Greek Chicken Orzo Power Bowls are a fresh, flavorful, and wholesome meal packed with protein, veggies, and Mediterranean flair. With tender marinated chicken, al dente orzo pasta, and vibrant toppings like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, this bowl is perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, or weeknight dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Balanced – Packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich veggies.
- Fresh Mediterranean Flavors – Bursting with bright, zesty ingredients like lemon, garlic, and oregano.
- Great for Meal Prep – Stores well and makes delicious leftovers.
- Customizable – Easy to adapt with your favorite ingredients or dietary needs.
- Quick and Easy – Comes together fast with simple steps.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Garlic cloves
- Dried oregano
- Salt and pepper
- Orzo pasta
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber
- Kalamata olives
- Red onion
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley (optional)
- Tzatziki sauce or hummus (for serving)
Directions
- Marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- Grill or pan-cook the chicken until fully cooked and golden brown. Let rest before slicing.
- Chop the cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and olives.
- Assemble bowls with a base of orzo, then top with sliced chicken, chopped veggies, olives, and feta.
- Garnish with parsley and a dollop of tzatziki or hummus if desired.
- Serve warm or chilled.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian – Skip the chicken and add chickpeas or falafel.
- Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free orzo or quinoa instead.
- Spicy Twist – Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a spicy yogurt sauce.
- Extra Greens – Toss in spinach, kale, or arugula.
- Different Protein – Try grilled shrimp, salmon, or lamb.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store assembled bowls or components in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended due to fresh veggies and orzo texture.
- Reheating: Reheat chicken and orzo in the microwave for 1-2 minutes; add fresh toppings after heating.
FAQs
Can I make these bowls ahead of time?
Yes, they’re perfect for meal prep. Store components separately for best freshness.
What can I use instead of orzo?
Quinoa, couscous, or brown rice are great alternatives.
How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Don’t overcook it, and let it rest before slicing to retain juices.
Can I use store-bought tzatziki?
Absolutely! It’s a great time-saver and still delicious.
Is this recipe good for weight loss?
Yes, it’s a balanced, high-protein, and low-calorie meal option.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 30 minutes, but up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
Can I grill the chicken?
Yes, grilled chicken adds great smoky flavor.
What herbs work best in this recipe?
Oregano, parsley, dill, and mint complement the Mediterranean flavors well.
Can I serve this cold?
Definitely. It makes a refreshing cold lunch option.
Are these bowls kid-friendly?
Yes! Let kids build their own bowls with the ingredients they like.
Conclusion
Greek Chicken Orzo Power Bowls are a nourishing and flavor-packed meal that’s as versatile as it is satisfying. With juicy marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy feta, each bite delivers a burst of Mediterranean goodness. Whether you’re prepping lunches for the week or looking for a quick, healthy dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
PrintGreek Chicken Orzo Power Bowls
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 bowls
- Category: Main Dish, Meal Prep
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
These Greek Chicken Orzo Power Bowls are loaded with juicy marinated chicken, tender orzo pasta, fresh veggies, and a punchy lemon-herb vinaigrette. Topped with creamy feta and olives, this bowl has all the bold Mediterranean flavors in one satisfying, protein-packed dish.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
-
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
2 tbsp lemon juice
-
2 garlic cloves, minced
-
1 tsp dried oregano
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bowls:
-
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
-
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
-
1 cup cucumber, diced
-
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
-
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
-
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, halved
-
2 cups fresh baby spinach or arugula
-
Optional: sliced avocado or hummus
For the Dressing:
-
1/4 cup olive oil
-
2 tbsp lemon juice
-
1 tsp red wine vinegar
-
1 tsp Dijon mustard
-
1 tsp dried oregano
-
1 clove garlic, minced
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
-
Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl or zip-top bag, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours in the fridge). -
Cook the Chicken:
Heat a skillet or grill over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F). Let rest, then slice. -
Cook the Orzo:
Cook orzo according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking. Set aside. -
Make the Dressing:
In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. -
Assemble the Bowls:
In each bowl, layer spinach or arugula, orzo, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta. Add sliced chicken and drizzle with dressing. Top with avocado or hummus if desired. -
Serve:
Serve immediately or store in containers for meal prep. Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Notes
-
Use whole wheat orzo for extra fiber.
-
Great for meal prep – just store dressing separately until ready to eat.
-
Can sub in chickpeas or grilled tofu for a vegetarian version.
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