When you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor, the Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta delivers Mediterranean magic in every bite. This one-pan wonder combines lean ground chicken with briny olives, tangy feta, and aromatic herbs for a low-carb meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. The Keto Mediterranean Chicken Cauliflower Rice Skillet offers a similar flavor profile with the addition of cauliflower rice, making it perfect for those who want a more substantial meal while still maintaining ketogenic principles.

Ingredients & Kitchen Tools for Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta

Main Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium red onion, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– ½ cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
– ½ cup green olives, pitted and halved
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed
– 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried)
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Kitchen Tools:
– 12-inch cast iron skillet or large non-stick pan
– Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
– Cutting board
– Chef’s knife
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Garlic press (optional)

Possible Substitutions:
– Ground turkey can replace ground chicken
– Goat cheese can substitute for feta
– Zucchini can be added or substituted for bell pepper

Prep & Cooking Time for a Perfect Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Dish

– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 35 minutes
– Servings: 4
– Difficulty Level: Easy

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Easily

1. Heat your skillet: Place your cast iron skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

2. Cook the aromatics: Add diced onions to the heated oil and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Brown the chicken: Add ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it apart with your wooden spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Add vegetables: Incorporate the diced bell pepper and cherry tomatoes, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.

5. Introduce Mediterranean flavors: Add both types of olives, capers, oregano, thyme, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine and cook for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

6. Finish the dish: Drizzle with lemon juice, sprinkle the crumbled feta on top, and garnish with fresh parsley. Cover and let cook for 1-2 minutes until the feta slightly softens.

For those interested in the Keto Mediterranean Chicken Cauliflower Rice Skillet, simply add 2 cups of riced cauliflower after step 4, allowing it to cook with the Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta mixture for 5-7 minutes until tender.

Nutritional Benefits of This Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Recipe

– Macronutrients per serving:
– Calories: 375
– Fat: 28g
– Protein: 25g
– Net Carbs: 6g

This keto-friendly dish offers numerous health benefits:
– Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil and olives
– High-quality protein from ground chicken
– Low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for ketogenic diets
– Abundant in vitamins A, C, and K from fresh vegetables
– Good source of calcium and probiotics from feta cheese
– Contains anti-inflammatory compounds from herbs and spices

Variations, Substitutions & Cooking Tips for Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Lovers

– Spicy version: Double the red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño
– Herb-forward: Add 1 tablespoon of za’atar seasoning for an authentic Middle Eastern touch
– Creamier texture: Stir in 2 tablespoons of cream cheese before adding feta
– Protein variations: Use ground lamb or beef instead of chicken for a richer flavor
– Vegetable additions: Incorporate spinach, kale, or artichoke hearts for added nutrition

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta

1. Overcooking the chicken: Ground chicken can dry out quickly. Cook just until no longer pink.
2. Adding all ingredients at once: Layer flavors by adding ingredients at different stages.
3. Using cold feta: Allow feta to come to room temperature for better melting and flavor integration.
4. Skipping the fat: Don’t reduce the olive oil, as it’s crucial for flavor and keto macros.
5. Not tasting as you cook: Mediterranean cuisine benefits from balanced seasoning; taste and adjust accordingly.

Storage & Reheating Tips to Keep Your Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta Fresh

– Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Freezing: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month.
– Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave at 70% power in 30-second intervals.
– Refreshing: Add a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs when reheating to revive flavors.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Making Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta at Home

The Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta epitomizes quick, nutritious cooking without sacrificing flavor. This versatile dish can be adapted countless ways while maintaining its keto-friendly profile. Whether you enjoy it on its own or paired with the Keto Mediterranean Chicken Cauliflower Rice Skillet variation, you’ll be treating yourself to a taste of the Mediterranean that supports your health goals while delighting your taste buds.

FAQs About Cooking Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, this dish reheats beautifully. Prepare it up to two days ahead, but add fresh herbs and additional feta just before serving.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! Portion into meal prep containers and refrigerate for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Q: How can I increase the fat content for stricter keto requirements?
A: Add extra olive oil, increase the amount of feta, or include 2-3 tablespoons of pine nuts for additional healthy fats.

Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of ground chicken?
A: Yes, diced chicken breast works well. Cook it first, remove from the pan, then add back in at step 5.

Q: What can I serve with this dish to make it more filling while keeping it keto?
A: Serve alongside a simple green salad with olive oil dressing, keto-friendly cloud bread, or roasted low-carb vegetables like zucchini or asparagus.