Ingredients
To make this Greek Chicken Bowl with Pomegranate Seeds, you’ll need a few key ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Here’s your shopping list:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice (your choice)
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (fresh or from a pomegranate)
- Tzatziki sauce for drizzling (optional)
Preparing the Greek Chicken Marinade
A great marinade is key to infusing the chicken with those mouth-watering Mediterranean flavors. Let’s start with the marinade ingredients. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano is the backbone of Greek cuisine.
First, grab a mixing bowl and add the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it forms a well-mixed marinade. Next, place the chicken breasts into a zip-top bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over the chicken, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes (but longer, like 1-2 hours, will give you even better flavor).
The lemon juice helps tenderize the chicken while the spices give it that irresistible Greek touch. Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to fire up the grill or skillet!
Grilling the Chicken
When it comes to cooking the chicken, grilling is ideal for creating that smoky, crispy exterior. However, if you don’t have access to a grill, a skillet will do just fine.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken on the grill or in the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You’ll know it’s done when the juices run clear and the chicken has a nice golden-brown sear.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to keep it juicy and tender before slicing it into thin strips.
Building the Greek Chicken Bowl
Now that you’ve got that juicy grilled chicken ready, it’s time to assemble the Greek Chicken Bowl! This part is fun because you can customize it however you like. The base of the bowl is usually quinoa or brown rice, but feel free to use whatever grain you prefer. Some people even go for a base of leafy greens or lettuce for a lighter, low-carb option.
Start by spooning a generous portion of quinoa or brown rice into the bottom of each bowl. Then, add the sliced grilled chicken on top. From here, the fun begins! Layer on the fresh cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, and tangy Kalamata olives. These fresh ingredients bring both crunch and flavor to the bowl, creating the perfect balance with the grilled chicken.
Next, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top. This adds a rich, salty flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients. Now, don’t forget the pièce de résistance—the pomegranate seeds! These vibrant, ruby-red jewels add a burst of sweetness and a delightful crunch, making every bite feel special.
Adding Tzatziki Sauce
For those who love a creamy element to their bowls, a drizzle of tzatziki sauce is a must. Tzatziki, a cool and tangy Greek yogurt sauce made with cucumber, garlic, and dill, perfectly ties all the flavors together. If you’ve never had tzatziki before, get ready to fall in love with its refreshing taste.
You can either make your own tzatziki sauce at home or grab a store-bought jar to save some time. If you’re making it at home, simply mix together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, fresh dill, and salt. Spoon some over your Greek Chicken Bowl for that extra zing!
Conclusion
This Greek Chicken Bowl with Pomegranate Seeds is the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients. With its tangy chicken, fresh veggies, and vibrant pomegranate seeds, it’s a dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re serving it as a healthy lunch or dinner, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings while providing a boost of antioxidants and good-for-you ingredients.
So, why not give it a try? It’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. Plus, with so many options for customization, you can make it your own and enjoy a tasty Greek-inspired meal anytime you wish!
