Name: Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 4 small chicken breasts (about 1 1/4 pounds); 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa; 2 cups halved grape or cherry tomatoes; 2 cups diced or chopped cucumber; 4 cups shredded romaine lettuce; 1 cup sliced red onion; 1/2 cup feta cheese; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup grated cucumber; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 15 reviews

If you’re searching for a meal that bursts with vibrant flavors and feels both nourishing and satisfying, this Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe is an absolute winner. Picture tender, marinated chicken perfectly seasoned with lemon and herbs, nestled on a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa, and topped with crisp veggies and a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce. This dish is a delightful blend of textures and tastes, bringing the Mediterranean sunshine straight to your dinner table. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, these bowls are quickly becoming a personal favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows eight small white bowls and one white plate with food on a white marbled surface. Starting from the top left is a white plate with three raw, seasoned chicken thighs that have a light pink and brown color with visible spices. To the right is a white bowl with thin slices of red onion showing their deep purple and white layers. Below that is a white bowl with creamy white sauce mixed with green herbs. Next to it on the right is a white bowl with green cut cucumber pieces. In the middle left is a white bowl filled with small white cheese cubes. Below that is a bowl with green shredded lettuce. Directly below both bowls is a white bowl with white cooked rice. The final bowl in the bottom right contains small red cherry tomatoes. A woman's hand is not visible in this image. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients, each chosen to build layers of flavor and create a balanced, colorful plate. From the juicy, herb-infused chicken to the fresh vegetables and creamy tzatziki, every component plays a crucial role in the final dish.

4 small chicken breasts (about 1 1/4 pounds): The star protein, lean and perfect for marinating.
1/4 cup olive oil: Adds richness and helps lock in moisture during cooking.
1 tablespoon lemon zest: Brings a sunny, aromatic punch to the marinade.
2 tablespoons lemon juice: Provides fresh acidity that brightens the chicken.
2 tablespoons honey: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the tangy lemon.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives depth and warmth to the marinade.
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano: Classic Greek herb that delivers earthy notes.
1 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Complements oregano for a rounded flavor profile.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the ingredients.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and spice.
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: A gentle kick to elevate the taste.
2 cups cooked rice or quinoa: The hearty base, great for soaking up juices.
2 cups halved grape or cherry tomatoes: Juicy bursts of freshness and color.
2 cups diced or chopped cucumber: Cool and crunchy, perfect contrast.
4 cups shredded romaine lettuce: Adds crispness and volume.
1 cup sliced red onion: Sharpness and vibrant purple hue.
1/2 cup feta cheese: Salty, creamy, and quintessentially Greek.
1 cup plain Greek yogurt: The creamy base for homemade tzatziki.
1/2 cup grated cucumber: Key ingredient for authentic tzatziki texture.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Freshness for the tzatziki sauce.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds silkiness and depth to the sauce.
1 teaspoon minced garlic: Essential for flavor-packed tzatziki.
1/4 teaspoon salt: To taste, enhances the yogurt sauce.
1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill: Bright herbaceous note for the sauce.

How to Make Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe

Step 1: Whisk Together the Marinade

Start by combining olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Whisking these ingredients together releases their flavors and creates a balanced, tangy-sweet base that will infuse the chicken with irresistible taste.

Step 2: Pound and Marinate the Chicken

To ensure even cooking, gently pound the chicken breasts to about 1/2 inch thick. Place them in a shallow bowl or a ziplock bag, pouring in the marinade to coat every surface. Let the chicken soak up these flavors for at least 30 minutes, or if you have time, a few hours for the tastiest results.

Step 3: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

While the chicken is marinating, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and fresh dill. This cooling tzatziki sauce will add creamy tang and freshness to your bowls, balancing the warm, savory chicken beautifully.

Step 4: Prep Rice and Vegetables

Cook your choice of rice or quinoa according to package instructions, then chop the tomatoes, cucumber, romaine lettuce, and red onion. Traditionally, Greek bowls include olives for a briny twist, but feel free to skip or add them according to your preference.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 380°F and cook the chicken for about 7 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. No air fryer? No problem! Simply heat a skillet over medium-low heat with a little oil or butter and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes per side.

Step 6: Rest and Slice the Chicken

Resting the chicken for 5 minutes after cooking locks in juices and allows it to remain tender. Once rested, slice it into strips, ready to top your bowl.

Step 7: Assemble the Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe

Layer the cooked rice or quinoa at the bottom, top with the fresh vegetables, sliced chicken, and generous dollops of tzatziki. For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the top, or try adding a zingy lemon tahini dressing. This step is where all your hard work comes to life!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe

The image shows a white oval bowl filled with layers of food on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is finely chopped green lettuce, topped with thin slices of red onion scattered on the left side. On top of the lettuce and onions are slices of cooked chicken, arranged in a neat row across the middle of the bowl. The chicken is light brown with some grill marks and has a juicy texture. White crumbled cheese is sprinkled over the chicken and vegetables, with small green herbs spread throughout. A wedge of lemon is placed on the bottom left corner inside the bowl. A gold spoon leans into the bowl near the chicken. In the background, two small white bowls contain red chili flakes and green herbs. Some chili flakes and herbs are scattered on the surface around the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding garnishes like freshly chopped parsley, extra crumbled feta, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika adds not only visual appeal but also an extra dimension of flavor. These small touches make the dish feel special and inviting.

Side Dishes

Serve your Greek Chicken Bowls alongside warm pita bread or a simple cucumber and tomato salad for a more substantial Mediterranean feast. Grilled vegetables or lemon potatoes also complement the bowls wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative by layering the ingredients in a clear glass bowl or mason jar for a stunning presentation perfect for picnics or meal prep. You can also mix all ingredients together for a deconstructed salad style or serve the chicken sliced over a bed of greens for a lighter option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Greek Chicken Bowls keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the tzatziki separate to maintain its creamy texture and freshness.

Freezing

This recipe freezes best before assembling the bowls. Store marinated chicken and cooked rice or quinoa separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and assembling.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken and grains gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying out the chicken. Add fresh vegetables and tzatziki after reheating for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time. Just make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Is there a vegetarian option for this Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi, roasted chickpeas, or marinated tofu for a protein-packed vegetarian twist that still captures the spirit of the dish.

Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Definitely. Tzatziki can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge. The flavors will actually develop more over time, making it even more delicious.

What’s the best rice to use?

Long grain white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa works wonderfully in this recipe. Quinoa offers a slightly nutty flavor and extra protein if you want a healthier option.

How do I adjust the recipe for spicy food lovers?

Increase the red pepper flakes in the marinade or add a dash of hot sauce when assembling the bowls. You can also sprinkle sliced jalapeños or serve with a spicy harissa sauce on the side.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s fresh, flavorful, and endlessly satisfying, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Once you master this recipe, you’ll find yourself reaching for these vibrant bowls again and again. Go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to a little taste of the Mediterranean today!