Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta

Mediterranean Keto Skillet with ground chicken, olives, and feta cheese

Why Make This Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta

This Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet is a delightful dish that combines juicy ground chicken with vibrant vegetables, olives, and creamy feta cheese. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it also fits nicely into a low-carb, ketogenic lifestyle. With its rich Mediterranean flavors, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a meal prep option that keeps well throughout the week. Plus, the technique is straightforward, enabling anyone, from beginner cooks to seasoned chefs, to whip up a delicious meal in just under 30 minutes!

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

Making this skillet dish is a snap! The recipe requires just one pan, meaning minimal cleanup while maximizing taste. You’ll start by sautéing the chicken to a perfect golden brown; this adds a delicious depth to the flavor. Once the vegetables are tossed in, every ingredient works together, enhancing the overall taste and texture. Finally, the addition of feta cheese brings a creamy finish that complements the robust flavors of olives and spices perfectly.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1 medium onion (chopped)
  • 3 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)
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives (pitted and sliced)
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 1 lemon (juiced)

Directions:

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 6-8 minutes.
  3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Stir in the bell pepper, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper softens slightly.
  5. Add the cherry tomatoes and olives to the skillet. Mix well and allow the tomatoes to cook down for about 5 minutes.
  6. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the mixture and let it melt slightly into the skillet.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 350
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 30g

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

This dish shines on its own, but you can elevate your meal further. Serve it over a bed of cauliflower rice for a heartier option or alongside a fresh green salad festooned with cucumbers and Mediterranean dressing for an extra crunch. This skillet meal also works beautifully as a filling in lettuce wraps or can be served with spiralized zucchini for a fresh twist!

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

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish reheats wonderfully in the microwave, retaining its flavors and textures, which makes it a convenient meal prep option. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Expert Tips for Perfect Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta

  • Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Try to pick ripe tomatoes and vibrant bell peppers for the best results.
  • Season to taste: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your palate. If you enjoy a little heat, throw in some red pepper flakes.
  • Experiment with cheeses: If feta isn’t your favorite, substitute it with goat cheese or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

Delicious Variations

  • Add spinach or kale: Stir in a couple of handfuls of fresh spinach or kale right before removing it from the heat for added nutrients.
  • Try different proteins: Swap out the ground chicken for ground turkey or even ground beef for a different take on the dish.
  • Make it vegetarian: Replace the ground chicken with chickpeas or lentils for a satisfying vegetarian version, packing in the protein while keeping it plant-based.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    Yes! This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

  2. What can I substitute for ground chicken?
    Ground turkey, lean ground beef, or even plant-based meat substitutes can also work well in this recipe.

  3. Is this dish gluten-free?
    Absolutely! All the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerances.

Conclusion

The Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta is not only delicious but also a versatile and healthy option. It’s packed with protein, low in carbs, and rich in flavor, making it a standout meal on any dinner table. So, gather your ingredients, bring your family together, and enjoy this scrumptious dish! We hope you give this recipe a try, and when you do, feel free to share your thoughts and variations! Happy cooking!

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