If you’re craving a meal that’s vibrant, fresh, and packed with flavor, you’re going to love this Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe. It’s a beautiful medley of juicy marinated chicken, wholesome grains, crisp veggies, and tangy tzatziki that makes every bite an absolute delight. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, this dish brings the bright, sunny flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table with ease and a smile.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients keep things simple but play a vital role in building the authentic flavor and texture that make this dish unforgettable. From the juicy, herbaceous chicken to the creamy, refreshing tzatziki, each component shines on its own and harmonizes perfectly when combined.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that soaks up the marinade beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps keep the chicken juicy while cooking.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brings bright acidity that wakes up all the flavors.
- 2 cloves garlic minced: Offers a fragrant punch that’s essential in Greek cooking.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: The classic herb giving that unmistakable Mediterranean aroma.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other tastes and seasons the chicken perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a little gentle heat and depth.
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa: A hearty, nutritious base with nutty undertones.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved: Juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 cucumber diced: Crisp and refreshing, balancing the warm elements.
- ½ red onion thinly sliced: Sharp and slightly sweet, adding texture contrast.
- ½ cup Kalamata olives sliced: Salty, briny bites that pack plenty of flavor.
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese: Creamy, tangy, and utterly irresistible.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley: A fresh herbal finish that brightens every bite.
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (for tzatziki): The creamy base of the cool, tangy sauce.
- ½ cucumber grated and squeezed dry: Adds signature crunch and hydration to the tzatziki.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for tzatziki): Lends brightness and balances creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill: This herb gives tzatziki its distinctive fresh flavor.
- 1 garlic clove minced (for tzatziki): Provides subtle warmth and depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste (for tzatziki): Perfectly seasons the sauce for maximum flavor.
How to Make Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss your chicken breasts in this zesty marinade, making sure every piece is well coated. Letting the chicken soak in these flavors for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the fridge, is key—this time allows the bright citrus and savory herbs to truly infuse the meat so it cooks up tender and bursting with taste.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat up your grill or skillet to medium-high and cook the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes on each side until it’s beautifully charred on the outside and cooked through on the inside. That golden sear locks in juice and flavor with each bite. Once finished, let the chicken rest for around 5 minutes—this step helps the juices redistribute so every slice is succulent and moist.
Step 3: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
While the chicken cooks, mix together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, fresh dill, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This classic tzatziki adds cool creaminess and a refreshing touch to contrast the warm chicken and grains. Don’t skip squeezing the cucumber dry—that prevents the sauce from becoming watery.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Divide the cooked brown rice or quinoa among four bowls as your hearty base. Top with sliced chicken and scatter the colorful fresh veggies—red onion, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and Kalamata olives. Sprinkle a generous amount of crumbled feta and drizzle with the homemade tzatziki. Finish with a shower of chopped parsley for a pop of green and freshness. This assembly creates layers of flavor and texture that make eating these bowls such a joyful experience.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing this dish is more than just visual appeal; it adds exciting flavor contrasts. Fresh parsley and extra crumbled feta are perfect final touches, offering herbal brightness and creamy tang. For an extra punch, a squeeze of fresh lemon or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can elevate the flavors even further.
Side Dishes
This Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe pairs beautifully with some warm pita bread or crispy pita chips for scooping up every last bite. A side of hummus or a vibrant Greek salad complements it perfectly, turning the meal into a colorful Mediterranean feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the ingredients family-style and let everyone build their own bowls. You can also wrap the ingredients in warm pita or flatbread for handheld Greek-style wraps. Another idea is to swap grains for a bed of mixed greens to create a lighter, refreshing salad bowl variation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe, simply transfer any leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep the tzatziki sauce separate to maintain its refreshing texture and flavor, and add it just before serving again.
Freezing
While the chicken and grains freeze well individually, fresh veggies and tzatziki do not hold up to freezing. To prep for future meals, freeze cooked chicken and rice/quinoa in portioned containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating and adding fresh garnishes and sauce.
Reheating
Reheat chicken and grains gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. To keep the chicken tender, avoid overheating. Add fresh raw veggies, feta, herbs, and tzatziki just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful cut. Just adjust cooking time as needed since thighs can vary in thickness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe is naturally gluten-free if you choose gluten-free grains like quinoa or certified gluten-free brown rice. Just watch any packaged ingredients for additives.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the chicken for grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas for a satisfying vegetarian version. The tzatziki and fresh veggies keep the bowl fresh and delicious.
What’s the best way to cook chicken if I don’t have a grill?
A skillet works perfectly in a pinch. Just heat a nonstick or cast iron pan until hot and cook the chicken thoroughly. You can also roast the marinated chicken in the oven for convenience.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
Marinating between 30 minutes and 4 hours is ideal. Beyond that, the acid from the lemon juice can start to break down the meat’s texture, so it’s best not to go too long.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so rewarding about making this Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe that feels both wholesome and indulgent at the same time. It’s vibrant, fresh, and downright delicious—whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the week ahead. Give this recipe a try and bring a little taste of the Mediterranean sunshine right into your kitchen. I promise, once you do, it’ll become a favorite you’ll return to again and again.
Print
Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes (excluding marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A vibrant and healthy Greek Chicken Bowl featuring grilled marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and tangy tzatziki sauce served over brown rice or quinoa. Perfect for a nutritious lunch or dinner with Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Bowls
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
- Preheat Grill or Skillet: Heat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill or skillet, cooking for 6 to 8 minutes on each side until fully cooked through and lightly charred. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Prepare Tzatziki Sauce: In a small bowl, combine plain Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeezed dry), lemon juice, chopped fresh dill, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly and refrigerate until serving.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked brown rice or quinoa evenly among 4 bowls. Top each bowl with sliced grilled chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle each bowl with the prepared tzatziki sauce and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately for a fresh and flavorful meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Add hummus or pita chips for extra texture and flavor.
- These bowls are great for meal prep and can be enjoyed warm or cold.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
