Description
Mediterranean flavors shine in these Greek Chicken Tzatziki Bowls, blending juicy marinated chicken, creamy tzatziki, and fresh vegetables. Zesty herbs and tangy sauce create a perfect harmony you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
Spices and Seasonings:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill or mint, chopped
Tzatziki and Other Ingredients:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- ½ cup cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (or quinoa)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Warm pita or naan (optional)
Instructions
- Create a zesty marinade by blending aromatic olive oil, tangy lemon juice, minced garlic, fragrant oregano, warm cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Immerse chicken pieces thoroughly in the marinade, ensuring complete coverage, and allow flavors to penetrate for a minimum of 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Preheat a skillet or grill to medium-high temperature, creating an ideal searing environment for the marinated chicken.
- Transfer marinated chicken to the hot cooking surface, allowing each side to caramelize and develop a golden-brown crust for approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Verify chicken’s doneness by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), which guarantees safe and juicy meat.
- Remove chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute and ensure maximum tenderness.
- Slice the rested chicken into elegant, uniform strips, preparing it for integration with the tzatziki and accompanying ingredients in the bowl.
- Layer sliced chicken over a bed of fresh greens, rice, or grains, and generously dollop with cool, creamy tzatziki sauce.
Notes
- Marinating chicken for at least 30 minutes allows deeper flavor penetration, making the meat more tender and juicy.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for brighter, more vibrant citrus notes that complement the Mediterranean-style seasoning.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure all ingredients like spices are certified gluten-free and serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional grains.
- Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts to reduce cooking time and maintain lean protein profile while keeping the dish light and healthy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 66 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg