Start your meal prep with this Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl – a Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s as nutritious as it is tasty!
Whether you’re looking for a fresh lunch or a satisfying dinner, this recipe combines tender chicken, nutrient-packed quinoa, and vibrant vegetables.
It’s packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it the perfect choice for a well-rounded meal.
Ready to take your taste buds on a Greek adventure?
Let’s dive in!
What Makes a Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl So Healthy?
A Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl is not only delicious but also a powerhouse of nutrients. Here’s why it’s such a healthy option:
- Nutrient-rich base: Quinoa is a whole grain that’s naturally gluten-free and full of fiber. It’s also a complete protein, which means it contains all nine essential amino acids your body needs.
- Lean protein: Chicken provides lean protein that supports muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to stay energized and healthy.
- Healthy fats: Olive oil, a staple in Mediterranean diets, offers heart-healthy fats that can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease.
- Antioxidants and vitamins: Fresh veggies like cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, along with antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage.
Key Ingredients for Your Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl
The key to making this bowl so delicious is the simple, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Quinoa: The perfect base for a gluten-free, protein-packed meal. Quinoa is versatile and cooks quickly, making it a great option for weeknight meals.
- Chicken: Chicken breast or thighs, marinated in lemon, garlic, and herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
- Veggies: Fresh veggies like cucumber, red onion, tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and parsley add crunch, freshness, and color to the bowl.
- Tzatziki sauce: This creamy yogurt-based sauce is a Mediterranean classic made with garlic, cucumber, dill, and lemon. It brings everything together with a tangy kick.
- Feta cheese: A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese adds richness and a salty finish to the bowl, rounding out the flavors.
How to Make the Perfect Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl
This recipe is quick and easy to make! Follow these simple steps to create your Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl:
Step 1: Marinate the chicken
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) to let the flavors meld.
Step 2: Cook the quinoa
Rinse the quinoa under cold water and cook it in a pot with vegetable or chicken broth for added flavor. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid has absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
Step 3: Grill or pan-sear the chicken
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has a golden, crispy exterior. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Step 4: Prepare the veggies
Chop the cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in a bowl with Kalamata olives and fresh parsley. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Assemble the bowl
In a large bowl, layer the cooked quinoa, sliced chicken, and fresh veggies. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and drizzle with homemade tzatziki sauce. Toss gently to combine.
Tips for Customizing Your Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl
One of the best parts about this recipe is its versatility! You can easily customize it based on your preferences. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Add a protein boost: Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp, lamb, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Extra veggies: Add roasted red peppers, artichokes, or spinach for more variety and flavor.
- Make it spicy: If you like heat, top your bowl with red pepper flakes or a drizzle of spicy harissa sauce for an extra kick.
- Vegan option: Replace feta with a vegan cheese alternative and opt for chickpeas instead of chicken for a fully plant-based meal.
The Benefits of Eating a Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl
Aside from being tasty, this bowl is loaded with health benefits that make it the perfect addition to your meal plan:
- Boosts energy: With protein from quinoa and chicken, this meal fuels your body for hours, keeping you energized throughout the day.
- Supports digestion: The fiber in quinoa and fresh veggies aids digestion and helps you feel full longer.
- Rich in antioxidants: Ingredients like tomatoes, olives, and olive oil are packed with antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress.
- Heart-healthy: Olive oil, quinoa, and chicken help maintain a healthy heart by reducing bad cholesterol and promoting good circulation.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can! The chicken can be marinated the night before, and the quinoa and tzatziki sauce can be prepared a day ahead. Simply assemble the bowls when you’re ready to serve.
Can I add other toppings to this bowl?
Absolutely! Feel free to add roasted vegetables, hummus, avocado, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?
Yes, you can swap quinoa with brown rice for a different grain. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio accordingly.
Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Quinoa:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth for cooking quinoa
For the Veggies:
- 1 cucumber diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
- ½ red onion thinly sliced
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives pitted and sliced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- ¼ cucumber grated
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) in the refrigerator.
Cook the Quinoa:
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and broth. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
Grill or Pan-Sear the Chicken:
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice into thin strips.
Prepare the Veggies:
- While the chicken cooks, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and slice the red onion. Place them in a large bowl along with the Kalamata olives and parsley. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, dill, olive oil, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until smooth.
Assemble the Bowl:
- In serving bowls, layer the cooked quinoa, sliced chicken, and veggie mixture. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and drizzle with tzatziki sauce. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for later!