Greek Chicken Grain Bowl
Highlighted under: Nourishing Comfort Bowls
A wholesome and flavorful Greek chicken grain bowl packed with vibrant ingredients that celebrate Mediterranean cuisine.
This Greek chicken grain bowl is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It combines tender, marinated chicken with fresh vegetables, whole grains, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this bowl is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a great option for meal prepping!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and vibrant ingredients for a satisfying meal
- Packed with protein and fiber for a balanced diet
- Versatile and customizable to suit your taste preferences
A Taste of the Mediterranean
The Greek Chicken Grain Bowl is a delightful way to experience the rich flavors of the Mediterranean. With its fresh ingredients and vibrant colors, this dish not only pleases the eye but also offers a burst of taste with every bite. The combination of marinated chicken, crunchy vegetables, and creamy feta creates a harmonious balance that is both satisfying and nutritious.
In Mediterranean cuisine, meals are often centered around wholesome ingredients, and this grain bowl is no exception. The use of olive oil, fresh herbs, and citrus not only enhances flavor but also brings a wealth of health benefits. Olive oil is rich in healthy fats, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, making this dish a perfect choice for a balanced diet.
Customizable for Every Palate
One of the best aspects of the Greek Chicken Grain Bowl is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For those who prefer a vegetarian option, simply replace the chicken with grilled halloumi or chickpeas for a protein boost. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different grains like barley or bulgur to keep things interesting.
The toppings are equally customizable. Add roasted red peppers for a smoky touch, or toss in some artichoke hearts for an extra layer of flavor. The beauty of this grain bowl lies in its adaptability, allowing you to make it your own while still enjoying the essence of Greek cuisine.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Greek Chicken Grain Bowl is an excellent choice for meal prepping. Preparing a larger batch at the beginning of the week can save time and ensure you have healthy meals ready to go. Store the grain mixture and the sliced chicken separately to maintain freshness, and simply assemble your bowl when it’s time to eat.
Not only does this recipe make for a quick lunch or dinner option, but it also travels well. Pack it in a container for an on-the-go meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. Enjoy the convenience of having a delicious, homemade meal available at your fingertips.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Grain Bowl
- 2 cups cooked quinoa or farro
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all the ingredients for a delicious and nutritious meal!
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the Chicken
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest before slicing.
Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Grain Bowl
In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa or farro, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and olives. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.
Serve
Top the grain bowl with sliced chicken and garnish with chopped parsley. Enjoy your healthy Greek chicken grain bowl!
Enjoy your delicious Greek chicken grain bowl!
Nutritional Benefits
The Greek Chicken Grain Bowl is not just delicious, but it's also packed with nutritional benefits. Quinoa and farro are both whole grains that provide a good source of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer. Additionally, the chicken offers lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
The inclusion of fresh vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers adds a variety of vitamins and antioxidants, promoting overall health. Feta cheese contributes calcium and protein, while olives provide healthy fats that support heart health. This combination of ingredients makes the grain bowl a powerhouse of nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your dining experience, consider serving the Greek Chicken Grain Bowl with a side of tzatziki sauce. This refreshing yogurt-based sauce adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor that complements the dish perfectly. Additionally, a slice of crusty whole grain bread can be a delightful accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
For a complete Mediterranean experience, pair your meal with a glass of light, fruity white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp rosé. These beverages can elevate the flavors of the dish and make your meal feel even more special.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different grain?
Yes, you can substitute quinoa or farro with brown rice or bulgur.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
If you use quinoa, this recipe can be gluten-free. Make sure to check the grain you choose.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the dressing in advance to save time.
Greek Chicken Grain Bowl
A wholesome and flavorful Greek chicken grain bowl packed with vibrant ingredients that celebrate Mediterranean cuisine.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Nourishing Comfort Bowls
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Grain Bowl
- 2 cups cooked quinoa or farro
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest before slicing.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa or farro, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and olives. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.
Top the grain bowl with sliced chicken and garnish with chopped parsley. Enjoy your healthy Greek chicken grain bowl!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g