Mediterranean Chicken Rice Bowl

This Mediterranean Chicken Rice Bowl is a flavorful and wholesome meal packed with juicy spiced chicken, fluffy basmati rice, crisp veggies, creamy tzatziki sauce, and chickpeas. Perfect for meal prep or a fresh, satisfying dinner, this bowl is a delicious balance of protein, fiber, and bold Mediterranean spices.

🕒 Total Time: 40 minutes

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp lemon juice

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp cumin

1/2 tsp coriander

1/2 tsp oregano

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

1 tbsp Greek yogurt (for tenderness)

For the Rice:

1 cup basmati or jasmine rice

2 cups water or chicken broth

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp cumin (optional for extra flavor)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

1/2 cup Greek yogurt

1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess water

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowl Toppings:

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cucumber, diced

1/4 cup chickpeas (canned, drained, and rinsed)

Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Dash of paprika (for garnish)

Instructions:

Marinate the Chicken:

Mix all the marinade ingredients in a bowl.

Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Cook the Chicken:

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat.

Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F or 75°C).

Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Prepare the Rice:

Rinse the rice until the water runs clear.

In a pot, bring water or broth to a boil.

Add rice, salt, and cumin. Cover and cook on low heat for 12-15 minutes until the rice is fluffy.

Make the Tzatziki Sauce:

In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper.

Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Assemble the Bowl:

Start with a base of rice.

Add sliced grilled chicken.

Arrange cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and chickpeas.

Add a scoop of tzatziki sauce.

Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of paprika.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve immediately with warm pita bread or a side of hummus.

Tips & Variations for Mediterranean Chicken Rice Bowl

Tips for the Best Bowl:

✅ Marinate Longer for More Flavor: Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best for deeper, richer flavors.
✅ Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs elevate the dish’s taste and texture.
✅ Fluffy Rice Trick: Rinse the rice until the water runs clear before cooking to remove excess starch and achieve fluffier rice.
✅ Crispy Chickpeas Option: For extra crunch, roast the chickpeas in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes with a drizzle of olive oil and spices.
✅ Make it a Meal Prep Dish: Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days and assemble when ready to eat.

Recipe Variations:

🌱 Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for grilled halloumi, roasted chickpeas, or falafel.
🍋 Low-Carb Option: Replace rice with cauliflower rice or a bed of leafy greens.
🌶 Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with harissa for extra heat.
🥑 Extra Creaminess: Top with sliced avocado or a spoonful of hummus.
🥙 Turn It into a Wrap: Wrap all the ingredients in a warm pita or flatbread for a handheld meal.