There’s something magical about a meal that feels like sunshine on a plate—bright, fresh, and utterly satisfying. That’s exactly what these Greek Chicken Bowls bring to the table. I first fell in love with this dish on a lazy summer evening when I needed something quick yet vibrant, something that wouldn’t keep me in the kitchen for hours but still tasted like a celebration. The moment I took my first bite, with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and that tangy tzatziki, I knew this would become a regular in my rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to bring these Greek Chicken Bowls to life:
- Chicken breast or thighs – Thighs add extra juiciness, but breasts work beautifully too.
- Olive oil – The golden foundation of any good Greek dish.
- Lemon juice & garlic – For that zesty, aromatic marinade.
- Dried oregano – The herb that whispers “Mediterranean” in every bite.
- Cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion – The crisp, colorful veggie trio.
- Kalamata olives & feta cheese – Salty, briny, and utterly irresistible.
- Tzatziki sauce – Store-bought works, but homemade is pure magic.
- Cooked quinoa or rice – A hearty base to soak up all the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s bring these bowls together—step by cozy step.
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and let it soak up all that goodness for at least 20 minutes (or overnight if you’re planning ahead).
- Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Let it rest before slicing—this keeps it juicy!
- Prep the veggies: While the chicken cooks, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Toss them together with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt.
- Assemble your bowls: Start with a base of quinoa or rice, then layer on the sliced chicken, fresh veggies, olives, and crumbled feta. Drizzle generously with tzatziki.
Tip: If you’re short on time, skip the marinade and just season the chicken well before cooking—it’ll still be delicious!
These Greek Chicken Bowls are a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that comes together in no time. But like any great recipe, there are always ways to tweak it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some pro tips and variations to make this dish truly your own.
Pro Tips & Variations
- Swap the protein: Not a fan of chicken? Try grilled shrimp, lamb, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
- Make it creamy: Add a dollop of tzatziki or hummus for extra richness.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of harissa can add a nice kick.
- Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken overnight for even deeper flavor.
What to Serve With Greek Chicken Bowls
While these bowls are a complete meal on their own, they pair beautifully with a few simple sides:
- Warm pita bread or flatbread for scooping up all the goodness
- A crisp Greek salad with feta and olives
- Roasted lemon potatoes for a hearty addition
- A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon
Storage & Reheating Tips
These bowls are perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Storage: Keep components separate in airtight containers for up to 3 days. The chicken and grains reheat well, but fresh veggies are best added just before serving.
- Reheating: Warm the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out. Assemble with fresh toppings for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different grain instead of rice?
Absolutely! Quinoa, couscous, or even farro would work wonderfully here. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Simply skip the feta or use a dairy-free alternative. The flavors will still shine!
Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing?
Yes! Grilling adds a lovely smoky flavor. Just be sure to oil the grates well to prevent sticking.
Is there a shortcut for the marinade?
If you’re short on time, a good-quality Greek dressing works in a pinch—just look for one with simple ingredients.
There’s something so satisfying about digging into a bowl filled with bright, fresh flavors and tender, herb-infused chicken. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving a crowd, these Greek Chicken Bowls are sure to become a favorite. The best part? They’re endlessly adaptable, so you can make them a little different each time. Enjoy every bite!
PrintGreek Chicken Bowls
A flavorful and healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and tangy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- In a bowl, mix chicken with olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
- Divide cooked rice or quinoa among four bowls.
- Top each bowl with sliced chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
- Drizzle with tzatziki sauce before serving.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.