June 18, 2026 · 10 min

Harissa Chicken Bowls with Lemony Bulgur and Creamy Feta Sauce

Lunch10 min4891 cal / serving

This vibrant bowl brings together tender harissa-spiced chicken, a refreshing lemony bulgur salad and a creamy feta sauce for a satisfying meal. The bulgur is tossed with cucumber, tomato, scallions and cilantro, then topped with perfectly cooked chicken cutlets and a drizzle of tangy feta sauce.

It’s a balanced, flavor-packed dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner. The combination of warm spices, fresh herbs and creamy cheese makes every bite delicious.


Recipe details

Lunch10 min4891 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories4891 kcalProtein40 gFat519.2 gCarbs32 gSugar10.9 gFiber3.3 gSodium2177 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: noLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: containsMilk / dairy: containsEgg: not detectedFish: not detectedShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: not detectedSoy: not detectedSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.


Ingredients

Feta Cheese0.5 cup Feta CheeseView ingredient guide
Sour Cream2 tablespoon Sour CreamView ingredient guide
Lemon1 unit LemonView ingredient guide
Mini Cucumber1 unit Mini CucumberView ingredient guide
Harissa Powder1 tablespoon Harissa PowderView ingredient guide
Tomato1 unit TomatoView ingredient guide
Chicken Cutlets10 ounce Chicken CutletsView ingredient guide
Scallions2 unit ScallionsView ingredient guide
Bulgur Wheat0.5 cup Bulgur WheatView ingredient guide
Cilantro0.25 ounce CilantroView ingredient guide
Olive Oil10 teaspoon (tsp) Olive OilView ingredient guide
Black Pepperteaspoon (tsp) Black PepperView ingredient guide
Salt3 teaspoon (tsp) SaltView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine the bulgur wheat with 1 cup of boiling water and a pinch of salt. Cover and let sit for 15 minutes until tender. Drain any excess water if needed.
  2. While the bulgur soaks, prepare the feta sauce: In a small bowl, crumble the feta cheese and mix with sour cream. Zest and juice half the lemon, then add to the feta mixture. Stir until well combined. Season with a pinch of black pepper. Set aside.
  3. Cut the remaining lemon into wedges for serving. Dice the tomato and cucumber into small cubes. Thinly slice the scallions. Roughly chop the cilantro leaves.
  4. Pat the chicken cutlets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper and the harissa powder, rubbing it in evenly.
  5. Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F). Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 2 minutes, then slice against the grain.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked bulgur, diced tomato, cucumber, scallions and most of the cilantro. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice. Toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Divide the bulgur salad between serving bowls. Top with sliced chicken and drizzle with the creamy feta sauce. Garnish with the remaining cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Recipe Tips

For best texture, use fine bulgur wheat and do not overcook; it should be tender but slightly chewy.

If you prefer a milder spice, reduce the harissa powder to 2 teaspoons.

The feta sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.

FAQ

Can I use a different grain instead of bulgur?

Yes, you can substitute bulgur with quinoa, couscous or brown rice. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

How do I store leftovers?

Store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and bulgur before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, bulgur wheat contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, use quinoa or rice and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

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