Name: Healthy Greek Chicken Bowls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 1/4 lb small chicken breasts (about 4 pieces); 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 4 cups romaine lettuce, shredded; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cups cucumber, diced; 2 cups white rice, cooked; 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese (optional); 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or low-fat sour cream); 1/2 cup cucumber, grated; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste

Jump to Recipe

Healthy Greek Chicken Bowls are the ultimate combination of fresh Mediterranean flavors, lean protein, and colorful vegetables—all served in a satisfying, balanced bowl. This recipe brings together juicy marinated chicken, fluffy rice, crisp veggies, and a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce for a meal that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep-friendly lunch option, this bowl delivers clean ingredients and bold taste in every bite.

The real beauty of this dish lies in its layers: the chicken is marinated in olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs, giving it that classic Greek flavor that pairs so well with the fresh ingredients in the bowl. Romaine lettuce adds crunch, cucumbers and tomatoes bring a burst of freshness, and the optional feta gives it a salty, creamy finish. The homemade tzatziki is creamy and cooling, balancing the warmth of the chicken with each spoonful. Plus, this meal is customizable—swap the rice for quinoa, go low-carb with cauliflower rice, or make it vegetarian with chickpeas. It’s a wholesome, feel-good meal that’s easy to prepare, satisfying to eat, and versatile enough to enjoy again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Full of Fresh Mediterranean Flavor – Lemon, herbs, olive oil, and garlic make every bite vibrant and delicious.

Well-Balanced Meal – Contains lean protein, healthy fats, whole grains, and plenty of vegetables.
Meal Prep Friendly – Perfect for making ahead and enjoying throughout the week.
Customizable – Easily adapted to suit low-carb, gluten-free, or vegetarian diets.

Homemade Tzatziki Sauce – Adds a cool, creamy contrast that elevates the whole bowl.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

Small chicken breasts
Olive oil

Honey
Lemon juice
Dried oregano

Lemon zest
Dried basil
Salt

Garlic powder
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Black pepper

Bowl Filling

Romaine lettuce
Cherry tomatoes
Cucumber

White rice
Red onion
Feta cheese (optional)

Tzatziki Sauce

Plain Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream
Cucumber
Fresh dill

Olive oil
Lemon juice
Garlic

Salt

Variations

Low-Carb: Swap white rice for cauliflower rice or skip it entirely.
Vegetarian: Replace chicken with grilled halloumi, falafel, or chickpeas.

Grain Swap: Use quinoa, brown rice, or farro in place of white rice.
Add More Veggies: Include roasted peppers, olives, or shredded carrots for extra color and crunch.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or extra red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine olive oil, honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, basil, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours in the fridge).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Let rest, then slice.

Step 3: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, dill, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt. Stir until smooth and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Layer the shredded romaine, cooked rice, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion in each bowl. Add the sliced chicken, spoon on the tzatziki sauce, and top with feta if using.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Marinate the chicken in advance to maximize flavor and save time.
Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.

Grate and squeeze out excess water from the cucumber before adding to tzatziki.
Use a sharp knife or mandoline for thin, even veggie slices.
Keep components separate for longer-lasting meal prep.

How to Serve

Serve these bowls fresh and slightly warm for the best experience. They’re perfect on their own but also pair nicely with warm pita bread, hummus, or a light lemon vinaigrette. Ideal for lunch or dinner, they also work well as part of a buffet or build-your-own bowl station for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. This keeps everything fresh and prevents sogginess.

Freezing

The marinated raw chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cooked chicken may also be frozen, but the fresh veggies and tzatziki are best kept refrigerated and not frozen.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken and rice gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Assemble with fresh veggies and tzatziki after reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and tend to be more flavorful and juicy.

2. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free grains like rice or quinoa and ensure all condiments are gluten-free.

3. Can I make the tzatziki in advance?

Absolutely, and it actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours.

4. How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes, but up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.

5. What can I use instead of tzatziki?

Try hummus, tahini sauce, or a lemony vinaigrette as an alternative.

6. Can I grill the chicken?

Yes, grilling adds great smoky flavor—just watch for doneness.

7. What rice is best for this bowl?

Any cooked white or brown rice works well. Quinoa is a great high-protein option.

8. How do I keep the veggies crisp?

Store them separately and assemble the bowls just before eating.

9. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, skip the feta and use a dairy-free yogurt for the tzatziki.

10. Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Definitely. Keep each element separate and combine when ready to eat for best results.

Conclusion

Healthy Greek Chicken Bowls are a delicious, nourishing way to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean at home. With juicy marinated chicken, crunchy vegetables, fluffy rice, and a creamy tzatziki sauce, these bowls offer both comfort and freshness in every bite. They’re easy to make, perfect for prepping ahead, and endlessly adaptable to your taste. Whether you’re looking for a clean eating option or just a satisfying meal with bold flavor, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.