Save This Mediterranean Keto Ground Chicken Skillet is a vibrant, one-pan meal that brings the bold flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your table. Featuring lean ground chicken, briny Kalamata olives, and creamy feta, this dish is perfect for anyone seeking a quick, low-carb weeknight dinner that doesn't compromise on taste.
Save The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach adds a colorful, nutrient-dense punch to every bite. This recipe is designed to be versatile, allowing you to swap greens or garnishes based on what you have in your pantry, making it a reliable staple for busy households.
Ingredients
- Protein & Dairy: 1 pound ground chicken, ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- Vegetables: 1 small yellow onion (diced), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 cup baby spinach or arugula, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- Olives & Seasonings: ½ cup Kalamata olives (pitted and halved), 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon paprika (optional), 1 tablespoon lemon juice, salt and black pepper to taste
- Oils: 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until translucent.
- Step 2
- Add the minced garlic and ground chicken. Cook, breaking up the chicken with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes.
- Step 3
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, dried oregano, paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 3–4 minutes, until the tomatoes begin to soften.
- Step 4
- Add the baby spinach (or arugula) and cook just until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
- Step 5
- Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley.
- Step 6
- Sprinkle crumbled feta over the top. Serve warm, straight from the skillet.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the greens, you can choose between baby spinach or arugula. Arugula will provide a peppery bite that complements the chicken, while spinach offers a much milder, earthy flavor.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To make this dish dairy-free, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based feta alternative. You can also add chopped bell peppers during the onion sauté for extra texture.
Serviervorschläge
Enhance the dish's richness by adding a drizzle of tahini or a dollop of Greek yogurt before serving. For an added crunch, garnish with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds.
Save This Mediterranean ground chicken skillet is a flavorful testament to how simple ingredients can create a gourmet experience. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy night in, it's a dish that will keep you satisfied and fueled.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use a different ground meat?
Yes, ground turkey or even ground beef would work well in this skillet. Adjust cooking time slightly if needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked through.
- → What can I substitute for Kalamata olives?
While Kalamata olives offer a distinct briny flavor, you could use other types like black olives, or even sun-dried tomatoes (ensure they are keto-friendly, often oil-packed) for a different twist.
- → Is this dish spicy?
No, this dish is not spicy as written. The paprika is optional and primarily adds color and a subtle smoky depth rather than heat. For a kick, you could add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
This skillet is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add fresh feta after reheating if desired.
- → What are some good sides to serve with this?
Since this is a keto dish, it's quite complete on its own. However, you could serve it with a simple green salad with a lemon-herb dressing, cauliflower rice, or steamed green beans for added vegetables.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! The recipe notes suggest substituting the feta with a plant-based alternative or simply omitting it altogether for a dairy-free version.