Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my latest obsession: Greek Chicken Orzo Power Bowls! I can’t help but smile every time I whip up this delightful dish. It’s like a party in a bowl—colorful, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Not only is it packed with goodness, but it also has a special place in my heart because it reminds me of summer picnics at the park, where I’d enjoy this bowl while surrounded by friends and laughter.
What I absolutely love about these power bowls is the blend of fresh, vibrant ingredients that leave you feeling nourished and energized. Plus, it’s super forgiving—you can customize it however you like! So grab your apron and let’s dive into this tasty adventure together!
What’s in Greek Chicken Orzo Power Bowls?
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta shape resembles rice, making it a fun base for the dish. I love using it because it captures flavors so well!
Water or Chicken Broth: Using broth instead of water elevates the flavor of the orzo! If you have homemade chicken broth, all the better!
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star protein of the dish! Juicy, tender chicken takes this dish to the next level.
Olive Oil: A staple in Mediterranean cooking, it adds richness and helps season the chicken perfectly. I always reach for extra virgin olive oil for that floral flavor.
Dried Oregano: My favorite herb for that unmistakable Greek aroma. Just a sprinkle goes a long way!
Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential for bringing all the flavors to life!
Cucumber: Fresh, crunchy cucumber adds a lovely coolness to the bowl.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add a burst of flavor in every bite; I can never get enough of them!
Red Onion: The finely chopped red onion gives a nice crunch and a bit of zing—I like it slightly less assertive, so I chop it small!
Feta Cheese: The creamy and tangy crumbles are the cherry on top! I always opt for authentic Greek feta when I can.
Fresh Mint Leaves: For garnish and a hint of freshness, mint makes everything feel just a little bit fancier.
Tzatziki Sauce: The best part! This creamy, garlicky sauce is perfect for dipping or drizzling. You can make it from scratch or grab a jar from the store!
Is Greek Chicken Orzo Power Bowls Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is not just a feast for your taste buds, but it also packs a nutritional punch.
Orzo Pasta: Packed with carbs, it provides the energy you need to power through your day. Just be mindful to enjoy in moderation if you’re watching your carb intake.
Chicken Breasts: A fantastic source of lean protein, chicken helps you feel full while providing essential nutrients for muscle repair and growth.
Cucumber and Cherry Tomatoes: Both loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, they support hydration and offer health benefits like improved digestion and heart health.
Feta Cheese: While it adds delicious flavor, it’s also a source of calcium. Just keep an eye on serving size due to its sodium content!
And let’s not forget the vibrant array of flavors in each bite—it’s a great way to sneak in lots of veggies while enjoying a delightful meal!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water or chicken broth (for cooking orzo)
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
– 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
This recipe serves about 4 hearty portions, perfect for sharing or enjoying leftovers!
How to Make Greek Chicken Orzo Power Bowls?
1. **Cook the Orzo:** In a pot, bring 2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Chicken:** While the orzo is cooking, preheat a grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. **Grill the Chicken:** Place the seasoned chicken on the grill, cooking for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has those fabulous grill marks. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
4. **Assemble the Bowls:** In a large bowl or individual serving bowls, combine the cooked orzo, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped red onion. Toss gently to mix the ingredients together.
5. **Add the Chicken:** Slice the grilled chicken and place it on top of the orzo mixture.
6. **Garnish:** Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top, add fresh mint leaves for garnish, and serve with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce on the side or drizzled on top.
7. **Enjoy:** Serve immediately while warm or chilled as a refreshing summer bowl. Feel free to customize with additional veggies or proteins to suit your mood!
Serving Suggestions and Personal Touches
You know me; I love playing around with my recipes! If you want to make this bowl even heartier, you can add roasted chickpeas, grilled veggies, or swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.
I also recommend serving it with warm pita bread and extra tzatziki on the side—that’s how you really take your Greek feast to the next level!
So there you have it, my friends! A colorful and delicious Greek Chicken Orzo Power Bowl that’s perfect for any day of the week. I’d love for you to try this recipe out and share your thoughts. Did you add a twist of your own? Let me know! Happy cooking!
