Greek Chicken Grain Bowl
Highlighted under: Hearty Home Cooking
Enjoy a nutritious and delicious Greek chicken grain bowl that brings together fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors for a satisfying meal.
This Greek chicken grain bowl combines marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful dressing, making it a perfect meal for a busy weeknight or a healthy lunch option.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Packed with protein and fiber for lasting energy
- Bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors
- Customizable with your favorite toppings and grains
Fresh Ingredients for a Wholesome Meal
The Greek Chicken Grain Bowl is a celebration of fresh ingredients that not only taste great but also offer numerous health benefits. The combination of lean chicken, vibrant vegetables, and wholesome grains creates a balanced meal that is rich in protein and fiber. Each bite is packed with nutrients that help sustain energy levels throughout the day.
In this bowl, ingredients like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers add refreshing crunch, while Kalamata olives and feta cheese bring a salty, savory depth. Using whole grains like quinoa or brown rice not only enhances the dish's texture but also contributes to its overall nutritional value, making it a smart choice for lunch or dinner.
Versatility and Customization
One of the best aspects of the Greek Chicken Grain Bowl is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Prefer brown rice over quinoa? No problem! Want to add avocado or bell peppers? Go for it! This dish is incredibly adaptable and can cater to a variety of tastes and dietary needs.
Moreover, if you're vegetarian or vegan, you can substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi or a mix of roasted vegetables, making it just as delicious and satisfying. This flexibility allows you to create your own version of the grain bowl, making it a hit for family meals or meal prep for the week.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Greek Chicken Grain Bowl is not only delightful on the first day but also perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the chicken and dressing in advance, and simply assemble the bowls when you're ready to eat. The ingredients can be stored separately in the refrigerator, allowing you to enjoy fresh, flavorful meals throughout the week without the hassle of daily cooking.
To keep your grain bowl fresh, layer your ingredients wisely. Place the dressing at the bottom of the container and add sturdier ingredients like grains and chicken on top, followed by more delicate items like lettuce and feta. This method keeps everything crisp and prevents sogginess, ensuring that your meal is as enjoyable on day three as it was on day one.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Grain Bowl
- 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix and match your favorite vegetables and grains for a personalized touch!
Instructions
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the Chicken
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook marinated chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Let it rest before slicing.
Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Bowl
In a large bowl, layer the cooked quinoa or brown rice, followed by sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
Serve
Drizzle with dressing, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
This bowl can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Greek Chicken Grain Bowl even further, consider adding a side of tzatziki sauce. This cool, creamy yogurt-based dip complements the flavors of the chicken and adds another layer of Mediterranean flair. It’s perfect for dipping or drizzling over the top of your bowl.
Pair your grain bowl with a simple side salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice for a complete meal. The freshness of the salad enhances the overall experience and provides additional vitamins and minerals.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Greek Chicken Grain Bowl can last for up to three days; however, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness.
When reheating, warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Be cautious not to overheat the vegetables, as you want them to retain their crunch. If you're enjoying it cold, simply drizzle with dressing and enjoy!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different protein?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free grains such as quinoa or rice, and ensure your dressing ingredients are gluten-free.
→ Can I prepare this bowl in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and grains in advance and assemble the bowl when ready to eat.
→ What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding roasted red peppers, artichokes, or a sprinkle of za'atar for an extra flavor boost.
Greek Chicken Grain Bowl
Enjoy a nutritious and delicious Greek chicken grain bowl that brings together fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors for a satisfying meal.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Hearty Home Cooking
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Grain Bowl
- 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook marinated chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Let it rest before slicing.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
In a large bowl, layer the cooked quinoa or brown rice, followed by sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
Drizzle with dressing, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g