🫶Gluten-Free Greek Chicken & Quinoa Bowls🫶
Prep time: 20 mins | Cook time: 15 mins | Servings: 2-4
Ingredients
The Base (Gluten-Free)
• 1 cup Quinoa: (Use white or tri-color). Rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove bitterness.
• 2 cups Chicken Broth or Water: Ensure the broth is labeled gluten-free.
The Chicken
• 1 lb (450g) Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless.
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil.
• 1 tbsp Lemon Juice.
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano.
• ½ tsp Garlic Powder.
• Salt & Black Pepper: To taste.
The Tzatziki Sauce (Drizzle)
• ½ cup Plain Greek Yogurt: Full fat or 2% works best.
• ¼ cup Cucumber: Grated and squeezed dry (crucial step to avoid watery sauce).
• 1 tbsp Fresh Dill: Chopped.
• 1 tsp Lemon Juice.
• 1 clove Garlic: Minced.
The Toppings (As seen in photo)
• Cucumber: Sliced into rounds.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved.
• Kalamata Olives: Pitted.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled.
Instructions
1. Cook the Quinoa
• Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water until the water runs clear.
• Combine quinoa and broth/water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes.
• Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
2. Marinate & Cook the Chicken
• In a bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Toss the chicken in the marinade. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes (while the quinoa cooks).
• To Grill/Pan-Sear: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Make the Tzatziki
• While the chicken cooks, mix the Greek yogurt, squeezed grated cucumber, fresh dill, lemon juice, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Add a pinch of salt to taste.
4. Assemble the Bowl
• Scoop a generous portion of fluffy quinoa into the center of the plate.
• Arrange the sliced chicken, cucumber rounds, tomatoes, olives, and feta in distinct sections around the quinoa (as shown in your image).
• Drizzle the Tzatziki sauce generously over the chicken and grain. Garnish with a sprig of extra dill if you have it.
Chef’s Note for Gluten-Free Safety
While these ingredients are naturally gluten-free, always double-check the labels on chicken broth and spices/seasoning blends, as some brands use wheat-based anti-caking agents or fillers.
I’ve found this gluten-free Greek chicken and quinoa bowl recipe to be an excellent go-to meal when I want something both healthy and satisfying. Quinoa is such a versatile grain, and using chicken broth instead of water really amps up the flavor while keeping it gluten-free. A tip that works well for me is thoroughly rinsing quinoa before cooking; it makes a noticeable difference in taste, removing any bitterness. Marinating the chicken for 10-15 minutes is essential to let the flavors soak in, and pan-searing it yields a beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside juicy. I like to use an instant-read thermometer to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F without overcooking. Making the tzatziki sauce fresh is a game changer—grating and squeezing the cucumber dry avoids a watery sauce, giving it that perfect creamy consistency with refreshing dill and lemon notes. The toppings like cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta not only add vibrant color but also deliver a balance of salty and tangy flavors that pair wonderfully with the chicken and quinoa base. If you’re preparing this for a gluten-free diet, the chef’s advice about carefully checking labels on broth and seasoning blends cannot be overstated. Some pre-packaged broths or spice mixes may contain hidden gluten additives, so opting for certified gluten-free products guarantees safety. Overall, this recipe is a great way to enjoy Mediterranean flavors with a wholesome gluten-free twist. It’s perfect for a quick weekday dinner or meal prepping in advance. Plus, assembling the bowl with distinct sections of ingredients makes it visually appealing and customizable—ideal for serving family or guests who enjoy choosing their own toppings.