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Healthy High-Protein Greek Chicken Bowl Recipe with Easy Lemon Herb Quinoa

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A wholesome and satisfying Greek chicken bowl featuring juicy marinated chicken breasts paired with bright, lemon herb quinoa. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a nourishing meal that feels fresh and filling.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g), pounded slightly for even cooking
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano (or fresh)
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup quinoa (170 g), rinsed thoroughly
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth (480 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cucumber, diced
  • Olives, sliced (Kalamata preferred)
  • Fresh lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 2 hours).
  2. Rinse quinoa under cold water using a fine mesh strainer. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.
  3. Fluff quinoa with a fork. While still warm, stir in olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, and mint. Add salt to taste.
  4. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Rest chicken for 5 minutes before slicing.
  5. While chicken rests, halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber, and slice olives.
  6. Assemble the bowl by placing lemon herb quinoa as the base, layering sliced chicken on top, and scattering veggies and feta cheese around. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Notes

Marinate chicken for 20 minutes to 2 hours to avoid drying or mushy texture. Rinse quinoa well to remove bitterness. Preheat pan properly for a good sear. Fluff quinoa and add herbs while warm for best flavor. For a dairy-free option, omit feta or substitute with avocado slices or coconut yogurt. Chicken thighs can be used but adjust cooking time accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek chicken bowl, high-protein chicken recipe, lemon herb quinoa, healthy chicken bowl, easy chicken dinner, meal prep chicken bowl