Looking for a delightful, healthy dish that fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle? Look no further. The Keto Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Skillet is not only low on carbs but also bursting with iconic flavors from the Mediterranean. Quick to whip up and easy on the palate, this dish will redefine your idea of a keto meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving your whole family, this one-pan wonder becomes your best go-to recipe in a pinch.
Ingredients
Equipments
All you need for this delightful dish is a large skillet, a sharp knife, and a cutting board. These simple tools will have you cooking a meal that is as pleasing to look at as it is to eat.
How to Make Keto Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Skillet – Step By Step
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
The first thing you want to do is prepare a savory marinade. Combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and Mediterranean herbs in a shallow dish. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Allow them to sit for at least 20 minutes for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Warm up your skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and wait until it glistens. Toss in diced onions and minced garlic, stirring occasionally until they become fragrant and golden-brown.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down into the skillet. Cook until the skin is crispy, then flip the thighs to cook the other side. This should take about 6-7 minutes per side for thighs, depending on their thickness.
Step 4: Add Veggies
Remove the chicken temporarily from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add zucchini slices and bell peppers. Cook them until tender, but not overly soft, allowing them to retain a slight crunch.
Step 5: Combine and Season
Add the chicken back to the skillet with the zucchini and bell peppers. Season with salt, pepper, and additional herbs if desired. Stir everything together to unify flavors.
How to Serve Keto Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Skillet
This vibrant dish is best served hot, right from the skillet. Garnish with fresh parsley and accompany with a lemon wedge for an extra zest. Pair it with a side of cauliflower rice or a simple green salad.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Marinating the chicken longer can deepen the flavors significantly, so, if time permits, extend the marinating time. Don’t overcrowd the skillet with vegetables to avoid steaming them instead of sautéing.
Protein-Packed Variant to Energize Your Meal
Want to boost your protein intake? Consider adding a handful of chickpeas or diced tofu into the mix. Elevate this dish from a simple skillet meal to a powerhouse of protein by adding these options, making it even more satisfying and nourishing.
Lean and Green: The Low-Carb Magic of Chicken Zucchini Skillet
This dish is inherently low-carb due to the presence of chicken and zucchini as main ingredients. For an even lower carb version, you can omit higher-carb vegetables like bell peppers and replace them with even more zucchini or spinach.
Storage Instructions
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container. It can last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for best texture and flavor retention.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, you can use chicken breast, but be aware that chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
Is this dish spicy? No, this dish is not inherently spicy, but feel free to add chili flakes if you prefer some heat.
Can I make it in advance? Absolutely, this dish holds up well, so making it a day ahead can actually enhance the flavors.
Can I freeze leftovers? While the chicken can freeze well, the zucchini might lose its texture after thawing, so it’s best to consume fresh from the fridge.
What other vegetables can I add? Consider adding some olive slices or sun-dried tomatoes for more Mediterranean flair.
Tantalize Your Taste Buds with Every Bite
This Keto Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Skillet recipe is a culinary masterpiece you can easily create in your kitchen. Post your own take on this dish in the comments and let us know what you think. Don’t forget to share this delectable recipe with your friends and family or whip it up for your next dinner party!
Keto Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Skillet
Equipment
- Skillet
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil divided
- 1 lb chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium zucchini sliced
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives halved
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Add remaining olive oil, garlic, and zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until zucchini is tender-crisp.
- Return chicken to the skillet. Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and oregano. Stir to combine.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes to blend flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.