How to Make the Best Greek Chicken Bowl (Meal Prep Friendly!)

If you’re craving a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal, this Greek Chicken Bowl is a must-try. Juicy marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, fluffy rice, and a creamy tzatziki sauce come together to create a delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or meal prep option. This recipe is packed with protein, fresh ingredients, and bold flavors, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.

In this article, you’ll learn:
✔️ How to make a Greek Chicken Bowl step-by-step
✔️ The best marinade for juicy Greek chicken
✔️ Healthy variations for low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diets
✔️ The best toppings and sauces to customize your bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ High in Protein & Nutrients – Packed with lean chicken, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats
✔️ Easy to Make – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep
✔️ Perfect for Meal Prep – Make ahead and enjoy for lunch or dinner throughout the week
✔️ Versatile & Customizable – Swap out ingredients to fit your dietary preferences
✔️ Bold Mediterranean Flavors – A delicious blend of Greek-inspired herbs and spices

🥘 Ingredients for Greek Chicken Bowl

Fresh ingredients for a Greek Chicken Bowl, including raw marinated chicken, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, feta cheese, tzatziki sauce, and rice, arranged neatly on a wooden cutting board.

🍗 For the Greek Chicken Marinade:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 chicken thighs)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

🥗 For the Bowl Base:

  • 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
  • 1 cup chopped cucumbers
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup kalamata olives
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

🥣 For the Tzatziki Sauce:

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • ½ cucumber, grated & drained
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp dried dill
  • ½ tsp salt

📝 Tip: For extra flavor, add a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Juicy marinated Greek chicken grilling on a hot cast-iron pan, with a golden-brown sear and slightly charred edges, releasing flavorful juices.

1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken:

  • In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  • Add the chicken and coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).

2️⃣ Cook the Chicken:

  • Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

3️⃣ Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:

  • In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, dried dill, and salt.
  • Stir well and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors blend.

4️⃣ Assemble the Bowl:

  • Start with a base of cooked rice or cauliflower rice.
  • Top with sliced chicken, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese.
  • Drizzle with tzatziki sauce and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

🔥 Enjoy your Greek Chicken Bowl!

📦 How to Store & Meal Prep

✔️ Refrigerator: Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
✔️ Freezer: Marinated chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months before cooking.
✔️ Reheating: Reheat chicken in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

🚨 Common Problems & Solutions

ProblemSolution
Chicken is dryMarinate longer and don’t overcook. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
Tzatziki sauce is too wateryDrain the grated cucumber before mixing.
Rice is blandCook it with chicken broth, garlic, or lemon zest for extra flavor.

🍽️ Variations & Customizations

✔️ Low-Carb/Keto: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
✔️ Vegetarian: Swap chicken for chickpeas or grilled tofu.
✔️ Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or harissa to the marinade.
✔️ Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free yogurt for the tzatziki sauce.

📌 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1️⃣ Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and have more flavor due to their higher fat content. If using thighs, adjust the cooking time to 6-8 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

2️⃣ Can I make this meal ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken, prepare the tzatziki sauce, and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Store each component separately in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, simply assemble and serve.

3️⃣ What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store components separately in airtight containers to keep everything fresh:

  • Chicken: Up to 4 days in the fridge.
  • Tzatziki Sauce: Up to 5 days in the fridge.
  • Vegetables & Rice: Store for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

4️⃣ Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes! You can freeze the raw, marinated chicken for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.

5️⃣ What’s the best way to reheat Greek Chicken Bowls?

  • Chicken: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
  • Rice: Add a splash of water and microwave for 30 seconds to keep it moist.
  • Tzatziki Sauce & Fresh Vegetables: Serve cold—no need to reheat.

6️⃣ Can I use store-bought tzatziki instead of homemade?

Yes, but homemade tzatziki has a fresher taste and allows you to control the ingredients. If using store-bought, look for a Greek yogurt-based version for the best texture.

7️⃣ How can I make this bowl dairy-free?

Swap the Greek yogurt in the tzatziki sauce for dairy-free coconut yogurt or cashew yogurt. Omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative.

8️⃣ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use gluten-free rice or cauliflower rice, this meal is naturally gluten-free. Avoid adding pita bread if you need a completely gluten-free meal.

9️⃣ What other toppings can I add to this Greek Chicken Bowl?

You can customize your bowl with:

  • Hummus – Adds a creamy, rich texture.
  • Roasted chickpeas – Adds crunch and extra protein.
  • Grilled eggplant or zucchini – Enhances Mediterranean flavors.
  • Sliced avocado – For extra creaminess and healthy fats.

🔟 What kind of rice is best for this bowl?

  • White Rice: Light and fluffy, a neutral base for bold flavors.
  • Brown Rice: Nutty and high in fiber, great for a healthier option.
  • Cauliflower Rice: Low-carb and keto-friendly.

1️⃣1️⃣ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with:

  • Grilled tofu or tempeh – Great plant-based protein options.
  • Falafel – Adds extra texture and classic Greek flavor.
  • Roasted chickpeas – Crispy and packed with protein.

1️⃣2️⃣ What’s the best way to add more spice?

If you like spicy Greek flavors, add:

  • Red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade.
  • Harissa or sriracha to the tzatziki sauce.
  • Spicy hummus as an extra topping.

1️⃣3️⃣ Can I cook the chicken in an air fryer?

Yes! To cook Greek chicken in an air fryer, preheat to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

1️⃣4️⃣ Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

1️⃣5️⃣ Can I turn this into a wrap instead of a bowl?

Absolutely! Use pita bread or a whole wheat wrap and fill it with the same ingredients for a Greek Chicken Wrap.

1️⃣6️⃣ How do I make the chicken extra tender?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results). The lemon juice and olive oil in the marinade help break down the meat, making it extra tender.

1️⃣7️⃣ Can I make this bowl without onions?

Yes! If you’re sensitive to raw onions, try using pickled red onions for a milder flavor or omit them altogether.

1️⃣8️⃣ How can I make this meal even healthier?

  • Use quinoa instead of rice for more fiber.
  • Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
  • Use low-fat Greek yogurt for a lighter tzatziki sauce.

1️⃣9️⃣ What side dishes go well with Greek Chicken Bowls?

  • Greek Salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, and olives.
  • Lemon Herb Couscous for an extra Mediterranean side.
  • Baba Ganoush or Hummus with pita chips.

2️⃣0️⃣ What’s the best way to add more flavor to the rice?

Cook the rice with chicken broth, garlic, lemon zest, and a drizzle of olive oil to enhance its flavor.

🎉 Final Thoughts: Try This Greek Chicken Bowl Today!

This Greek Chicken Bowl is healthy, packed with flavor, and easy to customize. Whether you’re making it for meal prep, a quick lunch, or a satisfying dinner, it’s a delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal you’ll love.

Try Next: If you’re a fan of easy yet flavorful recipes, don’t miss ourhomemade pancake mix Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken which pairs perfectly with this olive oil dip for an unforgettable dining experience! 

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A vibrant Greek Chicken Bowl with grilled marinated chicken, rice, fresh cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, olives, and a drizzle of creamy tzatziki sauce.

Greek Chicken Bowl


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  • Author: Chef Tima
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Greek Chicken Bowl is packed with marinated grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy tzatziki, making it the perfect healthy meal for lunch or dinner. Easy to make and perfect for meal prep!


Ingredients

Scale

🍗 For the Greek Chicken Marinade:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 chicken thighs)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

🥗 For the Bowl Base:

  • 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
  • 1 cup chopped cucumbers
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup kalamata olives
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

🥣 For the Tzatziki Sauce:

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • ½ cucumber, grated & drained
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp dried dill
  • ½ tsp salt

📝 Tip: Enable the shopping list checkbox so users can check off ingredients while shopping!


Instructions

1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken:

  • In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  • Add the chicken and coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).

2️⃣ Cook the Chicken:

  • Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

3️⃣ Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:

  • In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, dried dill, and salt.
  • Stir well and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors blend.

4️⃣ Assemble the Bowl:

  • Start with a base of cooked rice or cauliflower rice.
  • Top with sliced chicken, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese.
  • Drizzle with tzatziki sauce and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

🔥 Enjoy your Greek Chicken Bowl!

Notes

Make-Ahead Tip: Marinate the chicken and prep the tzatziki sauce up to 24 hours in advance.
Freezing Instructions: The marinated chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months before cooking.
Serving Suggestion: Serve with warm pita bread, lemon wedges, or extra tzatziki sauce.
Flavor Variations: Swap feta cheese for goat cheese or grilled halloumi.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Grilling, Pan-Searing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean, Greek

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 450kcal
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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