Green Goddess Bowl

If you’re looking for a fresh and vibrant meal that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl, the Green Goddess Bowl is exactly what you need! This dish is not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients. It brings together grilled chicken, creamy green goddess dressing, and an array of colorful toppings that make it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Every bite feels special, and I promise it will become a new favorite in your home.

I love how versatile this Green Goddess Bowl is. You can customize it to suit your taste or use whatever you have on hand. Whether you’re prepping for a quick dinner or serving up something impressive for guests, this recipe has got you covered!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in about an hour, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Fresh Flavors: With bright herbs and zesty dressing, every bite bursts with flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy assembling their own bowls with their favorite toppings.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra components ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Customizable: Switch out ingredients based on what you have or prefer—there’s no wrong way to build your bowl!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this Green Goddess Bowl is simple with these wholesome ingredients. You’ll find everything you need right here to whip up something fabulous!

For the Marinade

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (or avocado oil)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari or coconut aminos)
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest, minced
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Dressing

• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup fresh chives
• 1/4 cup fresh tarragon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Bowl Assembly

• 2 cups rice of your choice, cooked
• feta cheese, crumbled
• fresh dill, chopped
• 1 avocado, sliced
• green onions, sliced
• quick pickled onions

Variations

The beauty of the Green Goddess Bowl is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what’s in your fridge.

• Swap the protein: Try grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist!
• Change the grains: Use quinoa or farro instead of rice for added texture and flavor.
• Add seasonal veggies: Toss in some roasted sweet potatoes or steamed broccoli for extra nutrition.
• Make it vegan: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas and use a plant-based mayo to create a vegan-friendly version!

How to Make Green Goddess Bowl

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Put olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon zest in a bowl. Whisk these ingredients together to create a flavorful marinade. This step is crucial because marinating the chicken enhances its juiciness and infuses it with all those wonderful flavors! Let the chicken sit in this mixture for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Blend the Dressing

While your chicken marinates, it’s time to make that creamy green goddess dressing! Add mayonnaise, sour cream, parsley, chives, tarragon, lemon juice, olive oil, rice vinegar, anchovy paste (if using), garlic, salt, and pepper into a food processor. Blend until everything is combined but still retains some texture from the herbs. This dressing adds such vibrant freshness to your bowl—it’s truly the star of the show!

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Heat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400 degrees F). Place the marinated chicken directly on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until nicely charred. Then move it off direct heat to finish cooking through—this ensures it stays tender without drying out. Once done (internal temperature should reach 160 degrees F), let it rest before cutting into cubes.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

Now comes the fun part! Divide cooked rice between two bowls and top each with grilled chicken cubes. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and fresh dill. Add slices of avocado and green onions along with quick-pickled onions for that delightful crunch. Finally, drizzle as much green goddess dressing as you like on top! Enjoy each delicious bite of your homemade Green Goddess Bowl!

Pro Tips for Making Green Goddess Bowl

Creating the perfect Green Goddess Bowl is all about balance and flavor, so here are some pro tips to elevate your dish!

• Marinate Longer: If you have the time, marinating the chicken for a few hours or even overnight will infuse more flavor into the meat, making it juicier and more delicious.

• Customize Your Greens: Feel free to mix up the herbs in the dressing! Adding basil or cilantro can introduce new layers of flavor that keep your bowl exciting every time you make it.

• Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165 degrees F. This technique prevents overcooking, ensuring your chicken stays tender and moist.

• Add Texture: For extra crunch, consider topping your bowl with toasted nuts or seeds. They add great texture and a nutty flavor that complements the creamy dressing beautifully.

• Make It a Meal Prep Hero: Prepare extra rice and veggies in advance to whip up this dish quickly throughout the week. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy healthy meals without much effort!

How to Serve Green Goddess Bowl

Serving your Green Goddess Bowl is all about presentation and complementing flavors. Here are some delightful ideas to make your dish as appealing as it is tasty!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle additional chopped parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: A dash of heat can elevate the flavors, especially if you enjoy a little spice in your meals.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for those who love an extra zing of citrus over their bowls.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini add both color and nutrition, making your meal even more wholesome.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber can add a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy dressing.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks make for a comforting side that contrasts nicely with the fresh ingredients in your bowl.
• Cucumber Salad: A simple salad with sliced cucumbers, onions, and a light vinaigrette provides a crisp texture that’s perfect alongside the richness of the Green Goddess Bowl.

Now you’re all set to enjoy a wonderfully vibrant meal! Whether it’s for dinner or meal prep, this Green Goddess Bowl is sure to delight. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Green Goddess Bowl is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal throughout the week. You can easily prepare components in advance, making it simple to assemble when you’re ready to eat.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover components separately in airtight containers.
• The grilled chicken can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• The Green Goddess Dressing stays fresh for about a week in the fridge.
• Keep rice stored properly to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

• While it’s best to consume this dish fresh, you can freeze the grilled chicken separately.
• Wrap portions of cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Consume frozen chicken within 1-2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel; heat until warmed through (about 1-2 minutes).
• If reheating rice, add a splash of water and cover before microwaving to keep it moist.

FAQs

If you have any questions about making your own Green Goddess Bowl, you’re in the right place!

Can I make this Green Goddess Bowl vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute grilled chicken with roasted chickpeas or tofu for a delightful vegetarian option.

What is the best way to store my Green Goddess Bowl?

Store each component separately in airtight containers. This keeps everything fresh and allows you to mix and match as desired.

How long does the Green Goddess Dressing last?

The Green Goddess Dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good stir before using!

Can I use other grains instead of rice?

Yes! Quinoa, farro, or even cauliflower rice are great alternatives that will work well with this bowl.

What toppings can I add to my Green Goddess Bowl?

Feel free to get creative! Additional toppings like cherry tomatoes, roasted vegetables, or nuts can add extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

The Green Goddess Bowl is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with fresh flavors and vibrant colors that nourish both body and soul. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do! It’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping for your lunches. Don’t hesitate to share your own twists on this recipe—I would love to hear about your creations. Enjoy every bite!