Ingredients
Before we jump into cooking, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious Greek Chicken Bowl with Feta and Pita. Each element of this dish is simple yet full of flavor, and you probably already have most of these ingredients at home!
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 large chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For the Pita and Sauce:
- 2 large pita bread
- ½ cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
How to Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor
Marinating the chicken is the secret to infusing it with rich flavors. But what makes a good marinade? It’s all about balance—acid, fat, herbs, and spices. In this recipe, the tangy lemon juice and olive oil provide the base, while the garlic, oregano, paprika, and cumin bring the Mediterranean flair.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir it well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Take your chicken breasts (or thighs) and coat them generously with the marinade. Make sure to cover all surfaces of the chicken. You can either marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or, if you have more time, overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor.
Cooking the Chicken to Perfection
Once the chicken has had time to marinate, it’s time to cook it. Whether you grill, pan-sear, or bake it, the goal is to lock in those Mediterranean flavors while keeping the chicken juicy and tender.
Step 1: Preheat the Grill or Pan
If you’re grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a pan, heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Step 2: Grill or Cook the Chicken
Place the chicken on the grill or in the pan and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips. Resting helps retain the juices, keeping your chicken moist and tender.
Assembling the Greek Chicken Bowl
Now that the chicken is ready, it’s time to put everything together. This is where the fun begins! You’ll be layering all your components into a bowl, making sure each bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Step 1: Start with a Base
Begin by placing a generous portion of cooked quinoa, rice, or greens at the bottom of each bowl. These serve as the foundation, creating a hearty and healthy base for the rest of the ingredients. You can even use a mix of grains or leafy greens, depending on your preference.
Step 2: Add the Veggies
Next, add the fresh veggies: halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion. The crunch and freshness of these vegetables will contrast beautifully with the savory chicken and creamy feta.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Feta
Top your veggie base with slices of the grilled chicken, followed by a generous sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese. Feta adds a salty, tangy flavor that really enhances the bowl’s overall taste.
Step 4: Garnish with Olives and Fresh Parsley
Don’t forget the olives! Kalamata olives provide an extra burst of flavor that ties the dish together. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Step 5: Serve with Warm Pita and Tzatziki Sauce
Finally, warm up your pita bread slightly and cut it into wedges. Serve it alongside the Greek chicken bowl with a small dish of tzatziki sauce for dipping. The cool, creamy tzatziki adds a refreshing element to every bite.
How to Make Homemade Tzatziki Sauce
While store-bought tzatziki sauce is great in a pinch, homemade tzatziki is simple to make and adds an authentic touch to your dish. Plus, it’s so fresh and customizable!
Ingredients for Homemade Tzatziki:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- ½ cucumber, grated
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Grate the cucumber and place it in a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out any excess water. This will keep your tzatziki from being too watery.
- In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything together until smooth and well combined.
- Let the tzatziki sit for at least 30 minutes in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled with your Greek chicken bowl.
