Mediterranean Chicken Skillet

This Mediterranean ground chicken skillet has become my weeknight staple when I crave bold flavors without the carb overload. The combination of savory chicken, briny olives, and creamy feta creates a perfect balance that transports you straight to a seaside taverna without leaving your kitchen.

I discovered this recipe during a health reset last summer and it quickly became my most requested dish when friends come over. The compliments never stop flowing when I serve this vibrant skillet.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken: This lean protein takes on flavors beautifully and cooks quickly
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Use extra virgin for authentic Mediterranean flavor
• 1⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides aromatic base flavor without chopping fresh garlic
• 1⁄2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth without the texture of actual onions
• 1⁄2 teaspoon dried oregano: Essential Mediterranean herb that defines the flavor profile
• 1⁄2 teaspoon dried basil: Adds sweet herbal notes that complement the oregano
• 1⁄4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Brings gentle heat that wakes up the other flavors
• Salt and pepper to taste: Be generous with both for proper seasoning
• 1⁄4 cup sliced Kalamata olives: Their distinct briny flavor is irreplaceable in this dish
• 1⁄4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Look for authentic Greek feta made from sheep milk for the best flavor
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds bright color and fresh finish to the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the skillet:

Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat until you can feel warmth hovering your hand above the surface. This proper preheating ensures your chicken will sear rather than steam.

Create the flavor base:

Add olive oil to the skillet and let it heat until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. This is the perfect temperature for cooking.

Cook the protein:

Add ground chicken to the skillet and immediately begin breaking it apart with a spatula into small, even pieces. Keep working it until you have a consistent texture throughout.

Season with authority:

Sprinkle the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Distribute the seasonings evenly across the entire skillet, stirring to incorporate.

Achieve perfect doneness:

Cook the chicken completely, stirring frequently for about 6-8 minutes, until no pink remains and the meat has developed some golden brown spots. These caramelized bits add tremendous flavor.

Introduce Mediterranean elements:

Add the sliced Kalamata olives to the skillet and stir to combine evenly with the chicken. The residual heat will warm the olives and release their oils.

Add the cheese finish:

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the entire chicken mixture, distributing it evenly across the surface for consistent flavor in every bite.

Melt and marry flavors:

Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Let the feta cheese slightly soften for about 2 minutes. This brief melting period allows the flavors to combine without completely melting the feta.

Final fresh touch:

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish. The heat will slightly wilt the parsley, releasing its aromatic oils.

Serve immediately:

Present the Mediterranean keto ground chicken skillet while still hot to enjoy the optimal texture and flavor combination.

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The Kalamata olives are truly the secret weapon in this recipe. When they warm in the skillet, they release their fruity olive oil that infuses the entire dish with that unmistakable Mediterranean essence. My husband once claimed he disliked olives until trying this dish, and now he requests extra in his portion.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Mediterranean chicken skillet reheats beautifully, making it perfect for batch cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually develop and improve overnight as the herbs and olive oils meld together. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying, and warm gently in a covered skillet until heated through. I often make a double batch on Sundays to enjoy throughout the busy work week.

Easy Variations

While this recipe is perfect as written, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences or use what you have on hand. Ground turkey works wonderfully as a substitute for chicken, or use beef for a richer flavor profile. For a veggie boost, add baby spinach during the last minute of cooking to wilt into the hot mixture. Consider adding a handful of sun-dried tomatoes for sweet-tart intensity, or artichoke hearts for another layer of Mediterranean flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving brightens the entire dish.

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Serving Suggestions

Though delicious on its own, this skillet pairs wonderfully with simple sides that maintain the keto-friendly profile. Serve alongside cauliflower rice to soak up the flavorful juices, or with a crisp Greek salad dressed with olive oil and red wine vinegar. For a complete feast, add a side of roasted asparagus or zucchini spears drizzled with olive oil and lemon. For non-keto guests, warm pita bread makes an excellent addition for scooping up the savory mixture.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey makes an excellent substitute for chicken in this Mediterranean skillet. You can also use ground beef if you prefer a more robust flavor profile. The cooking technique remains the same regardless of which protein you choose.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Mediterranean chicken skillet holds up well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. For best results, store in airtight containers and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave. The flavors often intensify after a day, making it perfect for meal preparation.

→ What can I serve with this Mediterranean skillet?

This dish pairs beautifully with cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb meal. Other excellent sides include a simple Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or zucchini noodles. For those not following keto, it also works well with traditional rice or warm pita bread.

→ How can I enhance the Mediterranean flavors?

To intensify the Mediterranean profile, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens all the flavors, while adding fresh herbs like dill or mint provides an authentic Mediterranean touch.

→ Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can omit the feta cheese for a dairy-free version. Consider adding nutritional yeast for a cheese-like flavor, or substitute with dairy-free alternatives like almond-based feta. The olives, herbs, and seasoned chicken will still provide plenty of Mediterranean flavor without the cheese.

→ 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 color. The meat should be white or light brown throughout. Using a meat thermometer provides the most accurate way to ensure your chicken is safely cooked.