Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bowls

Craving something fresh, flavorful, and super satisfying? Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bowls are your answer. Tender, juicy chicken marinated in fragrant spices, paired with fluffy rice, fresh veggies, and topped with the most creamy, tangy tzatziki sauce—it’s a bite of sunshine in every spoonful. The best part? You can have this healthy, vibrant meal ready in less than 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a meal prep option for busy weeks. Trust me, these bowls will be on repeat!

Let’s dive in and get cooking—you’re going to love how this comes together!

Why You’ll Love Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bowls

Quick and Easy

These bowls come together in a flash. Marinate the chicken, cook it, assemble the bowls, and you’re done! They’re perfect for busy nights when you still want something fresh and exciting.

Fresh and Flavorful

The chicken is seasoned with bold, Mediterranean-inspired spices that pair perfectly with the cool, creamy tzatziki sauce. The crunchy veggies and soft rice make this meal feel well-rounded and satisfying.

Meal Prep Friendly

These bowls store well and can be prepped ahead of time, making them a great option for lunch or dinner all week long.

Healthy and Nourishing

Packed with lean protein, whole grains, and lots of fresh veggies, these bowls are both wholesome and filling. They’re a great way to fuel your day without feeling sluggish.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these fresh and vibrant bowls:

For the Chicken:

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. You can also use thighs if you prefer.
• Olive oil: Helps the chicken cook up nice and juicy.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a savory depth to the marinade.
• Lemon juice: Brings a burst of freshness to the chicken.
• Ground cumin: Adds an earthy, slightly smoky flavor to the chicken.
• Paprika: For a mild smokiness and color.
• Dried oregano: A must-have herb in Mediterranean cuisine for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
• Salt and pepper: To season the chicken and bring out all the flavors.

For the Rice Bowls:

• Cooked rice: You can use white, brown, or even jasmine rice. Quinoa also works if you’re looking for something gluten-free.
• Cucumber: Thinly sliced for a refreshing crunch.
• Tomato: Chopped into bite-sized pieces for a juicy, sweet bite.
• Red onion: Thinly sliced, for a bit of tang and color.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped, for a fresh and vibrant garnish.
• Feta cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy, salty kick that pairs perfectly with the chicken and tzatziki.

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• Greek yogurt: The base for this creamy and tangy sauce.
• Cucumber: Grated for a fresh, juicy texture.
• Garlic: Minced for an extra flavor boost.
• Lemon juice: Adds brightness and balance to the sauce.
• Fresh dill: A key ingredient that adds that classic tzatziki flavor.
• Olive oil: For a bit of richness.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to dive in? Let’s get this meal on the table!

Marinate the Chicken:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix.
2. Coat the Chicken: Rub the marinade all over the chicken breasts. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge if you have the time).

Cook the Chicken:

3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil to the pan, then cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.

Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:

4. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Assemble the Bowls:

5. Prepare the Rice and Veggies: Cook the rice according to package instructions. While the rice is cooking, chop the cucumber, tomato, red onion, and parsley. Set everything aside.
6. Assemble: In each bowl, add a scoop of rice, then layer with sliced chicken, cucumber, tomato, red onion, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. Drizzle generously with tzatziki sauce and garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories (depending on the type of rice used and the amount of tzatziki sauce)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes (or longer if marinating the chicken) Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes

How to Serve Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bowls

These bowls are perfect as a standalone meal, but here are a few serving suggestions to take them to the next level:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would add a refreshing crunch alongside the rice bowls.
• Pita Bread: Serve with warm pita bread or naan for scooping up all that delicious tzatziki sauce.
• Roasted Veggies: Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant would be a great addition to these bowls if you’re craving more veggies.

Additional Tips

• Chicken Variations: If you don’t have chicken breasts, you can easily swap in chicken thighs or even ground chicken.
• Rice Options: You can use quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
• Make Ahead: The chicken can be marinated the night before, and the tzatziki sauce can be prepared in advance too. Just store everything separately in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble.
• Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Add olives, pickled red onions, or a sprinkle of za’atar seasoning for an extra flavor boost.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

A1: Yes! Chicken thighs will work perfectly. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may need a little extra time to cook through.

Q2: How can I make this dish dairy-free?

A2: You can substitute the Greek yogurt in the tzatziki sauce with a dairy-free yogurt alternative like coconut or almond yogurt.

Q3: Can I use a grill instead of a skillet?

A3: Absolutely! Grilling the chicken will give it a smoky flavor, just make sure to cook it on medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side.

Q4: Can I prepare this ahead of time?

A4: Yes! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, prepare the tzatziki sauce, and cook the rice in advance. When you’re ready to eat, just assemble the bowls and enjoy!

Q5: Can I add more veggies to the bowl?

A5: Absolutely! Feel free to add roasted vegetables, avocado, or even some leafy greens like spinach or arugula for added freshness.

Q6: Can I use another type of rice?

A6: Yes! Brown rice, quinoa, or even couscous would work well in these bowls.

Q7: How long will the leftovers keep?

A7: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Just keep the tzatziki sauce separate to avoid it getting watery.

Q8: Can I make this dish gluten-free?

A8: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use a gluten-free yogurt for the tzatziki sauce and ensure that your rice is gluten-free.

Q9: How do I make the tzatziki sauce spicier?

A9: To add a little heat, you can add some finely chopped jalapeño, red pepper flakes, or a pinch of cayenne to the tzatziki sauce.

Q10: Can I double the recipe for more servings?

A10: Definitely! Just double the ingredients as needed, and you’ll have plenty for a larger crowd or leftovers for the next day.

Conclusion

These Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bowls are a quick, healthy, and totally satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. The combination of tender, spiced chicken, fluffy rice, fresh veggies, and creamy tzatziki sauce makes for a winning bowl every time. With just 30 minutes, you’ll have a meal that’s bursting with flavor and sure to become a staple in your kitchen! Enjoy!

Print