Greek Chicken Salad Bowls are fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor. You’ll find juicy grilled chicken, crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, creamy feta cheese, and briny olives all coming together over a bed of crunchy lettuce. The whole bowl is often finished with a bright lemony dressing that ties all the ingredients together perfectly.
I love making these bowls when I want a meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. The chicken adds just the right amount of protein, and the veggies bring a nice crunch that keeps every bite interesting. Plus, feta cheese always adds that little zing that makes the salad feel special. I usually make extra dressing because it’s so good drizzled on everything — sometimes even as a dip for pita bread!
These bowls are great for lunch or a light dinner, especially on warm days when I want something cool and easy. I like serving them with some warm pita or a side of hummus to make the meal a bit heartier. It’s one of those dishes that feels comforting and fresh at the same time, and my friends always ask me to make it whenever they come over.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless works best for quick grilling and easy slicing. You can swap for chicken thighs if you want juicier meat, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
Olive Oil: Use good quality olive oil for both cooking and dressing to add a fresh, fruity flavor. If you’re out, avocado or light vegetable oil can work in a pinch.
Dried Oregano & Spices: Oregano gives the salad a classic Greek flavor. If you don’t have dried, fresh oregano can be chopped and added to the dressing. Smoked paprika adds warmth—regular paprika works if needed.
Couscous or Cauliflower Rice: Couscous adds a nice, fluffy base, but cauliflower rice is great for a low-carb option. Quinoa or cooked bulgur are tasty alternatives too.
Vegetables & Feta: Fresh cucumber, tomatoes, olives, red onion, and feta are crucial for texture and bright flavor. For dairy-free, try a sprinkle of toasted nuts instead of feta.
How Can I Grill Chicken Perfectly for This Salad?
Getting juicy, flavorful grilled chicken is key here. Follow these tips:
- Preheat your grill or pan to medium-high for good searing.
- Coat chicken evenly with the spice and olive oil mixture so it absorbs flavor.
- Grill chicken for about 5-6 minutes each side without moving it to get nice grill marks.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F/74°C) or cut to check no pink remains.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy, then slice thinly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – I like using a grill for those nice char marks and extra flavor.
- Mixing bowls – perfect for preparing dressings and assembling salads.
- Whisk – makes quick work mixing the lemon and herb dressing.
- Sharp knife – essential for slicing chicken, vegetables, and herbs cleanly.
- Cutting board – provides a safe surface for preparing all ingredients.
- Meat thermometer (optional) – helps ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked and juicy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for grilled shrimp or lamb for a different protein and flavor profile.
- Add chopped fresh mint or basil instead of parsley for a different herbal note.
- Mix in sliced bell peppers or roasted eggplant for more veggies and texture.
- Use goat cheese or crumbly queso fresco instead of feta for a milder or creamier taste.
Greek Chicken Salad Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for chicken)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cooked couscous or cauliflower rice (optional base)
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced or diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup kalamata olives, pitted
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for dressing)
- 1 tsp dried oregano (for dressing)
- Salt and pepper to taste (for dressing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep and cooking time. Grilling the chicken and assembling the salad comes together quickly, so you can enjoy a fresh and tasty meal in under 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Grill the Chicken:
First, preheat your grill or grill pan on medium-high heat. In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp olive oil with dried oregano, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mix all over the chicken breasts. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until cooked through and nicely charred. Once done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
2. Make the Dressing:
While the chicken rests, prepare your dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, a pinch of salt, and some pepper. This bright lemon-oregano dressing will bring all the flavors together.
3. Assemble the Salad Bowls:
In each serving bowl, arrange a bed of cooked couscous or cauliflower rice, if you like. Add the cucumber slices, halved cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and thinly sliced red onion. Lay the sliced grilled chicken on top, then sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over everything. Drizzle the lemon-oregano dressing over the salad, and finish with fresh parsley for a lovely garnish if you wish. Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh, flavorful Greek Chicken Salad Bowls!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw it in the fridge overnight before grilling. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better searing and seasoning adherence.
Can I Prepare the Salad Bowls Ahead of Time?
You can grill the chicken and make the dressing a day ahead. Store chicken sliced in an airtight container in the fridge. Assemble the bowls just before serving to keep vegetables fresh and crisp.
What’s a Good Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu or toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for a nice texture and flavor boost without the cheese.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add fresh lemon juice or extra dressing before serving to refresh the flavors.
