Transport yourself to the Mediterranean with our Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowl, a flavorful and nutrient-packed dish that captures the essence of Greek cuisine. This bowl features succulent chicken marinated in aromatic herbs and spices, paired with a vibrant array of fresh vegetables, quinoa, and a tangy tzatziki sauce. Beyond its delectable taste, this under-800-calories meal offers a host of health benefits. The lean protein from chicken, coupled with the fiber-rich quinoa and an abundance of vegetables, makes it a well-rounded and satisfying option. Immerse yourself in the flavors of Greece while nourishing your body with a wholesome and balanced bowl that caters to both your culinary cravings and your health-conscious choices.
Ingredients:
- – 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- – 2 tablespoons olive oil
- – 2 cloves garlic, minced
- – 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- – 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- – Salt and pepper to taste
- – 2 cups cooked quinoa
- – 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- – 1 cucumber, diced
- – 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- – Kalamata olives, pitted
- – Feta cheese, crumbled
- – Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
– Tzatziki Sauce:
- – 1 cup Greek yogurt
- – 1 cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess liquid
- – 2 cloves garlic, minced
- – 1 tablespoon olive oil
- – 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- – Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill for 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
- In a small bowl, mix together the ingredients for the tzatziki sauce: Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Assemble the Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowl by dividing cooked quinoa among serving bowls. Top with grilled chicken skewers, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Drizzle tzatziki sauce over the bowl and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately, savoring the Mediterranean flavors of this delicious and health-conscious bowl.
Health Benefits
The Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowl is not just a culinary delight but also a nutritional powerhouse that boasts a myriad of health benefits. Chicken, a lean source of protein, is essential for muscle health and provides satiety without excess calories. Quinoa contributes plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a wholesome and satisfying grain. The inclusion of fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion adds vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the mix, supporting overall well-being.
The Tzatziki sauce not only enhances the flavor but also brings the benefits of probiotics from Greek yogurt and the anti-inflammatory properties of garlic and olive oil. The Mediterranean diet, known for its heart-healthy qualities, is well-reflected in this bowl, offering a balance of macronutrients, micronutrients, and healthy fats. The combination of lean protein, whole grains, vegetables, and a flavorful sauce makes this bowl a nutrient-dense option that aligns with a health-conscious lifestyle. By savoring the Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowl, you’re not only treating your taste buds to a Mediterranean feast but also providing your body with a well-rounded and nourishing meal that supports your journey towards optimal health.