Greek Chicken Bowls

Dive into the fresh, zesty world of Greek chicken bowls! These colorful, nutrient-packed bowls burst with Mediterranean flavors, blending juicy, herb-marinated chicken, creamy tzatziki, and crisp veggies.

Perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or impressing guests, this recipe is simple, versatile, and oh-so-satisfying. You’ll love how the tangy lemon and garlic aromas fill your kitchen!

Recipe Overview

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These Greek chicken bowls deliver a perfect balance of bold, tangy flavors and varied textures. Tender, lemon-garlic marinated chicken pairs with refreshing veggies, fluffy rice, and a cool, garlicky tzatziki sauce. Ready in under an hour, this dish is easy to prepare, ideal for healthy eating, and great for customizing with your favorite toppings.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients List

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced or pounded for quick, even cooking)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (ensures juicy chicken and enhances marinade flavors)
• Juice and zest of 1 large lemon (fresh for a bright, citrusy kick)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced (fresh garlic adds bold, savory depth)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (classic Greek herb for authentic flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a subtle smoky warmth)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste for balanced seasoning)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for a slight kick)
• 1 cup uncooked basmati rice (fluffy base; quinoa or farro work too)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (juicy and sweet for freshness)
• 1 cucumber, diced (crisp and refreshing contrast)
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (sharp bite, softened by marinating)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (tangy, salty topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise)

Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt, full-fat (creamy base for rich texture)
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed dry (removes excess water for thick sauce)
• 1 garlic clove, minced (bold flavor for authentic tzatziki)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh for zesty tang)
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (classic herb for tzatziki)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (to taste)

Note: Use fresh lemon and herbs for vibrant flavors. Grate cucumber for tzatziki on the fine side of a grater.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken, toss to coat, and marinate for 15–30 minutes in the fridge for maximum flavor.
2. Cook Rice: Rinse rice under cold water. Cook according to package instructions (about 15 minutes) to yield fluffy grains. Set aside and keep warm.
3. Make Tzatziki: Grate cucumber, squeeze out excess water using a clean towel. Mix with Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, dill, and salt in a bowl. Chill until ready to serve.
4. Cook Chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
5. Assemble Bowls: Divide rice among 4 bowls. Top with sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta. Add a generous dollop of tzatziki.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately for a vibrant, fresh meal.

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Tips for Success

• Marinate Longer: If time allows, marinate chicken for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
• Pat Chicken Dry: Before cooking, pat chicken dry to achieve a golden, seared exterior.
• Squeeze Cucumber Well: Remove as much water as possible from grated cucumber to keep tzatziki thick.
• Check Chicken Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F.
• Prep Ahead: Make rice and tzatziki a day in advance to save time.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Greek chicken bowls in wide, shallow bowls for a stunning presentation. Pair with warm pita bread or a side of hummus for a complete Mediterranean feast. For a refreshing drink, try iced mint tea or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. Drizzle extra tzatziki or add a sprinkle of sumac for a vibrant, Instagram-worthy finish.

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Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Serve within 2 hours of assembling to maintain freshness.
• Refrigeration: Store components (chicken, rice, veggies, tzatziki) separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken and rice before assembling.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and rice in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight; avoid freezing tzatziki or fresh veggies.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless thighs add extra juiciness; cook for 6–7 minutes per side.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?
Try goat cheese or omit for a dairy-free option; adjust salt as needed.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Swap chicken for grilled tofu or chickpeas, marinated in the same lemon-garlic blend.

How do I prevent soggy rice?
Rinse rice before cooking and fluff with a fork after to keep grains separate.

Can I use store-bought tzatziki?
Yes, but homemade is fresher and allows flavor customization.

Conclusion

These Greek chicken bowls are a fresh, flavorful way to enjoy a healthy dinner. They’re easy, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Try them tonight and share your bowl creations!