Greek Chicken Bowl

Published:

by Emilia

This Greek Chicken Bowl is a delightful and vibrant dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this bowl features juicy grilled chicken, fluffy quinoa, and fresh vegetables, all topped with tangy feta cheese and olives. With its zesty lemon herb dressing, this meal is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients, making it ideal for various occasions.

Greek Chicken Bowl

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthy Ingredients: This bowl is filled with nutrient-dense ingredients like quinoa and fresh veggies, making it a wholesome meal.
  • Quick Preparation: With just 28 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
  • Versatile Options: Easily customize this bowl by swapping ingredients for your favorites or dietary preferences.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare multiple servings at once for easy lunches throughout the week.
  • Flavor Explosion: The combination of herbs, lemon, and feta creates a refreshing taste that elevates your dining experience.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Greek Chicken Bowl effortlessly, gather these essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Grill pan or outdoor grill
  • Small saucepan
  • Mixing bowl or jar
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

  • Grill pan or outdoor grill: Essential for achieving perfectly grilled chicken with those lovely char marks.
  • Small saucepan: Used for cooking quinoa to fluffy perfection while absorbing all the water.
  • Mixing bowl or jar: Ideal for combining the dressing ingredients thoroughly for even flavor distribution.
  • Whisk: Helps emulsify the dressing by blending oil and lemon juice smoothly.

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

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: Make 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 and emulsified.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Pour about one-third of the dressing over the chicken breasts. Ensure they are coated thoroughly. Reserve the remaining dressing for later use as a drizzle. Keep it separate from the raw chicken.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

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

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

Divide the cooled quinoa evenly among 4 bowls. Top each with grilled chicken slices, 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.

Now you can enjoy this delicious Greek Chicken Bowl that’s perfect for any meal!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Bowl

This Greek Chicken Bowl is not only a delightful meal on its own but also versatile enough to be served in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions that can elevate your dining experience.

As a Meal Prep Option

  • Prepare individual bowls for the week and store them in airtight containers. This makes for an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner option.

With Extra Greens

  • Add a handful of fresh spinach or arugula at the base of the bowl for added nutrients and a peppery flavor.

With Pita Chips

  • Serve alongside crispy pita chips for a crunchy contrast and an extra touch of Mediterranean flair.

With Hummus

  • Include a dollop of hummus on the side for a creamy texture that complements the Greek Chicken Bowl beautifully.

As a Salad

  • Transform the bowl into a salad by mixing all ingredients with additional greens and enjoying it as a refreshing dish.

For Family Style Serving

  • Place all components in separate bowls and let everyone build their own Greek Chicken Bowl, allowing for personalized flavors.
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How to Perfect Greek Chicken Bowl

Creating the perfect Greek Chicken Bowl involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bowl is always delicious.

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nutrition, making your bowl vibrant and tasty.

  • Marinate Chicken Longer: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken breasts for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

  • Cook Quinoa Properly: Rinse quinoa before cooking to remove bitterness, ensuring it’s fluffy and light.

  • Balance Flavors: Adjust dressing ingredients based on your taste preferences—add more honey for sweetness or lemon juice for tanginess.

  • Presentation Matters: Arrange ingredients artfully in each bowl to make it visually appealing, which enhances the dining experience.

  • Customize Ingredients: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini based on what you have available.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Chicken Bowl

Pairing side dishes with your Greek Chicken Bowl can enhance your meal further. Consider these complementary options:

  1. Greek Tzatziki Sauce: A cool yogurt-based sauce that adds creaminess and freshness, perfect for dipping or drizzling.

  2. Mediterranean Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables seasoned with herbs complement the flavors of the chicken bowl wonderfully.

  3. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing parsley salad with bulgur wheat that brings bright flavors and textures to your meal.

  4. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These flavorful grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs provide an authentic Mediterranean touch.

  5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with the zesty chicken bowl.

  6. Feta Cheese Dip: A creamy dip made from feta cheese that serves as an excellent accompaniment or spread on pita bread.

  7. Couscous Salad: Lightly seasoned couscous mixed with vegetables offers another grain option alongside quinoa.

  8. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad of chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon dressing complements the Greek theme perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Greek Chicken Bowl can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture.

  • Skipping the Marinating Step: Failing to marinate the chicken can result in bland flavors. Always let the chicken soak in the dressing for at least 30 minutes for maximum taste.
  • Overcooking the Quinoa: Cooking quinoa too long can make it mushy. Follow the cooking time closely and check for tenderness at 12 minutes.
  • Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Dull veggies can ruin your bowl. Use fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition.
  • Ignoring Portion Sizes: Serving too much or too little can affect your meal’s balance. Measure out your ingredients properly to ensure everyone gets a satisfying portion.
  • Forgetting to Reserve Dressing: Not saving some dressing for drizzling later can lead to a dry bowl. Always set aside a portion of the dressing before coating the chicken.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container.
  • They will last for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Greek Chicken Bowl

  • Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers.
  • The Greek Chicken Bowl can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Greek Chicken Bowl

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
  • Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people have questions about making this delicious Greek Chicken Bowl. Here are some commonly asked ones.

Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa in my Greek Chicken Bowl?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time accordingly since brown rice takes longer to cook than quinoa.

What other proteins work well in this Greek Chicken Bowl?

You can use grilled shrimp, steak, or even chickpeas as protein alternatives for this bowl.

How do I customize my Greek Chicken Bowl?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences. Spinach or bell peppers make great additions!

Is this Greek Chicken Bowl suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and makes an excellent healthy lunch option throughout the week when stored properly.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

Consider serving with pita bread or a side of hummus for a complete Mediterranean experience alongside your Greek Chicken Bowl.

Final Thoughts

The Greek Chicken Bowl is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious and satisfying meal that fits various dietary needs. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences, whether you want extra veggies or different proteins. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy creating your perfect bowl!

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Greek Chicken Bowl

Greek Chicken Bowl


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  • Author: Emilia
  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Greek Chicken Bowl, a wholesome and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Featuring juicy grilled chicken, fluffy quinoa, and an array of fresh vegetables, this dish is topped with tangy feta cheese and olives, all drizzled with a zesty lemon herb dressing. Ready in just 28 minutes, this customizable bowl is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups uncooked quinoa
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 English cucumber, diced
  • 4 Roma tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 medium red onion, diced
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 cup pitted kalamata olives
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Kosher pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse quinoa and cook in a small saucepan with 2 cups water and a pinch of salt for 12–15 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  3. Marinate chicken breasts in one-third of the dressing for at least 30 minutes.
  4. Grill marinated chicken over medium-high heat for 6–8 minutes on each side until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
  5. Assemble bowls by dividing quinoa among them and topping with sliced chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, and olives.
  6. Drizzle reserved dressing over each bowl before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 47g
  • Fiber: 9g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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