Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that’s fresh, satisfying, and packed with bright Mediterranean flavors, you’re in for a treat. This Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl Recipe is one of my go-to weeknight dinners — it’s healthy, colorful, and so easy to make! Whether you’re new to cooking quinoa or want a delicious way to jazz up grilled chicken, I promise this bowl will quickly become a staple in your rotation.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Balanced Flavors: The tangy lemon dressing perfectly cuts through the richness of feta and olives, creating a harmonious taste in every bite.
  • Simple Prep: Minimal ingredients with straightforward steps make it accessible for any home cook, no matter your skill level.
  • Healthy & Filling: Quinoa is a complete protein, combined with lean chicken and fresh veggies, making this a nutritious all-in-one meal.
  • Customizable: You can swap veggies, use chicken thighs instead, or go vegetarian — this bowl adapts beautifully to your tastes and needs.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl Recipe plays its part to create a vibrant and tasty dish. The dressing’s lemon and oregano give that unmistakable Greek flair, while the quinoa acts as a fluffy, nutty base that soaks up all the flavors. Let me share a bit about the key ingredients here to help you pick the best ones at the store.

Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl, Greek Chicken Quinoa Salad, Mediterranean Chicken Bowl, Healthy Quinoa Bowls, Easy Greek Chicken Dinner - Flat lay of a small heap of uncooked quinoa grains, four raw boneless skinless chicken breasts with a natural pink tone, one whole English cucumber with deep green skin, four ripe Roma tomatoes with bright red skin, one medium red onion with smooth purple outer layers, a small white ceramic bowl of crumbled white feta cheese, a small white ceramic bowl of dark purple kalamata olives, two whole lemons—one cut in half showing juicy pulp, a small white ceramic bowl of golden olive oil, a small white ceramic bowl of light amber honey, one whole garlic bulb with papery white skin beside a few minced garlic cloves, a small white ceramic bowl with dried green oregano leaves, a small white ceramic bowl with dried light green basil leaves, a small white ceramic bowl of coarse kosher salt, a small white ceramic bowl of whole black peppercorns placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Quinoa: Make sure to rinse it before cooking to remove any bitterness; it cooks fluffy and light, perfect for soaking up the marinade.
  • Chicken breasts: I prefer boneless and skinless for ease, but thighs work if you want juicier meat. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
  • Olive oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds that authentic Mediterranean depth to the dressing, but avocado oil works fine too.
  • Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest brighten the entire bowl; bottled lemon juice just isn’t the same.
  • Honey: Balances the tartness of the lemon perfectly – you can swap for maple syrup if you’re avoiding honey.
  • Dried oregano and basil: These herbs bring that classic Greek flavor profile that makes this bowl sing.
  • Feta cheese: Crumbled on top, it introduces a salty, creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with the veggies and olives.
  • Kalamata olives: Their briny, slightly fruity flavor is an absolute must; just be sure to pit them beforehand for easy eating.
  • Fresh veggies (cucumber, tomatoes, red onion): Add crunch and freshness, balancing the richer ingredients.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the reasons I keep coming back to this Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl Recipe is because it’s so easy to tweak. I’ve tried it a bunch of ways depending on what I have at home or what flavors I’m craving. Feel free to make it your own — it’ll still taste fantastic!

  • Swap the Protein: I often switch chicken breasts for thighs when I want juicier, more flavorful meat. For vegetarian nights, just load it with more cucumbers, tomatoes, and a handful of chickpeas for protein.
  • Spicy Kick: Sometimes I add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a subtle heat, which plays deliciously with the feta.
  • Herb Variations: Fresh dill or mint tossed in at the end brings an extra burst of brightness you don’t want to miss out on.
  • Grain Options: If you’re not a quinoa fan, couscous or farro work well here — just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa Gently

Start by rinsing 1½ cups of quinoa under cold water; this really helps get rid of that natural bitterness. Add the quinoa to a saucepan with 2 cups of water and a generous pinch of salt, then bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cover and cook it for 12-15 minutes until tender and the water is absorbed. If there’s any leftover water, just drain it off. Then, remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature — trust me, cold or warm, quinoa is the perfect fluffy base for your bowl.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Bright & Zesty Dressing

Grab a small jar or bowl and add your dressing ingredients: ¼ cup olive oil, juice of 2 lemons, 1 tablespoon honey, ½ tablespoon lemon zest, 1 minced garlic clove, 2 teaspoons dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir or shake vigorously to emulsify the dressing — this mix doubles as a marinade, so you get double the flavor boost.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Pour about one-third of the dressing over the chicken breasts in a bowl or zip-lock bag, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Set aside the rest of the dressing to drizzle later — this way it stays fresh and won’t get contaminated by raw chicken juice. Even 20 minutes of marinating is enough to infuse some wonderful citrus-herb flavors, but if you have more time, 2 hours in the fridge is even better.

Step 4: Grill to Juicy Perfection

Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high and cook the chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side. The goal is an internal temperature of 165°F — I always keep a meat thermometer handy because overcooked chicken dries out fast, and nobody wants that. Once grilled, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy when sliced.

Step 5: Assemble Your Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl Recipe

Distribute the cooled quinoa evenly between bowls. Top with sliced grilled chicken and your fresh veggies — diced cucumber, chopped Roma tomatoes, and red onion. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and kalamata olives over the top, then drizzle with the remaining dressing for that final burst of flavor. Each bite is a vibrant mix of tangy, savory, and fresh — so satisfying!

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Tips from My Kitchen

  • Rinse Quinoa Thoroughly: This simple step avoids a bitter aftertaste and ensures your bowl tastes clean and fresh.
  • Keep Dressing Separate Until Serving: Marinating chicken is great, but don’t mix leftover dressing into the quinoa or veggies early—it keeps everything crisp and fresh.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: It’s the easiest way to perfectly cook your chicken without drying it out, trust me it’s worth it.
  • Rest Your Chicken: Let it sit for a few minutes before slicing to keep those juices locked in for tender bites.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl Recipe

Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl, Greek Chicken Quinoa Salad, Mediterranean Chicken Bowl, Healthy Quinoa Bowls, Easy Greek Chicken Dinner - The image shows a white bowl filled with a colorful healthy dish. At the center, there are four thick slices of grilled chicken with brown grill marks and a light golden color. Surrounding the chicken are four different sections: diced green cucumber mixed with black olives and crumbled white cheese, chopped red tomatoes mixed with small pieces of red onion and black olives, white crumbled cheese, and a base of light beige quinoa. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I like to finish my bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill when I have it — it adds a pop of color and herbaceousness that brightens every bite. Sometimes I throw in a few extra crumbles of feta or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil if I’m feeling fancy. And a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper on top never hurts!

Side Dishes

This bowl stands strong on its own, but if you want to add a side, simple grilled pita bread or warm flatbread works wonderfully. A side of tzatziki sauce adds creamy coolness, and a crisp Greek salad on the side rounds out the meal nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties or when I want to dress it up, I’ve served this bowl in mason jars layered beautifully—quinoa at the bottom, layered with chicken, then the veggies, and topped with feta and olives. It looks stunning, and guests love how easy it is to grab and go. Another fun idea is to turn it into wraps using warm flatbreads, perfect for casual lunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. Pro tip: Keep the dressing separate and add it fresh before eating to preserve the crispness of your veggies and quinoa texture.

Freezing

While I haven’t frozen the full assembled bowls, I have frozen leftover grilled chicken wrapped tightly in foil or in freezer bags. When reheated, it still tastes great and makes future meals quick and easy. Just cook fresh quinoa and veggies when you’re ready to eat.

Reheating

I gently reheat chicken in a skillet over medium heat to keep it from drying, and quinoa warms up beautifully in the microwave with a splash of water to maintain moisture. Once reheated, I toss the bowl components together with fresh veggies or just add the dressing before serving.

FAQs

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl Recipe?

    Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving if you’re worried about drying out the meat. Just adjust the grilling time to make sure they’re cooked through (usually a couple of minutes longer), and use a meat thermometer to check they reach 165°F internally for safety.

  2. Is it necessary to cook quinoa before adding it to the bowl?

    Yes, quinoa needs to be fully cooked until tender to be enjoyable in this bowl. Raw quinoa is tough and gritty. Once cooked, quinoa has a lovely fluffy texture and mild nutty flavor that complements the chicken and veggies perfectly.

  3. How long can I store leftovers of this Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl Recipe?

    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness — if you mix it in too early, the veggies and quinoa can get soggy.

  4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

    Definitely! Just skip the chicken and load up your bowl with extra veggies, chickpeas, or even grilled halloumi cheese for protein. The dressing is vegan-friendly, so you get the same fresh, bright flavors even without the meat.

  5. What can I substitute for honey in the dressing?

    You can swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar — both add that gentle sweetness needed to balance the lemon juice. It’s a great option if you prefer a vegan dressing or avoid honey.

Final Thoughts

I truly love how this Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl Recipe comes together effortlessly and tastes like a special occasion dinner any day of the week. It’s bright, balanced, and packed with wholesome ingredients that leave you feeling satisfied but not weighed down. If you’re looking for a healthy meal with tons of flavor that you can trust to please family or friends, give this recipe a shot — I know you’ll love it as much as I do!

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Greek Chicken Quinoa Bowl Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 3 reviews
  • Author: Lily
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 23 minutes
  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Greek

Description

A vibrant and healthy Greek Chicken Bowl featuring grilled marinated chicken breasts served over fluffy quinoa, topped with fresh cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, kalamata olives, and a zesty lemon herb dressing. Perfect for a nutritious and flavorful meal.


Ingredients

Dressing/Marinade

  • ¼ cup olive oil or avocado oil
  • 2 lemons, juiced
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • ½ tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Kosher pepper, to taste

Quinoa Bowls

  • 1 ½ cups quinoa, uncooked
  • 4 medium chicken breasts, 2 lbs boneless and skinless (32 ounces)
  • 1 English cucumber, diced
  • 4 Roma tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 medium red onion, diced
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 cup kalamata olives, pitted


Instructions

  1. Cook quinoa: Add 1 ½ cups quinoa and 2 cups water with a pinch of salt to a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 15 minutes or until quinoa is tender. Drain any excess water if needed, then set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare dressing/marinade: In a small jar, combine ¼ cup olive oil, juice of 2 lemons, 1 tablespoon honey, ½ tablespoon lemon zest, 1 minced garlic clove, 2 teaspoons dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, kosher salt, and pepper. Stir vigorously to emulsify.
  3. Marinate chicken: Pour one-third of the dressing over the chicken breasts, tossing to coat evenly. Reserve the remaining dressing for drizzling later, ensuring it does not come in contact with raw chicken.
  4. Grill chicken: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 8 minutes per side until cooked through and an internal temperature of 165°F is reached.
  5. Assemble bowls: Divide cooled quinoa among four bowls. Top with grilled chicken, diced cucumber, chopped tomatoes, and diced red onion.
  6. Add finishing touches: Sprinkle each bowl with 1 cup crumbled feta cheese and 1 cup pitted kalamata olives. Drizzle with the reserved dressing and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
  • Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for honey in the dressing.
  • Ensure chicken reaches 165°F to be safely cooked.
  • Use any neutral oil like avocado or grapeseed oil if olive oil is unavailable.
  • Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Boneless chicken thighs can be used as an alternative to chicken breasts.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and increase the amount of vegetables.
  • When meal prepping, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to preserve freshness.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg

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