Low-Carb Mediterranean Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta

Low-Carb Mediterranean Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta is a flavorful and nourishing one-pan dish that brings the vibrant, sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. Packed with seasoned ground chicken, briny olives, juicy tomatoes, and creamy feta, this recipe is perfect for those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle.

This skillet meal is not only delicious but also incredibly quick and easy to make. It’s the perfect choice for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet healthy. The combination of protein-rich chicken, healthy fats from olives, and a medley of aromatic spices makes it both satisfying and nutritious.

With its versatility and irresistible flavor profile, this dish can be served as a main course, paired with a side salad, or used as a filling for lettuce wraps. Let’s explore how to create this quick and delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mediterranean Flavors

The rich combination of garlic, oregano, olives, and feta cheese creates a bold and satisfying flavor.

Keto-Friendly

Low in carbs and high in protein, this skillet dish fits perfectly into ketogenic or low-carb diets.

One-Pan Wonder

Minimal cleanup is required, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prepping.

Versatile

Serve as is, over cauliflower rice, or even stuffed into bell peppers for variety.

Family-Friendly

The savory, well-seasoned chicken and creamy feta appeal to both kids and adults.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 generous portion

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Skillet:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup green olives, sliced

For Garnish:

• 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Chicken

1. Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and smoked paprika. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

1. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and sliced olives. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.

Step 4: Finish with Feta and Parsley

1. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the skillet and let it melt slightly.
2. Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Divide the skillet among serving plates and serve warm. Pair with a side of cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Ingredient Background

Ground Chicken: A lean protein source that absorbs the Mediterranean spices beautifully. Substitute with ground turkey or beef if preferred.

Olives: Kalamata and green olives add a briny, salty element that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and creaminess of the feta.

Feta Cheese: This crumbly, tangy cheese is a Mediterranean staple that brings richness and depth to the dish.

Cherry Tomatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the savory chicken and olives.

Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that enhances the overall flavor profile of the skillet.

Technique Tips

Brown the Chicken Thoroughly: When cooking ground chicken, allow it to develop a light golden crust before breaking it apart or stirring. This caramelization enhances the dish with richer, more complex flavors while adding a satisfying texture to the meat. Use medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure proper browning.

Don’t Overcook the Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes should be cooked just until they begin to soften and release their juices. Overcooking can make them mushy and overly acidic, which may overpower the other flavors. If you prefer a firmer texture, add the tomatoes closer to the end of the cooking time.

Adjust the Spices: Start with the suggested amounts of oregano, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, but don’t hesitate to taste and adjust as you go. Adding an extra pinch of oregano or a dash of smoked paprika can transform the dish into a more robust flavor profile. Experiment with lemon zest or crushed red pepper flakes for a fresh or spicy twist.

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or cooked lentils to create a hearty, plant-based alternative. Season generously with the same spices to maintain the Mediterranean flavor.

Seafood Twist: Swap the ground chicken for shrimp, scallops, or chunks of firm white fish like cod. Cook the seafood quickly over medium heat, ensuring it doesn’t overcook and lose its tenderness.

Extra Veggies: Add a variety of vegetables to make the dish even more colorful and nutritious. Diced zucchini, spinach, artichoke hearts, or bell peppers blend seamlessly with the Mediterranean flavor profile and add extra texture and nutrients.

Cheesy Upgrade: Take the dish to the next level by sprinkling shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the skillet. Pop it under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden brown for a comforting, casserole-like finish.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration: After cooking, transfer the dish to an airtight container to keep it fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes it ideal for leftovers or meal prep. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the flavors and textures without overcooking.

Freezing: To extend the shelf life, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Label and freeze for up to 2 months. To retain the vibrant flavors and avoid mushy textures, freeze the dish before adding fresh garnishes like parsley or feta.

Reheating Tip: When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth, olive oil, or even a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors and prevent the dish from drying out. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Weeknight Dinner: For a quick and wholesome dinner, pair the skillet with simple sides like roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or cauliflower rice. These additions provide a balance of flavors and keep the meal low-carb.

Casual Gathering: For an interactive dining experience, serve the chicken in crisp lettuce cups or as part of a Mediterranean platter. Include pita bread, hummus, tzatziki, olives, and pickled vegetables so guests can customize their own plates.

Meal Prep: Divide the dish into individual containers along with low-carb sides like roasted zucchini or a fresh cucumber salad. This makes for flavorful and convenient lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Dinner Party: Present the dish as part of a Mediterranean-themed menu. Serve alongside classic dishes such as stuffed grape leaves, creamy baba ghanoush, Greek salad, and finish with a sweet dessert like baklava or lemon bars for an authentic experience.

Special Equipment

Large Skillet: Use a wide, deep nonstick or cast-iron skillet to ensure even cooking and enough room for the chicken, vegetables, and olives. A large surface area also allows for better browning.

Wooden Spoon: A wooden spoon is gentle on nonstick cookware and perfect for breaking up the ground chicken without damaging the skillet’s surface.

Citrus Juicer (Optional): A handheld citrus juicer makes it easy to extract fresh lemon juice for brightening the flavors just before serving. It’s a small investment that adds a fresh, tangy dimension to many dishes.

Chef’s Knife: A sharp, high-quality chef’s knife ensures clean, precise cuts when dicing onions, slicing tomatoes, or chopping parsley. This speeds up prep time and ensures uniform pieces for even cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use other ground meats?
Yes, ground turkey, beef, or lamb are excellent substitutes for chicken. Adjust the seasoning as needed for different flavor profiles.

2. Is this dish spicy?
No, it’s not inherently spicy. Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a little heat.

3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative like almond-based feta.

4. What other vegetables can I add?
Zucchini, eggplant, spinach, or artichoke hearts are great additions to complement the Mediterranean flavors.

5. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken can be stirred in with the tomatoes and olives to save time.

6. What’s the best way to serve this low-carb?
Serve over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or in lettuce wraps for a keto-friendly option.

7. How long does this dish last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, it will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe scales up easily. Use a larger skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Conclusion

Low-Carb Mediterranean Chicken Skillet with Olives and Feta is a simple yet flavorful dish that celebrates the bold, fresh flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Its combination of seasoned chicken, briny olives, and creamy feta makes it as comforting as it is healthy.

Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a casual gathering, this skillet meal is a guaranteed hit. Its versatility allows you to customize the ingredients to suit your preferences while keeping the preparation quick and hassle-free.

Embrace the flavors of the Mediterranean with this vibrant, satisfying skillet dish. It’s bound to become a staple in your low-carb recipe rotation!

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