Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to the Mediterranean right from your kitchen? Our Greek chicken bowls are a delightful mix of flavors and textures, offering a nutritious and satisfying meal in one delicious package. Packed with juicy chicken, vibrant veggies, and a tangy dressing, this recipe is sure to be a favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or meal prep for the week, these bowls are here to save the day.
Ingredients
To bring these Greek chicken bowls to life, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pitted kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Equipment
Ensure you have these tools on hand:
- Large skillet
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
How to Make Greek Chicken Bowls – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the marinade by combining olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat the chicken breasts thoroughly. Let this marinate for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to permeate the meat. This step is crucial for achieving that mesmerizing blend of Mediterranean aromas.
Step 2: While the chicken is marinating, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, bring the quinoa and water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and water is absorbed. Remember to fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains.
Step 3: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a bit of olive oil. Cook the marinated chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side, ensuring they are golden brown and cooked through. Rest them for 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period is vital for keeping the chicken juicy.
Step 4: In a mixing bowl, combine the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and olives. Toss them together to create a refreshing and vibrant salad, which will add a bright crunch to your bowls.
Step 5: It’s time to assemble your Greek chicken bowls. Spoon a portion of quinoa as the base, top it with sliced chicken, a generous helping of the salad, and sprinkle feta cheese over the top. Each bite promises a burst of flavor and freshness.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Bowls
To enhance the experience, consider adding a squeeze of lemon over the top or a drizzle of tzatziki sauce. Serve your Greek chicken bowls warm, and garnish with fresh parsley for that final aromatic touch.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For the juiciest chicken, avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer — aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. Feel free to customize your Greek chicken bowls by adding avocado or using brown rice instead of quinoa for variety.
High-Protein Powerhouse: Pump Up Your Greek Chicken Bowls
If you’re aiming to increase the protein content, consider adding grilled chickpeas or sliced boiled eggs to your bowl. Not only does this keep you fuller for longer, but it also adds additional texture and flavor layers, making each bite even more delightful.
Adding these protein-rich ingredients offers more versatility and makes the dish suitable for those on a muscle-building journey. Chickpeas are an excellent source of vegetarian protein and can seamlessly blend with the Greek flavors.
Lean and Green Delight: Low-Carb Greek Chicken Bowls
For a low-carb option, swap out quinoa for cauliflower rice. This alternative keeps carbs in check while maintaining the bowl’s hearty nature. Cauliflower rice perfectly absorbs the savory juices from the chicken, enhancing every spoonful.
This option helps cater to keto or low-carb enthusiasts, offering a guilt-free indulgence without missing out on any delectable flavors. It’s a win-win way to enjoy your meals without compromising on taste or dietary goals.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Greek chicken bowls in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If planning for meal prep, keep the components separate for optimal flavor and freshness when it’s time to reheat and enjoy.
FAQs
- How can I make this dish vegan? Substitute the chicken with marinated tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based version.
- What other grains can be used? You can use bulgur or farro instead of quinoa for different textures.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance? Absolutely! Prepare the components separately and assemble before serving.
- Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets? Yes, as long as all the ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Why You’ll Love Our Greek Chicken Bowls
There you have it — a vibrant, nutritious, and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Share your creations with us, and let us know how you enjoyed this Mediterranean delight. Don’t forget to leave a comment or share this recipe with family and friends!
Greek Chicken Bowls
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- boneless skinless chicken breasts
- olive oil
- dried oregano
- Salt and pepper
- quinoa
- water
- cucumber
- cherry tomatoes
- red onion
- pitted kalamata olives
- crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
Steps
- Prepare the marinade by combining olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat the chicken breasts thoroughly.
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, bring the quinoa and water to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Cook the marinated chicken breasts until golden brown and cooked through.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and olives. Toss them together for the salad.
- Assemble your bowls by adding a portion of cooked quinoa, sliced chicken, salad mixture, and top with crumbled feta.