Low-Carb Greek Chicken Bowls
These vibrant Low-Carb Greek Chicken Bowls deliver Mediterranean flavors without the carbs! Featuring herb-marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, briny olives, tangy feta, and homemade tzatziki, they're ready in just 30 minutes and perfect for healthy meal prep.
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine Mediterranean
Grill pan or skillet
Cutting board
Mixing bowls
For the Greek Chicken
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat for the creamiest results)
- 1/2 cucumber, seeded and finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Bowls
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh herbs (dill, mint, or parsley) for garnish
Optional Add-ins (still low-carb)
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds
- Artichoke hearts
- Roasted red peppers
- Marinated mushrooms
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, paprika, and lemon zest.
Add chicken breasts to the marinade and turn to coat completely.
Marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or if you have time, refrigerate for up to 4 hours. (Even a quick 15-minute marinade makes a big difference!)
Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible – this prevents watery tzatziki!
In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, drained cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill, olive oil, and salt.
Stir well to combine, then refrigerate until ready to use. The sauce actually improves if it sits for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard remaining marinade.
Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the outside has nice grill marks or browning.
Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes – this keeps the juices inside the meat.
Slice the chicken against the grain into strips.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Divide the chopped romaine among four bowls, creating a base layer.
Arrange the sliced chicken and all your fresh vegetables (cucumber, tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion) in sections around the bowl.
Add olives, feta cheese, and avocado slices to each bowl.
Top each bowl with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce.
Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges.
For a final touch of flavor, drizzle with a little extra olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano if desired.
- Chicken options: Boneless thighs work beautifully as an alternative to breasts, offering more flavor and moisture. Just adjust cooking time as needed (typically a bit longer).
- Make ahead magic: All components can be prepped ahead and stored separately in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making this perfect for meal prep. Just assemble when ready to eat!
- Tzatziki tip: The sauce will keep for up to 4 days in the refrigerator, and actually improves after the first day as flavors develop.
- Serving suggestion: For family members who aren't low-carb, you can add a side of pita bread or cooked orzo pasta without changing your bowl.
- Temperature tip: This bowl is delicious with warm chicken, but works equally well with cold chicken for a refreshing summer meal or meal prep option.