Fresh, vibrant, and packed with Mediterranean flair, these Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowls are everything you love about a traditional Greek salad—with a protein-rich twist. Juicy grilled chicken seasoned with herbs sits on a colorful bed of crisp cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, olives, and a generous dollop of creamy tzatziki. Every bite is a combination of cool, tangy, and savory, making this dish a go-to for a balanced yet bold meal.

Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or simply craving something refreshing and hearty, this bowl delivers both flavor and nutrition. It’s incredibly customizable and comes together with minimal effort, making it ideal for meal prep, weekday dinners, or an effortless lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowl

Low in carbs, high in satisfaction: Skip the pita and grains—this bowl is all about lean proteins and fresh veggies.
Meal prep hero: Prepare components in advance and assemble when ready.
Flavor explosion: With the bold Greek marinade, creamy tzatziki, and juicy veggies, every forkful is exciting.
Quick and easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, and no complex cooking techniques required.
Perfectly balanced: Combines protein, healthy fats, and fiber while keeping carbs in check.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use for Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowls

Creating a flawless Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowl starts with a bit of smart prep and the right kitchen tools. Each component—marinated chicken, chopped veggies, and creamy tzatziki—has its own prep step, but the process is simple with the proper gear.

Essential Tools and Why You Need Them:

Cast Iron Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill: Delivers a charred, smoky finish to the chicken. The high heat sears in juices and creates a delicious crust.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: Needed for dicing cucumbers, onions, tomatoes, and slicing chicken evenly.
Cutting Board: Opt for a large, non-slip board to keep prep neat and efficient.
Mixing Bowls (various sizes): Essential for marinating the chicken, mixing the tzatziki, and tossing vegetables.
Garlic Press or Microplane: Helps you finely grate or crush garlic for the tzatziki and marinade.
Meat Thermometer (optional but useful): Ensures chicken reaches an internal temp of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
Serving Bowl or Meal Prep Containers: A wide, shallow bowl is ideal for beautiful presentation and even distribution of ingredients.

Preparation Tips

Marinate in Advance: For maximum flavor, let the chicken soak in the Greek marinade for at least 30 minutes—overnight if possible.
Pat the Chicken Dry Before Grilling: This helps get that golden-brown crust rather than steaming the meat.
Use English Cucumbers: They have fewer seeds and a crisp texture, perfect for raw salads.
Salt the Cucumbers Lightly: Before mixing into tzatziki or the salad, sprinkle them with a bit of salt and let them sit to draw out moisture—this keeps your bowl from getting watery.
Double the Tzatziki: It goes fast and is perfect as a dip or extra dressing.
Work in Batches: Grill chicken in a single layer for even browning.
Chill the Ingredients Before Serving: Except for the chicken, keep everything cold for a refreshing bite.

Ingredients for This Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowl

This dish combines a handful of wholesome ingredients that bring both flavor and freshness. Most are Mediterranean staples, making them easy to find and naturally low in carbohydrates.

For the Chicken Marinade:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
3 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Bowl:

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
½ red onion, finely chopped
½ cup green or kalamata olives
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

¾ cup plain Greek yogurt (full fat or low fat)
½ cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove moisture
1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or mint
Salt to taste

Optional Add-ons:

Crumbled feta cheese (for extra richness)
A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for finishing
Pickled red onions or banana peppers for tang

These ingredients come together to form a balanced, flavorful, and highly customizable meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended. Add the chicken breasts, turning to coat them fully in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

While the chicken marinates, make the tzatziki. Combine the Greek yogurt, grated and drained cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and chopped dill in a small bowl. Season with salt to taste. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate until ready to use. Chilling enhances the flavor.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and pat lightly with paper towels. Grill for 5–6 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice or dice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is grilling or resting, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion. If using olives with pits, remove them beforehand. Optionally, lightly salt the cucumbers to draw out moisture and enhance their crunch.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

In a large serving bowl or individual meal prep containers, layer the cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and olives. Add the grilled chicken on top. Spoon a generous dollop of tzatziki in the center. Garnish with chopped parsley and a light drizzle of olive oil, if desired.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately while the chicken is warm, or chill for a refreshing cold bowl. Add any optional toppings like feta or pickled vegetables to personalize it.

Notes

Protein Swap: You can easily substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Marinade Versatility: Double the marinade recipe and save half (before adding raw chicken) to use as a dressing or veggie drizzle.
Tzatziki Tip: If you love bold garlic flavor, let the sauce sit longer before serving—it intensifies over time.
Make It a Platter: Turn this bowl into a beautiful grazing platter with pita wedges (if not avoiding carbs), extra olives, and veggie sticks for a party.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the Marinade Time: Rushing the marinade process leads to bland chicken. Even 30 minutes makes a big difference.
Not Drying the Chicken Before Grilling: Moisture on the surface prevents that delicious sear and can make it steam instead of char.
Overcooking the Chicken: Dry chicken ruins the texture. Use a thermometer or keep a close eye on cook time.
Underseasoning the Tzatziki: Taste as you go! A pinch more salt or lemon can really brighten it.
Crowding the Grill Pan: Don’t overcrowd—cook in batches if needed to maintain heat and get good grill marks.
Skipping the Rest Period for Chicken: Letting the chicken rest after cooking seals in juices and makes slicing easier.
Using Watery Yogurt: Always choose thick, strained Greek yogurt or your sauce will end up runny.
Serving Immediately Without Chilling Veggies: A quick chill gives the cucumbers and tomatoes a crisp, refreshing bite.

What to Serve With Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowls?

Although these bowls are satisfying on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes or beverages can elevate the meal into something truly special. Whether you’re serving guests or meal-prepping for the week, consider these flavorful companions.

8 Recommendations

Cauliflower Rice
A perfect low-carb base alternative to grains. Lightly seasoned with lemon and herbs, it soaks up the juices from the chicken and tzatziki beautifully.
Grilled Halloumi
Adds a salty, chewy contrast. Serve it hot alongside or even diced on top of the bowl.
Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)
Choose a low-carb version or serve a few for a Mediterranean touch that complements the olives and herbs.
Lemon Garlic Roasted Vegetables
Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant tossed in olive oil and lemon—ideal for bulking up the meal without extra carbs.
Keto-Friendly Pita Chips
Great for scooping up leftover tzatziki or veggies at the bottom of the bowl.
Pickled Vegetables
Add acidity and crunch—pickled red onions, banana peppers, or radishes pair especially well.
Avocado Slices
For a creamy, buttery addition that balances the tanginess of the tzatziki and lemon marinade.
Sparkling Water with Lemon or Mint
Keep it refreshing with a chilled citrus drink—flavored sparkling water is perfect to cleanse the palate between bites.

Storage Instructions

Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowls are ideal for meal prep, as most components store well individually and can be assembled just before serving.

Chicken: Store grilled chicken slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before adding to your bowl.
Tzatziki Sauce: Keep in a sealed jar or container for 3–4 days. Stir before each use, as natural separation may occur.
Chopped Vegetables: Store tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions separately in containers with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. They’ll stay fresh for 2–3 days.
Assembled Bowls: If already assembled (without warm chicken), store in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Add warm chicken and sauce just before eating for best results.

Freezing Tip: Avoid freezing the tzatziki and fresh vegetables, as they lose their texture. Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months, then thawed and reheated.

Estimated Nutrition (per serving – serves 2)

Nutrient	Approximate Value
Calories	430 kcal
Protein	38g
Carbohydrates	9g
Net Carbs	6g
Fiber	3g
Total Fat	26g
Saturated Fat	6g
Sugar	4g

Note: These values may vary slightly depending on the exact portion sizes and brands used.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate the chicken for best flavor?

At least 30 minutes, but 2–4 hours is ideal. Marinating overnight enhances the depth of flavor, especially with lemon and herbs.

Can I use store-bought tzatziki instead of making my own?

Yes, store-bought tzatziki is a convenient alternative. However, homemade has a fresher taste and allows for more control over ingredients and seasoning.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Absolutely. With high protein, healthy fats, and only about 6g net carbs per serving, it fits perfectly into a keto or low-carb diet.

What if I don’t have a grill or grill pan?

A cast iron skillet or nonstick pan works well. Just ensure it’s hot enough to sear the chicken for that golden, slightly crispy exterior.

Can I prep this bowl ahead of time?

Yes. Store all components separately for best texture, then assemble right before eating. It’s perfect for meal prep up to 3–4 days in advance.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! Use a dairy-free yogurt (like coconut or almond-based) for the tzatziki and skip the feta. The rest of the bowl is naturally dairy-free.

What other proteins can I use besides chicken?

Try grilled shrimp, beef strips, lamb, or tofu for vegetarian/vegan options. The Greek marinade works well with all.

How can I make the bowl spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade, or top the finished bowl with pickled chili peppers or a spicy yogurt drizzle.

Conclusion

Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowls are the kind of meal that proves healthy eating doesn’t have to mean bland or boring. They’re fast, colorful, and loaded with vibrant Mediterranean flavors—making them perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed weekend lunches. Whether you’re meal prepping, following a low-carb lifestyle, or simply love bold, zesty food, this dish is a must-have in your recipe rotation.