Name: Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 to 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (4 thighs); 2 Tbsp avocado oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Zest of 1 lemon; 2 Tbsp lemon juice; 1/2 tsp paprika; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp sea salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 1.5 cups cucumber, chopped (1 large-sized cucumber); 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1 tsp dried dill or 1 sprig fresh dill; 2 Tbsp olive oil; 2 Tbsp lemon juice; 4 cups cooked brown rice; 1 batch Hummus; 1 batch Tzatziki Sauce; 1 cup feta cheese

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If you are craving a vibrant and satisfying meal that feels like a sunny Mediterranean getaway in every bite, this Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender lemon garlic chicken, fresh cucumber tomato salad, creamy hummus, tangy tzatziki, and fluffy brown rice, these bowls offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will have you looking forward to mealtime like never before. Whether you want a healthy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish, this recipe delivers freshness, warmth, and a burst of Greek-inspired goodness with every forkful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a black baking pan filled with eight pieces of golden-brown cooked chicken, arranged in two rows. Each chicken piece has a slightly crispy texture with a shiny glaze and is sprinkled with chopped green onions. Between the chicken pieces, thin lemon slices are placed, adding bright yellow and light translucent colors. The pan has some cooked sauce and small bits of seasoning scattered around, sitting on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe uses simple but essential ingredients that come together to create stunning flavors and colorful presentation. Each component brings something unique to the bowl, from juicy marinated chicken thighs to crisp salad veggies and rich, creamy sauces that make every bite memorable.

Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, perfect for absorbing zesty lemon garlic marinade flavors.
Avocado oil: A healthy, high-heat oil that helps keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
Garlic: Adds deep, aromatic essence to both the chicken and the cucumber tomato salad.
Lemon zest and juice: Freshens the chicken marinade with bright citrus notes that lift the whole dish.
Paprika and garlic powder: Seasonings that add subtle warmth and depth to the chicken.
Sea salt and black pepper: Enhances and balances the savory flavors throughout.
Cucumber and cherry tomatoes: Crisp, juicy vegetables that add vibrant texture and color to the salad.
Kalamata olives: Offering a salty, briny punch that defines Mediterranean cuisine.
Dill (dried or fresh): Herbal brightness that perfectly complements both salad and sauces.
Olive oil: The classic Mediterranean fat that brings luscious richness to the salad dressing.
Cooked brown rice: Nutty and wholesome, this acts as a hearty base to hold all the delicious toppings.
Hummus and tzatziki sauce: Creamy companions that add signature Greek flavors, cooling and savory.
Feta cheese: Crumbled on top for a tangy, salty finish that ties the whole bowl together.

How to Make Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumber Tomato Salad

Start by whisking together chopped cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, pitted kalamata olives, dill, olive oil, and lemon juice in a bowl. This fresh salad is your crisp, zesty contrast to the warm chicken and grain base. Cover it and chill in the refrigerator so the flavors can mingle and stay fresh until you’re ready to build your bowls.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl or measuring cup, mix avocado oil, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper to create a zesty marinade. Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly inside a zip lock bag or dish, then refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, ideally several hours or overnight. This step infuses the chicken with vibrant Mediterranean flavors that make the dish unforgettable.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Transfer the marinated chicken thighs onto a baking sheet or casserole dish in a single layer. Bake for 24-28 minutes until cooked through—chicken thighs are perfectly done between 180 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit internal temperature. Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to lock in those juicy flavors.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

Load large bowls first with a generous layer of warm brown rice, then add a scoop of cucumber tomato salad, a dollop of creamy hummus, thick slices of the lemon garlic chicken, a sprinkle of feta cheese, and finish with cool tzatziki sauce on top. Mix gently and enjoy all of the fresh, tangy, and savory elements coming together in perfect harmony!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe

Two wooden bowls are filled with a light base layer of rice, topped with sliced grilled chicken that is golden brown with light sear marks. One bowl has a dollop of light beige hummus on one side and a dollop of white creamy sauce sprinkled with green herbs on top of the chicken. Both bowls include a medley of chopped cucumber, halved bright red cherry tomatoes, and dark, glossy olives mixed with finely chopped purple onions, arranged next to the chicken and sauces. One bowl also features a lemon wedge placed on the side. The bowls are placed on a white marbled surface with an orange cloth and a silver fork nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe even more, consider adding chopped fresh parsley or extra dill on top. A wedge of lemon on the side not only looks inviting but lets everyone add a squeeze of fresh citrus for an extra burst of brightness. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a welcomed touch of heat for those who love a little spice.

Side Dishes

This recipe shines as a complete meal on its own, but if you’re serving guests or want to round it out, pairing the bowls with warm pita bread or a side of roasted vegetables complements the Mediterranean flavors beautifully. Light Greek salads or a simple olive tapenade make excellent side options that keep the meal exciting without overwhelming the main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the components deconstructed so everyone can customize their bowls exactly how they like. Alternatively, arrange ingredients in striped layers on a platter for a festive, colorful spread. Using beautifully patterned bowls or wooden serving boards gives presentation extra charm, turning your Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe into a centerpiece as delicious as it looks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers from your Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe, don’t fret—they keep wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. Store the chicken, rice, and salad separately to maintain the freshness and texture of each component. This way, nothing gets soggy and you can enjoy a quick and tasty reheat later in the week.

Freezing

While the chicken and rice freeze well, the fresh cucumber tomato salad and tzatziki sauce are best made fresh or stored in the refrigerator only. Freeze portions of the marinade-coated chicken thighs raw in an airtight container for up to 2 months, then thaw before baking for easy meal prep on busy days.

Reheating

When reheating your Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe leftovers, warm the chicken and rice gently in the oven or microwave until heated through, keeping the chicken tender and juicy. Add chilled salad and fresh tzatziki after reheating for that signature crisp, cool contrast.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work, though they are leaner and cook a bit faster. Just be careful not to overcook them to avoid dryness. Marinate as directed and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Is brown rice necessary, or can I substitute with white rice or quinoa?

You can definitely swap brown rice for white rice or even quinoa depending on your preference. Brown rice gives a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but the bowls will be delicious with any grain base.

How long can I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

Marinating for at least 15 minutes imparts good flavor, but for the best results, marinate the chicken for several hours or up to 24 hours. This allows the lemon, garlic, and spices to soak in fully and tenderize the meat beautifully.

Can I make the tzatziki and hummus myself or should I buy pre-made?

Both tzatziki and hummus are easy to make at home if you have the time, and homemade versions are extra fresh and flavorful. However, high-quality store-bought options work just fine to save time without sacrificing taste.

What can I serve alongside to make it a larger meal?

To round out your Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe for bigger appetites or gatherings, add warm pita bread, stuffed grape leaves, or a bright Greek salad. These sides complement the bowls without overpowering their wonderful flavors.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe enough for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, flavorful, and visually stunning meal that’s simple to make. It’s the kind of dish that makes weeknight dinners exciting and weekender meals a celebration. Give it a try—you’ll soon find it becoming one of your favorite go-to recipes for any occasion.

Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Greek Chicken Bowls Recipe