Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowls

This Greek chicken bowl recipe has become my weeknight saving grace, combining fresh Mediterranean flavors with a protein-packed, low-carb profile that leaves you satisfied without the carb crash.

I first created these bowls when trying to cut back on carbs without sacrificing flavor. My family now requests them weekly and guests always ask for the recipe after their first bite.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: fresh or frozen works fine but thawed completely before marinating
• Olive oil: use extra virgin for best Mediterranean flavor
• Lemon juice: freshly squeezed provides brightest flavor
• Minced garlic: prefer fresh over jarred for authentic taste
• Dried oregano: authentic Greek oregano offers the most traditional flavor
• Ground cumin: adds warmth and depth to the marinade
• Salt and pepper: kosher salt works best for even distribution

• Chopped romaine lettuce: look for crisp hearts with no browning
• Cucumber: English seedless varieties stay firmer in the bowl
• Cherry tomatoes: select bright red ones for sweetest flavor
• Red onion: thinly sliced to provide flavor without overpowering
• Kalamata olives: authentic Greek varieties have the best flavor profile
• Crumbled feta cheese: buy a block and crumble yourself for best texture
• Avocado: choose slightly firm ones that yield gently to pressure

• Greek yogurt: full fat provides the creamiest texture
• Grated cucumber: removing excess moisture prevents watery sauce
• Garlic: one small clove avoids overwhelming the delicate sauce
• Lemon juice: brightens and balances the creamy yogurt
• Fresh dill: the signature herb that makes tzatziki distinctive
• Olive oil: creates silky texture and authentic flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Combine your marinade ingredients in a bowl until well integrated. The acid from the lemon begins tenderizing while the oregano and cumin create a flavor foundation. Pour over chicken breasts ensuring complete coverage. Allow at least 15 minutes at room temperature or ideally refrigerate for several hours for maximum flavor penetration.

Cook the Chicken:

Preheat your cooking surface until it just begins smoking. Place marinated chicken down and let sear undisturbed for 4 minutes to develop caramelization. Flip once and cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F which ensures food safety while maintaining juiciness. Allowing the chicken to rest before slicing prevents moisture loss and ensures juicy results.

Make the Tzatziki Sauce:

Grate cucumber using the fine side of a box grater then squeeze firmly between paper towels to remove excess water. This prevents watery sauce later. Combine with yogurt and remaining ingredients until smooth and creamy. The flavors meld and develop when chilled for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Assemble the Bowls:

Start with a generous bed of greens as your foundation. Arrange colorful vegetables in sections around the bowl for visual appeal. Place sliced chicken prominently across the top. Drizzle tzatziki sauce generously over everything. Finish with feta crumbles and avocado slices which add creamy elements that balance the bright flavors.

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The secret ingredient that makes this dish special is the combination of dried oregano and fresh dill. My Greek grandmother always insisted on this pairing for authentic Mediterranean flavor. When I first made these bowls for her, she nodded approvingly and said they reminded her of summers in Santorini.

Storage Solutions

These bowls maintain maximum freshness when components are stored separately. Keep the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to four days. Store tzatziki sauce in a separate glass container where it stays fresh for up to five days. Prep vegetables ahead but keep avocado whole until serving day to prevent browning. When ready to eat, assembly takes just minutes from refrigerator to table.

Dietary Adaptations

This recipe easily adapts to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. For dairy free versions substitute coconut yogurt for Greek yogurt and omit feta cheese or replace with nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor. Those following keto diets can increase oil quantities for higher fat content. Vegetarians might replace chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or marinated tofu using the same seasoning blend. The flexible nature makes it perfect for families with diverse dietary preferences.

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Serving Suggestions

While delicious as presented, these bowls welcome creative additions. Serve with warm pita bread on the side for those not watching carbs. A simple lemon and olive oil dressed grain like quinoa or farro makes this heartier for active individuals. For entertaining, create a build your own bowl bar with all components displayed separately allowing guests to customize proportions. A chilled glass of crisp white wine like Assyrtiko perfectly complements the Mediterranean flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I make this dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, use a non-dairy yogurt for the tzatziki and omit the feta cheese.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work just as well and will stay tender and flavorful when grilled or pan-seared.

→ What are some low-carb substitutes for the bowl base?

Instead of lettuce, try serving the chicken and toppings over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for additional low-carb options.

→ How should I store the leftovers?

Store components separately: chicken and tzatziki in airtight containers, and veggies in another. Assemble fresh when ready to eat.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken the night before, prep the veggies, and make the tzatziki ahead of time for quick assembly later.