Chicken Stack from Zoes Kitchen features tender grilled chicken layered with creamy hummus, fresh cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese, all served atop a warm bed of seasoned rice for a flavorful and wholesome meal.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Saucepan or rice cooker
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Serving plates or bowls
- Tongs
- Spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cooked basmati or long-grain rice
- 1 cup hummus
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup diced tomato
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Ensure you use boneless, skinless chicken breast for tender grilling, and choose basmati or long-grain rice to replicate the authentic texture and flavor of the Chicken Stack from Zoes Kitchen. Fresh ingredients like diced cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and chopped parsley are essential to maintain the dish's vibrant profile, while feta cheese adds a salty, creamy contrast. Proper seasoning with oregano, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper enhances the savory complexity of the chicken. Olive oil helps keep the chicken moist during cooking, and fresh lemon juice brightens the overall taste. Your copycat Chicken Stack from Zoes Kitchen will shine by prioritizing these quality ingredients and careful layering.
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add chicken breasts to the bowl and coat evenly with the seasoning mixture.
- Grill chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and with grill marks.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest for a few minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook rice in a saucepan or rice cooker, if not already cooked.
- Dice cucumbers and tomatoes on a cutting board using a chef’s knife.
- In a small bowl, toss diced cucumbers and tomatoes with lemon juice and chopped parsley.
- Slice the grilled chicken into strips.
- To assemble, spoon a portion of rice onto each serving plate or bowl.
- Spread a layer of hummus on top of the rice.
- Arrange sliced grilled chicken over the hummus.
- Scatter the cucumber and tomato mixture over the chicken.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Chicken Stack from Zoes Kitchen copycat menu can be easily adapted based on available ingredients in your kitchen. If boneless, skinless chicken breast is unavailable, use chicken thighs for a juicier texture without sacrificing flavor. Substitute basmati or long-grain rice with quinoa or couscous for a different grain option that still pairs well with hummus and fresh vegetables. When fresh parsley is not on hand, dried oregano or mint can provide a complementary herbaceous note. Your choice of feta cheese can be replaced by goat cheese or ricotta for a milder, creamy finish to the dish.
Tips
Ensure your grill or grill pan is properly preheated to medium-high to achieve perfect grill marks and thorough cooking of the chicken breast. Allow the chicken to rest after grilling; this helps retain juices, making the meat tender and flavorful. Use basmati or long-grain rice for the best texture and fluffiness as a base for the stack. When chopping cucumbers and tomatoes, keep sizes uniform for consistent bites and evenly distribute the fresh parsley and lemon juice to enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish.
Nutritions
The Chicken Stack from Zoe's Kitchen provides a balanced combination of lean protein from grilled chicken breast and fiber-rich carbohydrates from basmati rice, supporting muscle repair and sustained energy levels. Hummus adds plant-based protein and heart-healthy fats from olive oil, while cucumbers and tomatoes contribute essential vitamins and antioxidants for immune system support. Feta cheese supplies calcium and Vitamin B12, promoting bone health and nerve function. This meal offers you a nutrient-dense option that combines wholesome ingredients for a satisfying and flavorful dining experience.
Storage
Store leftover Chicken Stack in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent contamination. Keep the grilled chicken, seasoned rice, hummus, cucumber and tomato mixture, and feta cheese layered separately if possible, to preserve texture and flavors. Consume your stored meal within 3 days for optimal taste and food safety.
Variation or Alternatives
Instead of grilled chicken breast, you can use grilled chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful protein option. Swap the basmati or long-grain rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different texture or a low-carb alternative. You might also experiment with flavored hummus varieties like roasted red pepper or garlic to enhance the dish's taste profile. When preparing the cucumber and tomato salad, incorporate fresh mint or basil to add a refreshing herbal note to your meal.
Allergies
The Chicken Stack from Zoes Kitchen contains common allergens such as dairy from the feta cheese and sesame seeds potentially present in the hummus. You should be cautious if you have allergies to any of these ingredients, as they can trigger allergic reactions. The dish also contains garlic and spices, which may cause sensitivities for some individuals.
Why this recipe?
The Chicken Stack from Zoe's Kitchen combines layers of tender grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful sauces that create a perfectly balanced meal packed with protein and taste. Its unique blend of Mediterranean spices and high-quality ingredients ensures a satisfying and wholesome dining experience that appeals to health-conscious consumers. By making a copycat version at home, you can customize the flavors to your preference while saving money and enjoying a fresh, homemade alternative. Your kitchen becomes a place where you recreate this delicious dish with control over ingredient quality and portion size.