in the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced Kalamata olives. Allow the tomatoes to cook down and release their juices for about 5 minutes, creating a flavorful base.
- Add feta cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the skillet mixture and let it melt slightly, blending its creamy texture with the other ingredients.
- Finish with parsley and lemon juice: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the fresh parsley and freshly squeezed lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Adjust seasonings and serve: Taste the dish and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Serve warm as a delicious, low-carb Mediterranean main course.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when adding the spices.
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground chicken if preferred.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
