Introduction
Welcome to a delicious journey to the Mediterranean with these vibrant Greek Chicken Bowls! Perfectly seasoned, juicy chicken thighs meld beautifully with fluffy quinoa and a colorful array of fresh vegetables. This dish not only brings a burst of flavor and texture to your table but is also a wholesome, nourishing meal that will leave you feeling satisfied. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or planning a meal prep for the week ahead, these bowls are as versatile as they are delightful!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 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
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Tzatziki sauce for serving (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat to get that lovely char on the chicken.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them thoroughly in the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow those flavors to seep in.
- While the chicken is soaking up that delicious marinade, cook the quinoa. In a saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a rolling boil. Stir in the rinsed quinoa, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is fully absorbed. Once cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside.
- Grill the marinated chicken thighs for approximately 6-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through with juices running clear. Once done, remove them from the grill and allow them to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- To assemble the bowls, start by dividing the fluffy quinoa among your serving dishes.
- Next, beautifully layer the grilled chicken slices over the quinoa, followed by a vibrant medley of cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and a generous sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese.
- Finish off with a drizzle of fresh lemon juice over each bowl and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for that perfect pop of color.
- Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce, if desired, for an extra touch of creamy goodness!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize these Greek Chicken Bowls with your favorite veggies or add some roasted red peppers for an extra zing. If you prefer a different protein, grilled shrimp or lamb would also work wonderfully in this dish. For meal prep, assemble the bowls in individual containers but keep the dressing on the side to prevent sogginess until you’re ready to eat!
Cooking Techniques
Grilling the chicken not only adds a delightful smokiness but also helps keep it tender and juicy. If you don’t have a grill, a stovetop grill pan or even baking the chicken in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes will work well. The key is to let the chicken rest before slicing to keep all those juices inside.
FAQ
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the quinoa and grill the chicken in advance. Just store everything separately in the fridge and assemble when you’re ready to eat.
What can I substitute for quinoa? If quinoa isn’t your preference, you can swap it out for couscous, brown rice, or even a leafy green base like spinach or arugula for a lower-carb option.
Conclusion
Your kitchen is now filled with the enticing aromas of the Mediterranean, and your table is ready to showcase these colorful Greek Chicken Bowls! Bursting with flavor and topped with fresh ingredients, this meal will transport you to sun-drenched shores with every delicious bite. Enjoy sharing this wholesome feast with your family and friends, and savor the joy that comes from good food made with love!