Name: Instant Pot Greek Chicken Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 large chicken breasts (trimmed and cut into lengthwise strips); 2 lemons (zest and juice); 1 tablespoon Greek seasoning ((check ingredients for gluten-free)); 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1/4 cup chicken stock; 1/2 teaspoon Greek oregano; 1/2 teaspoon fresh-ground black pepper

If you’re searching for a delicious and easy meal that bursts with Mediterranean flavors, look no further than these Instant Pot Greek Chicken Bowls! With tender chicken marinated in zesty lemon and aromatic spices, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, these bowls can be customized to suit your taste and dietary needs. Plus, they’re a great way to enjoy a taste of Greece right at home. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe that will surely become a family favorite!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

There’s so much to love about these Instant Pot Greek Chicken Bowls! Here are just a few highlights:

– **Quick Cooking Time**: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time while ensuring that your chicken stays moist and flavorful.
– **Flavor-Packed**: The combination of lemon, Greek seasoning, and oregano gives these bowls a refreshing and savory taste.
– **Customizable**: You can easily add your favorite toppings or sides, making it perfect for everyone at the table.
– **Meal Prep Friendly**: Prepare a batch ahead of time, and you’ll have delicious lunches or dinners ready to go.

Ingredients at a Glance

To make these Instant Pot Greek Chicken Bowls, gather the following ingredients:

4 large chicken breasts, trimmed and cut into lengthwise strips
Zest and juice of 2 lemons
1 tablespoon Greek seasoning (check ingredients for gluten-free)
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup chicken stock
1/2 teaspoon Greek oregano
1/2 teaspoon fresh-ground black pepper

Essential Tools for Success

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools:

Instant Pot: The star of the show, essential for quick and easy cooking.
Cutting Board: For safely prepping your chicken and other ingredients.
Sharp Knife: A good knife will make cutting your chicken strips a breeze.
Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements are key to flavor.
Mixing Bowl: For marinating the chicken with lemon and spices.

The Method for Instant Pot Greek Chicken Bowls

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to make your Instant Pot Greek Chicken Bowls.

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the zest and juice of 2 lemons, Greek seasoning, olive oil, Greek oregano, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the trimmed chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes—if you have time, marinate for a couple of hours or overnight in the refrigerator for even better flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Once hot, add the marinated chicken strips and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

After sautéing, carefully pour in the chicken stock to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This adds depth to the flavor of your dish.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to pressure cook on high for 8 minutes. Make sure the valve is set to sealing. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes before switching to a quick release.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the pressure has been released, remove the lid and give the chicken a good stir. Serve the chicken strips over a bed of rice or quinoa, and top with your favorite ingredients like fresh vegetables, feta cheese, or tzatziki sauce.

Tailor It to Your Diet

These Instant Pot Greek Chicken Bowls can easily be adjusted to fit various dietary preferences:

Low-Carb/Keto: Serve the chicken over a bed of cauliflower rice instead of traditional grains.
Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with marinated tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based option.
Gluten-Free: Ensure that your Greek seasoning is gluten-free to keep this dish safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Whole30/Paleo: Omit any grains and stick to fresh vegetables and healthy fats for a compliant meal.

Cook’s Notes

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight.
If you prefer a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
This recipe is easily scalable; simply adjust the amount of chicken and ingredients accordingly.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

These Instant Pot Greek Chicken Bowls are perfect for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Quick Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just increase the cooking time to 10-12 minutes, and ensure the chicken is properly thawed before sautéing.

What can I serve with these bowls?

These bowls pair wonderfully with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or even Chicken And Orzo for a heartier meal.

Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before or even cook the entire dish ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.

What are some good toppings for these bowls?

Consider adding diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a drizzle of tzatziki for a refreshing touch!

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to grab your Instant Pot and get cooking! These Instant Pot Greek Chicken Bowls are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a stress-free way to nourish yourself and your loved ones. Enjoy this vibrant dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!