Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe

Fresh, flavorful, and packed with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients, Greek Chicken Bowls are a healthy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. These bowls are customizable, meal-prep friendly, and a surefire crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious lunch option, this recipe has you covered.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

Greek Chicken Bowls stand out for several reasons:

1. Bursting with Flavor: Featuring a deliciously seasoned chicken marinade, vibrant veggies, and creamy tzatziki sauce.
2. Perfect for Meal Prep: Assemble ingredients ahead of time for an easy grab-and-go meal.
3. Customizable: Adaptable to various dietary needs, from gluten-free to dairy-free options.

Ingredients Overview

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these vibrant Greek Chicken Bowls:

For the Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts (about 500g): Boneless and skinless.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: For a juicy marinade.
• Juice of 1 lemon: Adds tangy brightness.
• 3 cloves garlic: Minced for a bold flavor.
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano: Classic Mediterranean seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: For a subtle smoky flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.

For the Bowls:

• 2 cups cooked quinoa or rice (about 360g): Base of the bowl; choose your favorite grain.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (150g): Halved for freshness.
• 1 large cucumber (150g): Diced.
• 1/2 red onion: Thinly sliced for crunch and flavor.
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives: Pitted for an authentic Greek taste.
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (60g): Creamy and tangy topping.

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (240g): Creamy base for the sauce.
• 1/2 cucumber: Grated and squeezed to remove excess water.
• 1 clove garlic: Minced or grated for a bold kick.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness.
• Juice of 1/2 lemon: Brightens the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill or mint: For a refreshing herbaceous flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls: For marinating chicken and making the sauce.
• Non-stick skillet or grill pan: To cook the chicken evenly.
• Cutting board and knife: For prepping vegetables.
• Grater: For the cucumber in the tzatziki sauce.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise seasoning.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade:

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor).

2. Cook the Chicken:

Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.

3. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:

In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh dill or mint. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

4. Prepare the Bowl Ingredients:

Cook the quinoa or rice according to package instructions. Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the red onion, and gather the olives and feta cheese.

5. Assemble the Bowls:

Divide the cooked quinoa or rice into bowls as the base. Layer with sliced chicken, fresh vegetables, olives, and feta. Drizzle generously with tzatziki sauce and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Building the Perfect Bowl

The key to a great Greek Chicken Bowl is balance:

• Grain Base: Use quinoa, rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Protein: Marinated chicken for juicy flavor or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Fresh Veggies: Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and onions for a crunch.
• Creamy Sauce: Tzatziki ties it all together with a refreshing kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve in a large bowl for a hearty meal or as smaller portions for a party platter.
• Pair with pita bread or homemade hummus for a complete Mediterranean feast.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of za’atar or extra dill for an elevated presentation.

Tips and Customizations

1. Make It Dairy-Free: Swap Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt for the tzatziki sauce.
2. Add More Veggies: Roasted bell peppers, spinach, or artichokes make excellent additions.
3. Try Alternate Proteins: Use lamb, shrimp, or chickpeas for variety.
4. Amp Up the Flavor: Add a dash of red chili flakes for a spicy twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Marinade: The marinade infuses the chicken with flavor; don’t rush this step.
2. Overcooking the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to avoid dry chicken.
3. Watery Tzatziki Sauce: Be sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the grated cucumber.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Storage: Store individual ingredients in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat chicken and grains in the microwave or on the stovetop. Keep veggies and tzatziki sauce cold for freshness.

FAQ Section

Can this recipe be made low-carb?
Yes! Use cauliflower rice instead of quinoa or regular rice.

Can I make the bowls ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store ingredients separately and assemble when ready to eat.

What other dressings can I use?
If you’re out of tzatziki, try a lemon tahini dressing or a light Greek vinaigrette.

Conclusion

These Greek Chicken Bowls are the perfect blend of vibrant, Mediterranean flavors and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a flavorful dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and subscribe for more delicious ideas.

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