There’s something so comforting about a meal that’s both nourishing and bursting with flavor—like a warm hug in a bowl. That’s exactly what these Easy Healthy Greek Chicken Bowls are for me. I first fell in love with this dish on a lazy Sunday when I wanted something fresh yet satisfying, and now it’s become my go-to for busy weeknights and meal prep alike. Juicy, herb-marinated chicken, crisp veggies, creamy tzatziki, and fluffy quinoa come together in a harmony of textures and tastes that make every bite a little celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather everything for these vibrant bowls. The beauty of this recipe is how flexible it is—swap ingredients based on what you have, and it’ll still be delicious!
- Chicken breast or thighs: I prefer thighs for extra juiciness, but breasts work just as well if you’re watching calories.
- Olive oil & lemon juice: The base of our marinade—bright, tangy, and oh-so-Greek.
- Garlic & dried oregano: Essential for that authentic Mediterranean flavor.
- Cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion: Fresh, crunchy, and colorful—the perfect veggie trio.
- Kalamata olives & feta cheese: Salty, briny, and creamy—these are the flavor powerhouses.
- Tzatziki sauce: Store-bought or homemade, this cool yogurt sauce ties everything together.
- Quinoa or brown rice: A wholesome base that soaks up all the delicious juices.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s bring these bowls to life! Don’t worry—this recipe is as easy as it is tasty.
- 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 for maximum flavor).
- Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. 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 and enjoy!
Tip: If you’re short on time, skip the marinade and just season the chicken with oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper before cooking. It’ll still be delicious!
Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions
These Greek Chicken Bowls are incredibly versatile, so feel free to tweak them to your liking! Here are some ideas to make them your own:
- Protein Swap: Not a fan of chicken? Try grilled shrimp, lamb, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
- Veggie Variations: Swap out cucumbers for roasted zucchini or bell peppers. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness too!
- Dressing Options: If you don’t have tzatziki, a simple lemon-olive oil dressing or hummus drizzle works beautifully.
- Grain-Free: Skip the rice and serve over a bed of greens or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
What to Serve With Greek Chicken Bowls
While these bowls are a complete meal on their own, they pair wonderfully with a few extras:
- A side of warm pita bread or crispy pita chips for scooping up every last bite.
- A simple Greek salad with olives and feta for extra Mediterranean flair.
- A refreshing glass of mint lemonade or iced herbal tea to balance the flavors.
Storage and Reheating Tips
These bowls are perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Storage: Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 3–4 days. Keep the dressing on the side to prevent sogginess.
- Reheating: Warm the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep them moist. Add fresh veggies and tzatziki just before serving.
- Freezing: While the chicken and rice freeze well, fresh veggies and tzatziki are best added fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep the chicken, rice, and veggies in advance, then assemble when ready to eat for the freshest taste.
Is there a dairy-free alternative to tzatziki?
Yes! Try a dairy-free yogurt base or a tahini-lemon dressing for a creamy, tangy substitute.
How can I make this spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.
Can I use frozen veggies?
Fresh is best for crunch, but roasted frozen veggies (like peppers or zucchini) work in a pinch—just pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting about a bowl filled with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. These Greek Chicken Bowls are not only easy to make but also a joy to eat—whether it’s a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend lunch. I hope this recipe brings a little sunshine to your table and becomes a staple in your meal rotation. Happy cooking!
PrintEasy Healthy Greek Chicken Bowls
A flavorful and nutritious Greek-inspired chicken bowl with fresh vegetables and a tangy yogurt sauce.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dill, chopped
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- In a bowl, toss chicken cubes with olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked.
- In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and dill to make the sauce.
- Assemble bowls by dividing quinoa, cooked chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and olives among four bowls.
- Drizzle with the yogurt sauce and serve immediately.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.