Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowl Recipe

Picture this: the moment you slice into juicy, perfectly grilled chicken, kissed with charred edges and fragrant Greek herbs fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Vibrant pops of ruby tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, cool cucumber, and creamy feta cheese come together in a bowl that’s as colorful as it is flavorful. This Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowl Recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh Mediterranean flavors that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Ready in just 30 minutes, it promises a quick, wholesome escape to sun-soaked Greece without leaving your home.

Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowl Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe fits perfectly into busy weeknights when you want something tasty without the fuss.
  • Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and everyday fresh produce, making it accessible and budget-friendly.
  • Perfect for Weeknights: Minimal cleanup and no complicated steps make this ideal for fast, feel-good dinners.
  • Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and varied textures create a dish that looks as delightful as it tastes.
  • Customizable: Easily adjust veggies, herbs, or protein to suit your preferences or what’s on hand.

Why This Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowl Recipe Works

This recipe shines because of its balance between simplicity and authentic flavor. First, marinating the chicken in a zesty Greek dressing packed with oregano, garlic, and red wine vinegar ensures each bite is tender and infused with Mediterranean zest. Next, grilling the chicken to create those signature char marks adds a smoky depth that elevates the dish beyond ordinary. Finally, the cauliflower rice swaps traditional grains while absorbing the bold seasoning, making the bowl light yet satisfying. Altogether, these techniques guarantee a harmonious, low-carb meal bursting with vibrant taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Single white bowl featuring a plated serving of grilled chicken slices with char marks sitting atop fluffy couscous mixed with crumbled feta cheese, accompanied by a dollop of creamy tzatziki sauce sprinkled with cracked black pepper and fresh dill sprigs, bright Kalamata olives, and tender roasted red onions on the side, close-up angled view revealing the juicy chicken interior and textured couscous, styled naturally on a white marble surface with soft daylight, intimate food blog style photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowl Recipe lies in straightforward, wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly to deliver big flavor.

  • Chicken breasts: Provides lean protein and a hearty base for the bowl.
  • English cucumber: Adds refreshing crunch and a cool contrast.
  • Red onion: Brings a mild sharpness to balance the richness.
  • Grape or cherry tomatoes: Burst of juicy sweetness enhances every bite.
  • Kalamata olives: Offer salty, briny depth true to Greek cuisine.
  • Crumbled feta cheese: Creamy, tangy topping that melts perfectly with the other flavors.
  • Tzatziki sauce: Cool, garlicky accompaniment that ties the dish together.
  • Fresh herbs (dill or parsley): Brightens and freshens the final presentation.
  • Extra virgin olive oil: Forms the rich base of the marinade and sautéing.
  • Red wine vinegar: Adds a tangy punch with depth.
  • Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle heat and emulsifies the dressing.
  • Garlic and dried oregano: Infuse classic Greek flavor.
  • Frozen cauliflower rice: Low-carb alternative to grains, providing texture without heaviness.
  • Honey or sugar: Balances the acidity in the marinade.
  • Seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic salt): Essential to enhance every ingredient’s natural flavors.
  • Fresh lemon wedges: Extra brightness to finish the cauliflower rice.

Ingredient Substitutions & Tips

  • Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for juicier results.
  • Kalamata olives: Substitute with green olives for a milder taste, or capers for extra brininess.
  • Frozen cauliflower rice: Fresh cauliflower finely grated works well if you prefer.
  • Tzatziki sauce: Greek yogurt mixed with grated cucumber, garlic, and dill is a homemade alternative.

👨‍🍳 Pro Tips for Perfect Results

  • Marinate longer for flavor: If you have time, let the chicken soak in the Greek marinade for up to 4 hours to deepen the taste.
  • Don’t skip resting: Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling keeps it juicy and tender.
  • Use a grill pan or outdoor grill: For authentic grill marks and that smoky flavor that makes this bowl truly special.
  • Season the cauliflower rice well: Garlic salt and oregano give it a Mediterranean flair that complements the chicken perfectly.
  • Slice chicken against the grain: Ensures each bite is tender and easy to eat.

How to Make Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowl Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Greek Dressing / Marinade

In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried minced onion, honey, salt, minced garlic, dried oregano, and black pepper. Shake vigorously until everything emulsifies into a thick, fragrant dressing bursting with tangy and herby notes.

💡 Pro Tip: Use a clean jar to shake – it’s the easiest way to fully incorporate the dressing ingredients.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your pounded chicken breasts into a large zip-top bag. Pour in about 1/3 cup of the dressing, add extra salt and pepper as desired, seal the bag, and gently massage to evenly coat each piece. Pop it into the fridge and let the flavors mingle for at least 30 minutes, or longer if you can spare the time.

💡 Pro Tip: Marinating tenderizes the chicken and enhances every bite with rich Mediterranean flavor.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Heat a grill pan over high heat or get your outdoor grill roaring at around 500°F (260°C). Place the marinated chicken on the grill, then lower the heat slightly to medium-high. Let the chicken cook until the edges char beautifully and the meat releases easily from the grill, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Spoon a little marinade on top before flipping for extra moistness.

💡 Pro Tip: Look for those golden grill marks – they’re a sign you’re nailing that smoky, restaurant-quality flavor!

Step 4: Rest and Slice

Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 10 minutes. This step locks in the juices. After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips against the grain for maximum tenderness.

💡 Pro Tip: Resting is crucial to prevent drying out and to keep the chicken juicy and flavorful.

Step 5: Prepare the Cauliflower Rice

Heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add frozen cauliflower rice and season with garlic salt, black pepper, and a pinch of dried oregano. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until tender and warmed through. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and give it a good stir to brighten up the flavors.

💡 Pro Tip: Lemon juice adds a fresh pop that complements the smoky chicken beautifully.

Step 6: Assemble the Bowls

Divide the warm cauliflower rice among four bowls. Top each with sliced grilled chicken, chopped cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, halved grape tomatoes, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, dollops of creamy tzatziki sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley. Drizzle with extra Greek dressing for that final flavor boost.

💡 Pro Tip: Layer the ingredients for a colorful, eye-catching presentation that whets the appetite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from these common pitfalls:

  • Skipping the marinade: Without marinating, the chicken can taste bland and dry.
  • Overcooking the chicken: Grill just until cooked through to keep it juicy, not tough.
  • Not resting the chicken: Slicing hot chicken can release juices prematurely, drying out the meat.
  • Under-seasoning the cauliflower rice: Dull rice can make the bowl one-dimensional.
  • Using too much dressing on the chicken: Excess marinade can cause flare-ups on the grill and soggy texture.
  • Neglecting fresh herbs: They add brightness and visual appeal that lifts the whole dish.

Delicious Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic version:

Spicy Greek Chicken Bowl

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a gentle kick that awakens your palate with Mediterranean heat.

Lemon Herb Twist

Use fresh lemon zest in the dressing and add chopped fresh mint alongside dill for an extra burst of citrus-herbal freshness.

Avocado and Cucumber Salsa

Top your bowl with a chunky avocado and cucumber salsa mixed with lime juice, olive oil, and chopped parsley for creaminess and crunch.

Grilled Vegetable Medley

Replace some of the cucumber and tomatoes with grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions for a smoky vegetable upgrade.

Vegan Version

Swap chicken with grilled marinated tofu or tempeh and omit feta or use plant-based alternatives while keeping all other components the same.

How to Serve Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowl Recipe

Large white bowl filled with a generous serving of Greek chicken bowl ingredients arranged in sections, featuring whole grilled chicken pieces with char marks, bright green cucumber slices, halved cherry tomatoes, deep purple Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, red onion strips, fluffy cauliflower rice, and a dollop of creamy tzatziki sauce topped with fresh dill sprigs, whole dish photographed from above on a white marble countertop with natural lighting, professional food styling photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or dill adds a pop of color and brightness. More crumbled feta or a spoonful of tangy tzatziki on top enhances creaminess and flavor depth.

Side Dishes

Pair with a crisp Greek salad or a handful of roasted garlic lemon asparagus for complementary freshness and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the bowls on rustic wooden boards for casual family-style meals, or arrange ingredients in layered glass jars for delightful on-the-go lunches packed with colors and textures.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover grilled chicken and cauliflower rice in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store veggies and tzatziki separately if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked chicken slices and cauliflower rice individually in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat chicken and cauliflower rice in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep moisture. Avoid microwaving too long to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer juicier, more flavorful meat and work wonderfully with this marinade and cooking method.

Is this recipe truly low carb?

Yes, swapping rice with cauliflower rice keeps carb counts low while providing satisfying texture and volume.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes is ideal, but up to 4 hours deepens the herb and garlic flavors beautifully without overpowering.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s perfect for gluten-sensitive diets.

What if I don’t have a grill pan or outdoor grill?

You can use a well-heated cast-iron skillet or grill the chicken under the broiler, watching closely for char and doneness.

How can I make the tzatziki sauce at home?

Mix Greek yogurt with finely grated cucumber, garlic, fresh dill, a squeeze of lemon, and salt for a quick and refreshing homemade tzatziki.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! The components keep well in the fridge, and you can assemble bowls for grab-and-go meals during the week.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to toss in roasted peppers, zucchini, or even spinach to vary textures and flavors.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a meal that marries simplicity with bold, fresh flavors, and this Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowl Recipe does just that. It’s a dish that feels both nourishing and indulgent, bringing sunshine to your table any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, the layers of juicy grilled chicken, creamy feta, crisp veggies, and herby dressing combine for a satisfying escape to the Mediterranean.

Have you tried this Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowl Recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below. If you loved this recipe, please share it with friends and family. Happy cooking! 😊

Print

Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowl Recipe

This Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowl is a vibrant, healthy meal featuring marinated grilled chicken breasts served atop lemony cauliflower rice, complemented by fresh cucumber, red onion, tomatoes, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce. Completed with a zesty Greek dressing and fresh herbs, this dish offers a Mediterranean-inspired flavor packed with protein and low in carbs, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.

  • Author: Natali
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Greek
  • Diet: Low Carb

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Bowl

  • 2 chicken breasts (about 1 lb), pounded to an even thickness
  • 1 English cucumber, quartered and chopped
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • Grape or cherry tomatoes, halved (about 1 cup)
  • Kalamata olives, halved (about 1/2 cup)
  • Crumbled feta cheese (1/2 cup)
  • Tzatziki sauce (1/2 cup)
  • Fresh herbs, chopped (dill or parsley, about 2 tablespoons)

For the Greek Dressing / Marinade

  • 1 scant cup extra virgin olive oil (approx. 78 tablespoons)
  • 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (6 tablespoons total)
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried minced onion or 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon honey or granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 garlic clove, minced or pressed
  • 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Black pepper, to taste

For the Cauliflower Rice

  • Frozen cauliflower rice (about 4 cups)
  • Extra virgin olive oil (1 tablespoon)
  • Garlic salt (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon)
  • Pinch of dried oregano
  • Fresh lemon wedges (for finishing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Greek Dressing / Marinade: Add all dressing ingredients (extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried minced onion, honey, salt, garlic, dried oregano, and black pepper) to a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Shake well until fully combined to create the flavorful Greek marinade.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag. Pour in 1/3 cup of the prepared Greek dressing, season with extra salt and pepper if desired, seal the bag, and massage gently to coat the chicken evenly. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours for enhanced flavor.
  3. Grill the Chicken: Heat a grill pan over high heat or preheat an outdoor grill to at least 500°F (260°C). Add the marinated chicken breasts and reduce heat slightly to medium-high. Cook until the chicken releases easily from the grill and nice char marks form, about 4-5 minutes per side. If using a grill pan, spoon a little additional marinade over the chicken when flipped, then lower heat slightly to prevent burning. Continue grilling until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C). Transfer to a plate and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  4. Cook Cauliflower Rice: Heat a drizzle (about 1 tablespoon) of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the frozen cauliflower rice and season with garlic salt, black pepper, and a pinch of dried oregano. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the cauliflower is tender and heated through. Finish by squeezing fresh lemon juice over it and stirring to combine.
  5. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked cauliflower rice among four bowls. Top each bowl with sliced grilled chicken, chopped cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, halved tomatoes, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, a dollop of tzatziki sauce, and sprinkle with fresh herbs such as dill or parsley. Drizzle additional Greek dressing over the top before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken for longer if time allows to boost the flavor, up to 4 hours.
  • Frozen cauliflower rice can be substituted with fresh grated cauliflower for a fresher texture.
  • Adjust garlic salt and pepper in the cauliflower rice to taste; you can add fresh garlic for stronger flavor if preferred.
  • Use fresh herbs like dill or parsley to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.
  • Make sure to let the grilled chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
  • For a dairy-free version, omit the feta and tzatziki or substitute with dairy-free alternatives.
  • The Greek dressing also works well as a salad dressing or marinade for other proteins.

Keywords: low carb chicken bowl, Greek chicken bowl, grilled chicken recipe, cauliflower rice bowl, Mediterranean chicken bowl, healthy low carb meal

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