Mediterranean Chicken Olive Skillet

This Mediterranean keto ground chicken skillet has become my weeknight saving grace when I crave bold flavors without the carb overload. The combination of briny olives and creamy feta creates a satisfying one-pan meal that tastes like it took hours instead of just 25 minutes.

I first created this dish during a particularly busy work week when I needed something quick but didn't want to sacrifice flavor. My family now requests it at least twice a month, and I love how versatile it is depending on what's in my fridge.

Ingredients

• Ground chicken: provides a lean protein base that absorbs Mediterranean flavors beautifully. Look for packages with at least 90% lean meat for best texture.
• Olive oil: helps prevent sticking and enhances the Mediterranean profile. Use extra virgin for more flavor.
• Garlic powder and onion powder: create depth without the chopping. Fresh minced versions work too but increase prep time.
• Dried oregano and basil: bring authentic Mediterranean herb notes. Choose bright green dried herbs rather than brown faded ones.
• Red pepper flakes: add gentle heat that balances the richness. Adjust according to your spice preference.
• Kalamata olives: provide briny saltiness that defines Mediterranean cuisine. Buy them pitted to save time.
• Feta cheese: creates creamy pockets throughout the dish. Traditional Greek feta made from sheep's milk offers the most authentic flavor.
• Fresh parsley: brightens the entire dish with color and freshness. Look for vibrant green bunches with no wilting.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the skillet:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat then add olive oil, allowing it to warm for about 30 seconds until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. A well-heated skillet ensures the chicken browns rather than steams.

Cook the chicken:

Add ground chicken to the hot skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula into small pieces. Continue breaking it up as it cooks for even browning and to prevent large clumps. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Season generously:

Sprinkle all seasonings over the cooking chicken, distributing garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper evenly throughout. Mix thoroughly to coat every bit of chicken with the aromatic blend. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until chicken is no longer pink.

Add olives:

Once the chicken is fully cooked, stir in the sliced Kalamata olives. Distribute them evenly throughout the skillet, allowing their briny flavor to permeate the meat. This takes about 1 minute.

Incorporate feta:

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the entire surface of the skillet. The cheese should not be stirred in immediately but rather allowed to sit on top of the hot chicken mixture.

Melt the cheese:

Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low. Let it cook for about 2 minutes until the feta becomes slightly soft and just begins to melt while still maintaining some of its shape.

Finish with freshness:

Remove the skillet from heat completely. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley across the top of the dish, adding bright color and a fresh flavor contrast to the rich, savory base.

Serve immediately:

Transfer the hot skillet to a heatproof surface and serve directly from the pan for a rustic presentation, or portion onto plates alongside your favorite low-carb sides.

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My absolute favorite part of this dish is how the feta cheese gets just soft enough to create creamy pockets throughout while still maintaining its distinctive tangy flavor. I remember the first time I made this for my Mediterranean-food-skeptical husband who now specifically requests "that chicken olive feta thing" at least once a week.

Make It Your Own

This Mediterranean skillet welcomes customization based on what you have available. For a deeper flavor profile, add a tablespoon of tomato paste when cooking the chicken. If you enjoy more vegetables, diced bell peppers or zucchini work beautifully added just after browning the meat. For an extra flavor dimension, consider adding a teaspoon of za'atar seasoning blend or a sprinkle of sumac for an authentic Mediterranean touch.

Storage Tips

This dish keeps remarkably well, making it perfect for meal planning. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve after a day as everything melds together. When reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent drying out, and warm gently over medium-low heat. For best results, wait to add fresh parsley until after reheating. This recipe does not freeze well due to the texture changes in the feta cheese.

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Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own, this Mediterranean chicken skillet pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement without overwhelming. Serve alongside roasted cauliflower florets tossed with olive oil and lemon zest for a complete meal. For a refreshing contrast, add a simple cucumber salad dressed with red wine vinegar and olive oil. If you're serving guests who aren't following keto, this also tastes wonderful spooned over cooked orzo pasta or with warm pita bread for scooping.

Recipe FAQs

→ What can I substitute for ground chicken in this dish?

Ground turkey or ground beef work excellently as substitutes in this recipe. Each will provide a slightly different flavor profile while maintaining the Mediterranean essence of the dish. Just ensure you cook the meat to the proper internal temperature.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Mediterranean chicken skillet stores well in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually continue to develop overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.

→ How can I enhance the Mediterranean flavors further?

To amplify the Mediterranean profile, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving. You could also incorporate fresh herbs like dill or mint, or add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil as a finishing touch.

→ What sides pair well with this Mediterranean chicken skillet?

For keto-friendly options, serve with cauliflower rice, a Greek salad, or simple grilled vegetables. If not following a keto diet, consider serving with quinoa, couscous, or warm pita bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

→ Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes! Increase the red pepper flakes to your desired heat level, or add fresh minced chili peppers while cooking the chicken. Another option is to include a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle some Aleppo pepper for a more authentic Mediterranean heat.

→ How do I know when the ground chicken is fully cooked?

Ground chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and shows no pink coloring. Since ground chicken is light in color, use a meat thermometer for accuracy rather than relying solely on visual cues.