Name: Refreshing Mediterranean Lemon-Dill Chicken Bowls
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: For the Chicken: 1 lb chicken breast or thighs; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; For the Bowl: 1 cup quinoa or brown rice, cooked; 1/2 cucumber, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; For the Dressing: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar; Pinch of salt; For Serving: 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce; Optional: Hummus or pita chips

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Mediterranean Lemon-Dill Chicken Bowls are a perfect blend of fresh, vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. The zesty citrus pairs beautifully with the fragrant dill, creating a light yet satisfying meal. Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich grains, and crisp vegetables, this dish is a nutritious option for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s customizable, making it perfect for meal prep or family-friendly dining.

Ingredients

chicken breast or thighs
lemon juice
lemon zest
dill (fresh or dried)
garlic
Greek yogurt
olive oil
cucumber
tomatoes
red onion
feta cheese
kalamata olives
quinoa or brown rice
tsatziki sauce
salt
black pepper
od dried oregano
red wine vinegar
optional toppings like hummus or pita chips

Directions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, dill, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Add the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Prepare the Grain Base: Cook quinoa or brown rice according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Chop the Vegetables: Dice cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with a little olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt.
Assemble the Bowls: In serving bowls, add a layer of quinoa or rice. Arrange sliced chicken, chopped vegetables, crumbled feta, and kalamata olives on top.
Drizzle with Tzatziki: Spoon a generous amount of tzatziki sauce over each bowl.
Serve and Enjoy: Optionally, add hummus or serve with pita chips on the side.

Variations

Protein Swap: Use shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas instead of chicken.
Grain Alternatives: Substitute quinoa or rice with couscous, farro, or cauliflower rice.
Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, spinach, or roasted eggplant for additional nutrients.
Dairy-Free: Omit feta or use a plant-based alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of spicy harissa.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marination Time: 30 minutes (or overnight)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Warm the chicken separately in a skillet or microwave before assembling fresh bowls.
Freezing: Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

Yes, but use less as dried dill has a more concentrated flavor. About 1 teaspoon dried dill equals 1 tablespoon fresh.

What can I use instead of tzatziki sauce?

You can use hummus, tahini dressing, or a lemon-garlic yogurt sauce as an alternative.

Can I meal prep these bowls?

Absolutely! Store components separately and assemble fresh to prevent sogginess.

What’s the best way to grill the chicken?

Use medium-high heat and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Can I use store-bought tzatziki?

Yes, store-bought tzatziki works great if you’re short on time.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice.

How can I make it vegetarian?

Substitute the chicken with grilled tofu, chickpeas, or a plant-based protein.

Can I serve this cold?

Yes, this dish tastes great both warm and cold, making it perfect for summer meals or meal prep.

What other cheeses work besides feta?

Goat cheese or ricotta salata are excellent substitutes for feta.

How can I add more flavor to the grains?

Cook them in vegetable or chicken broth and season with a pinch of garlic powder and lemon zest.

Conclusion

Refreshing and packed with bold Mediterranean flavors, these Lemon-Dill Chicken Bowls are a perfect combination of health and taste. Whether you’re looking for an easy meal prep option, a light yet filling dinner, or a crowd-pleaser for family meals, this dish has it all. Try it today and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean in every bite!

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