Ingredients
Let’s talk ingredients. You likely have most of these staples in your pantry or fridge already. Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this delightful dish:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- Chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless – about 1 pound)
- Olive oil – 3 tablespoons
- Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed for maximum flavor)
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon
- Salt and black pepper – to taste
For the Bowl:
- Cooked base: Choose from rice, quinoa, couscous, or mixed greens
- Cherry tomatoes – 1 cup, halved
- Cucumber – 1, diced
- Red onion – 1 small, thinly sliced
- Kalamata olives – ½ cup, pitted and halved
- Feta cheese – ½ cup, crumbled
- Tzatziki sauce – for drizzling
Optional extras: Fresh parsley, a sprinkle of paprika, or a handful of toasted pita chips for crunch.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Greek Chicken Bowls
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Wondering how to get chicken that’s both tender and flavorful? The secret lies in the marinade.
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts or thighs, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, let it sit in the fridge for up to 4 hours—the longer, the better!
This marinade not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the chicken moist during cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
After marinating, it’s time to cook! You can grill, pan-sear, or bake the chicken—whatever suits your kitchen setup.
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6–8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Pan-searing: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of olive oil. Cook the chicken for 6–7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20–25 minutes.
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial for retaining all those delicious juices.
Step 3: Prepare Your Bowl Base
What’s a bowl without a solid foundation? Choose a base that fits your mood or dietary needs:
- Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice works wonderfully here, adding a touch of fluffiness.
- Quinoa: For a protein-packed option, go with quinoa—it’s nutty and pairs beautifully with the Mediterranean flavors.
- Mixed greens: If you’re looking for a lighter, low-carb option, a bed of arugula, spinach, or romaine is ideal.
Cook your chosen base and set it aside to cool slightly before assembling your bowl.
Step 4: Chop and Prep the Veggies
The fresh veggies are where the magic happens. Here’s how to prepare them:
- Slice the cherry tomatoes in half for a burst of sweetness.
- Dice the cucumber for a refreshing crunch.
- Thinly slice the red onion to add a bit of sharpness.
- Pit and halve the Kalamata olives for that signature briny flavor.
Arrange them neatly in bowls or plates to streamline your assembly process.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
Now for the fun part—putting it all together!
- Start with your chosen base (rice, quinoa, or greens).
- Add sliced chicken on one side of the bowl.
- Arrange the fresh veggies—tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives—alongside the chicken.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top for a creamy, tangy finish.
- Drizzle with tzatziki sauce, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon if desired.