Refreshing Chicken Tzatziki Bowls – A Light Mediterranean Lunch Idea

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to whisk your taste buds away to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean? ☀️ The Refreshing Chicken Tzatziki Bowl is a dish that captures all the bright, clean flavors of Greek cuisine in one satisfying, wholesome meal. It’s the kind of lunch that feels indulgent yet leaves you light and energized — perfect for busy days when you crave something fresh but comforting.

In the heart of every Greek home, simplicity reigns supreme. Fresh vegetables, grilled meats, fragrant herbs, and tangy yogurt come together in harmony, forming a meal that’s both nourishing and full of character. 🌿 With tender marinated chicken, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy tzatziki all layered over fluffy rice or grains, this recipe celebrates balance and tradition. Each bite delivers a cool, herby freshness that pairs beautifully with the subtle char of grilled chicken — a taste that’s timeless, honest, and full of sunshine. ☀️

---

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• ½ cucumber, grated and drained
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill (or mint)
• Salt, to taste

For the Bowls

• 2 cups cooked basmati or brown rice (or quinoa)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber slices
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup Kalamata olives
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

---

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
2. Grill or Pan-Sear:
   Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Prepare the Tzatziki:
   In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and chill until ready to serve.
4. Assemble the Bowls:
   Start with a base of warm rice or grains. Arrange sliced chicken, cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and olives on top. Spoon over a generous dollop of tzatziki and sprinkle with feta cheese.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   Drizzle with a little olive oil, scatter fresh parsley, and enjoy immediately. This dish tastes best when the ingredients are fresh and cool — a true Mediterranean delight! 🌿

---

Nutritional Information

⏰ Prep Time: 20 minutes | 🔥 Cook Time: 15 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 35 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: 410 | 🍽️ Servings: 4

---

#greekfood #tzatziki #mediterraneanlunch #healthyrecipes #freshflavors #lightmeals #homemadewithlove

Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️