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Mediterranean cuisine is celebrated not only for its tantalizing flavors but also for its health benefits. Renowned for its emphasis on fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and balanced nutrition, the Mediterranean diet has been linked to numerous health advantages, including reduced risk of heart disease and improved overall well-being. At the heart of this culinary tradition lies a variety of dishes that showcase the richness of ingredients sourced from the land and sea. One such dish is the Zesty Greek Chicken Bowl, a vibrant meal that brings together succulent chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, tangy tzatziki sauce, making it both a nutritious and satisfying option for any meal.

Zesty Greek Chicken Bowls with Tzatziki

Discover the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with these Zesty Greek Chicken Bowls, featuring succulent marinated chicken, a tangy homemade tzatziki sauce, and a medley of fresh vegetables. This nutritious and visually appealing dish is perfect for lunch or dinner, offering a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Experience the health benefits of fresh ingredients while enjoying this easy-to-make recipe that encapsulates the essence of Greek cooking. Create a meal your whole family will love!

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Juice of 1 large lemon

2 teaspoons dried oregano

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

1 medium cucumber, shredded and excess moisture squeezed out

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 tablespoon fresh dill, minced (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)

Juice of 1/2 large lemon

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

For the Bowls:

2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced

1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (if time allows, marinate for up to 2 hours to enhance the flavor).

    Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt, shredded cucumber, minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.

      Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or an outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), with appetizing grill marks. After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized strips.

        Assemble the Bowls: Start by placing a generous scoop of quinoa or brown rice as the base in each serving bowl. Layer the grilled chicken strips on top, and then add halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, halved olives, and crumbled feta cheese.

          Add Tzatziki: Drizzle a hearty portion of the chilled tzatziki sauce over the beautifully assembled bowls. Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh, chopped parsley for an extra pop of color and freshness.

            Serve: Delight in your Zesty Greek Chicken Bowls immediately, with additional tzatziki served on the side for dipping or drizzling as desired!

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                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4 servings

                  Presentation Tips: Serve the bowls on a rustic wooden platter or individual colorful plates. Consider adding lemon wedges for a bright touch and extra herbs as a garnish for an appealing look.