Description
Savor Mediterranean flavors with these Greek Chicken Bowls, a delightful journey through zesty ingredients and fresh textures. Colorful layers of marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy tzatziki create a satisfying meal that transports you to the sunny coastlines of Greece.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Marinade:
- 4 small chicken breasts (about 1 1/4 pounds or 567 grams)
- 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Fresh Vegetables and Grains:
- 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
- 2 cups halved grape or cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups diced cucumber
- 4 cups shredded romaine lettuce
- 1 cup sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup feta cheese
Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup grated cucumber
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill
Instructions
- Create a robust marinade by whisking together Greek-inspired seasonings until well combined, ensuring even flavor distribution.
- Tenderize chicken breasts to uniform thickness, then thoroughly coat with marinade and refrigerate for minimum 30 minutes to enhance taste absorption.
- Prepare cool, creamy tzatziki sauce by blending yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs, then chill in refrigerator to allow flavors to meld.
- Preheat air fryer to 380°F or heat skillet over medium-high heat for chicken cooking.
- Cook chicken in air fryer for 7 minutes, carefully flip, then continue cooking 3-4 minutes until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove chicken from heat source and let rest 5 minutes to retain moisture and ensure even juice distribution.
- Slice chicken into thin, diagonal strips for optimal presentation and easier eating.
- Construct bowl by first laying a base of fluffy rice, then arranging colorful vegetables.
- Strategically place sliced chicken atop vegetables for visual appeal.
- Crown the bowl with generous dollop of chilled tzatziki sauce.
- Optional: Enhance flavor profile by drizzling with extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice just before serving.
Notes
- Tenderize chicken evenly by gently pounding to ensure uniform marination and quick, consistent cooking.
- Marinate chicken for maximum flavor by letting it sit in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours, not just 30 minutes.
- Customize tzatziki by adjusting yogurt thickness with extra strained Greek yogurt for a creamier texture or adding fresh herbs like dill.
- Accommodate dietary needs by substituting rice with quinoa for a protein-packed alternative or using cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg