Greek Chicken Bowl

This Greek Chicken Bowl is a delightful Mediterranean-inspired meal that brings together vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this dish is not only healthy but also visually appealing. The combination of grilled chicken, fluffy quinoa, and a zesty lemon herb dressing makes it a standout choice for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Dressing/Marinade:
• For the Quinoa Bowls:
• For Garnish
• How to Make Greek Chicken Bowl
• Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
• Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
• Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 4: Grill the Chicken
• Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
• Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
• How to Serve Greek Chicken Bowl
• Add Fresh Herbs
• Include Extra Dressing
• Pair with Pita Bread
• Complement with a Salad
• How to Perfect Greek Chicken Bowl
• Best Side Dishes for Greek Chicken Bowl
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Greek Chicken Bowl
• Reheating Greek Chicken Bowl
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is included in a Greek Chicken Bowl?
• Can I make this Greek Chicken Bowl vegetarian?
• How do I customize my Greek Chicken Bowl?
• What goes well with a Greek Chicken Bowl?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 28 minutes, this Greek Chicken Bowl is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The zesty lemon herb dressing adds a refreshing kick that compliments the grilled chicken beautifully.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with lean protein from chicken and nutrient-rich veggies, this bowl is both healthy and satisfying.
• Versatile Meal: Easily customize by swapping ingredients or adding your favorite toppings to suit your taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Ideal for making in advance; just keep the dressing separate until serving.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Greek Chicken Bowl efficiently, having the right tools on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill pan or outdoor grill
• Small saucepan
• Mixing jar or bowl
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill pan or outdoor grill: Essential for achieving perfectly grilled chicken with those delicious char marks.
• Small saucepan: Used to cook quinoa evenly and efficiently.
• Mixing jar or bowl: Perfect for emulsifying the dressing so that all flavors meld together beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Dressing/Marinade:

• ¼ cup olive oil (or avocado oil)
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ½ tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Kosher pepper, to taste

For the Quinoa Bowls:

• 1 ½ cups quinoa, uncooked
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 English cucumber, diced
• 4 Roma tomatoes, chopped
• 1 medium red onion, diced
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup kalamata olives, pitted

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

PIN THIS!

How to Make Greek Chicken Bowl

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

In a small saucepan, combine 1 ½ cups quinoa with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 12–15 minutes until quinoa is tender. Drain if needed and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined. This zesty dressing will elevate your Greek Chicken Bowl.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Pour about one-third of the dressing over the chicken breasts. Coat them thoroughly. Reserve the remaining dressing for later use as a drizzle. Keep it separate from raw chicken to avoid contamination.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6–8 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

Divide cooled quinoa evenly among four bowls. Top each with grilled chicken slices along with diced cucumber, chopped tomatoes, and red onion.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

Sprinkle each bowl with crumbled feta cheese and kalamata olives. Drizzle with reserved dressing just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

With these steps complete, your delicious Greek Chicken Bowl is ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Bowl

Serving a Greek Chicken Bowl is all about presentation and balance. This dish is not only delicious but also colorful, making it a feast for the eyes. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your Greek Chicken Bowl experience.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for an aromatic touch.
• Mint Leaves – Add mint leaves for a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the dish.

Include Extra Dressing

• Lemon Herb Dressing – Serve additional dressing on the side for those who love a zesty kick.
• Tzatziki Sauce – This yogurt-based sauce pairs perfectly with the flavors of the bowl.

Pair with Pita Bread

• Warm Pita – Serve warm pita slices for dipping into the ingredients or enjoying alongside the bowl.
• Pita Chips – Crunchy pita chips add texture and are great for scooping.

Complement with a Salad

• Greek Salad – A simple Greek salad with olives, tomatoes, and cucumbers can enhance the meal.
• Mediterranean Chickpea Salad – This protein-packed option adds variety and flavor to your dining experience.

How to Perfect Greek Chicken Bowl

To make your Greek Chicken Bowl truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips. These suggestions will ensure that every component shines in your dish.

• Choose Quality Ingredients – Use fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
• Marinate Longer – For more intense flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to a few hours before grilling.
• Cook Quinoa Properly – Rinse quinoa before cooking to remove bitterness and ensure it cooks fluffy.
• Grill to Perfection – Make sure your grill is hot enough; this helps achieve nice char marks on the chicken.
• Use Seasonal Vegetables – Incorporate seasonal produce to keep your bowls vibrant and nutritious.
• Serve Immediately – For optimal taste, serve the bowls right after assembling while everything is fresh.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Greek Chicken Bowl

A well-rounded meal often includes side dishes that enhance the main course. Here are some excellent side options that pair beautifully with your Greek Chicken Bowl.

1. Hummus – A creamy blend of chickpeas and tahini that’s perfect for dipping or spreading on pita.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide sweetness and depth of flavor.
3. Tabbouleh Salad – A fresh herb salad made with bulgur wheat, parsley, and mint adds brightness to your meal.
4. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas) – These vine-wrapped delights are filled with rice and herbs, offering a unique texture.
5. Feta Cheese Dip – Creamy feta dip served with veggie sticks or chips enhances the Mediterranean theme.
6. Olive Tapenade – A savory spread made from olives that adds rich flavors when enjoyed with bread or crackers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Greek Chicken Bowl, avoiding common pitfalls can make a big difference in flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind:

• Skipping the marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Take time to let the chicken soak in the dressing for at least 30 minutes for maximum taste.
• Overcooking quinoa: Cooking quinoa too long makes it mushy and unappealing. Follow the recommended cooking time of 12-15 minutes and fluff it with a fork afterwards.
• Neglecting the dressing: Using a store-bought dressing can detract from the freshness of your Greek Chicken Bowl. Make your own with fresh ingredients for better flavor.
• Not balancing textures: Failing to include crunchy vegetables like cucumbers can result in a one-dimensional dish. Ensure you add a variety of textures for a satisfying experience.
• Ignoring portion sizes: Overloading bowls can lead to an unbalanced meal. Aim for even distribution of ingredients across bowls for better presentation and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Make sure the chicken and quinoa are completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Greek Chicken Bowl

• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates to keep track of freshness.

Reheating Greek Chicken Bowl

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Cover the bowl with foil and heat for about 15 minutes or until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in a Greek Chicken Bowl?

A Greek Chicken Bowl typically includes grilled chicken, quinoa, fresh vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes, feta cheese, kalamata olives, and a lemon herb dressing.

Can I make this Greek Chicken Bowl vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or chickpeas for protein while keeping all other ingredients.

How do I customize my Greek Chicken Bowl?

Feel free to swap out grains like couscous or farro instead of quinoa. You can also mix in different veggies or dressings according to your preferences.

What goes well with a Greek Chicken Bowl?

Consider pairing your bowl with pita bread or tzatziki sauce for an extra touch of Mediterranean flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Chicken Bowl is not only vibrant but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. It’s perfect as a healthy lunch option or satisfying dinner. Give it a try today!