Greek Chicken Bowls with Toasted Pearl Couscous Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that’s vibrant, healthy, and absolutely bursting with Mediterranean flavor, you’ll fall head-over-heels for these Greek Chicken Bowls with Toasted Pearl Couscous. Succulent spiced chicken skewers, fluffy couscous with fresh mint and crispy shallots, homemade tzatziki, and all your favorite toppings come together in one irresistible bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in these Greek Chicken Bowls with Toasted Pearl Couscous brings something special, from the aromatic chicken marinade to the cooling tzatziki and bright pops of fresh herbs. Don’t let the list intimidate you—these are simple staples that turn ordinary chicken and couscous into an unforgettable meal!

• Chicken breasts: Lean, hearty, and perfect for soaking up that signature Greek marinade.
• Full-fat Greek yogurt: Used for both the chicken marinade and tzatziki, it creates luscious texture and classic tang.
• Olive oil: Brings richness to the marinade while helping the chicken stay juicy on the grill (or in the oven).
• Lemon juice: Adds a burst of acidity, balancing out all those savory spices with freshness.
• Garlic: Essential for bold Mediterranean flavor—use it generously!
• Oregano, smoked paprika, turmeric, cumin, cayenne, and kosher salt: Together, this magical spice blend infuses the chicken with warmth and depth.
• Pearl couscous: Hearty and pleasingly chewy, it toasts up beautifully for that nutty, golden flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Helps crisp up the shallots and garlic, adding richness to the couscous base.
• Shallot and additional garlic: Sautéed until golden, these bring subtle sweetness and savory aromatics to the couscous.
• Vegetable stock (or water): Cooks the couscous, making every grain flavorful.
• Fresh mint: Sprinkled into both the couscous and the tzatziki for an herby lift.
• Cucumber: For grating into the tzatziki; gives it that signature crunch and extra-fresh bite.
• Dill (optional): Try it in the tzatziki for another classic Greek herb note.
• Salt & pepper: Don’t forget to season every component to taste!
• Crumbled feta, tomato cucumber salad, crispy chickpeas, hummus, pita or naan, arugula: All the fun toppings—pick your favorites for maximum bowl-building joy.

Variations

One of my favorite things about Greek Chicken Bowls with Toasted Pearl Couscous is how easily you can adapt them to suit your mood or pantry. Feel free to play around with proteins, grains, or toppings to create your dream Mediterranean bowl!

• Try a different protein: Swap the chicken for shrimp, salmon, or even tofu—just adjust marinade/cooking times as needed.
• Go gluten free: Use cooked quinoa or rice in place of the pearl couscous to keep things celiac-friendly.
• Switch up the herbs: Parsley or basil work beautifully if you’re out of mint or dill, and bring their own fresh notes.
• Add more veggies: Roasted eggplant, bell peppers, or kalamata olives bring extra color and flavor for an even heartier bowl.

How to Make Greek Chicken Bowls with Toasted Pearl Couscous

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices until smooth and fragrant—don’t be shy with the seasoning! Toss in your diced chicken breast so every piece is gloriously coated. For best flavor, let it marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or, if you’re planning ahead, overnight is magic).

Step 2: Prep and Cook the Chicken Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers (be sure to soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning) and shake off any excess marinade—but don’t wipe it all away! Grill the chicken at 400–450°F for about 6–8 minutes per side until cooked through with those irresistible charred bits. No grill? No problem! Roast in a hot oven and broil briefly at the end for those toasty edges.

Step 3: Toast and Cook the Pearl Couscous

While the chicken marinates, get your couscous going. Melt butter in a skillet and sauté the shallots and garlic until crispy and golden—this adds major flavor. Remove the crispy bits, toast the couscous itself until it smells nutty, then simmer with vegetable stock, cumin, and salt until fluffy. Stir the crispy shallots and fresh mint in at the end for maximum deliciousness.

Step 4: Make the Tzatziki

Finely grate your cucumber, squeeze out that extra liquid, and mix into Greek yogurt with garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh mint or dill. Season to taste and let it chill in the fridge, so every spoonful is cool, creamy, and packed with flavor.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

Spoon plenty of toasted pearl couscous into each bowl, then top with those juicy chicken skewers, bright tomato cucumber salad, crispy chickpeas, and all your favorite garnishes. Don’t be shy with the tzatziki—a generous dollop ties it all together! Add crumbled feta, a handful of arugula, and serve with warm pita or naan for the perfect finish.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Bowls with Toasted Pearl Couscous

Garnishes

The finishing touches really take these Greek Chicken Bowls with Toasted Pearl Couscous over the top! Sprinkle on plenty of crumbled feta, a shower of fresh mint or dill, an extra swirl of olive oil, and a few slices of lemon. If you want extra crunch, toss in crispy chickpeas or toasted pine nuts—every bite will sing.

Side Dishes

These bowls truly shine all on their own, but if you’re hosting or feeling extra, pair them with warm pita or chewy naan for dipping, a simple tomato-cucumber salad, or a platter of hummus and olives. They’re perfect for sharing and make even a weeknight dinner feel like a festive gathering.

Creative Ways to Present

Lay out the toppings and sauces “bar style” and let everyone customize their own Greek Chicken Bowl with Toasted Pearl Couscous for a fun build-your-own dinner party vibe. For a crowd, assemble mini bowls or layer all the components into a big family-style platter—it’s striking, colorful, and totally irresistible!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

For the freshest results, store each element—chicken, couscous, tzatziki, and toppings—in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Your Greek Chicken Bowls with Toasted Pearl Couscous will stay delicious for up to five days, making them meal-prep superstars for lunches or speedy dinners later in the week.

Freezing

The chicken skewers freeze beautifully—just cool them completely before sealing in a freezer-safe bag for 1-2 months. The couscous can be frozen, too, though you’ll want to skip freezing fresh veggies or tzatziki, as they can get watery. Thaw the frozen components overnight in the fridge before reheating and assembling.

Reheating

To keep everything tasting fresh, gently reheat chicken and couscous in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Add your veggies and tzatziki after reheating so they stay crisp and cool, and you’re all set for a speedy Greek Chicken Bowl with Toasted Pearl Couscous any day of the week!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to add a burst of Mediterranean sunshine to your dinner table, these Greek Chicken Bowls with Toasted Pearl Couscous are truly the way to go. Every bite is satisfying, fresh, and totally customizable—so go ahead and give them a try. I can’t wait for you to taste how fun and flavorful homemade Greek food can be!

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