Mediterranean Spicy Garlic Chicken Bowl with Hummus & Cucumber Salad
This Mediterranean spicy garlic chicken bowl is the kind of meal that feels generous, balanced, and deeply satisfying. Juicy chicken is marinated with olive oil, garlic, warm spices, and a touch of heat, then cooked until lightly charred and full of flavor. It is served over a hearty base and paired with creamy hummus and a crisp cucumber salad that cools everything down. Every component has a role. The chicken brings spice and protein, the hummus adds richness, and the fresh vegetables keep the bowl bright and refreshing. It is ideal for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or anytime you want something nourishing that does not feel boring.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Marinating time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Spicy Garlic Chicken
1½ pounds boneless chicken thighs or breasts, sliced
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon chili flakes or cayenne
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
Cucumber Salad
2 cups diced cucumber
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Additional bowl items:
1½ cups cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous
1 cup hummus
Optional garnish: parsley, olives, feta, olive oil drizzle
Instructions
In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, chili flakes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Add the sliced chicken and toss until evenly coated. Marinate for at least 20 minutes.
While the chicken marinates, prepare the base grain according to package instructions and keep warm.
In a separate bowl, combine diced cucumber, lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. Set aside.
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
Remove chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
To assemble, divide the cooked grain among four bowls.
Add a generous scoop of hummus to each bowl and arrange the chicken alongside.
Top with cucumber salad, garnishes, and an optional drizzle of olive oil.
Tips
Chicken thighs stay juicier, but breasts work well if not overcooked.
Slice chicken evenly for consistent cooking.
Do not overcrowd the pan or the chicken will steam.
Let the pan heat fully before adding chicken for better browning.
Resting the chicken keeps it tender and flavorful.
Season cucumber lightly so it stays crisp.
Use plain hummus so it balances the spice.
Taste and adjust spice levels before cooking.
Keep components separate until serving for best texture.
Add a squeeze of lemon just before eating for brightness.
Variations
Use grilled chicken for a smoky flavor.
Replace rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter bowl.
Add roasted sweet potatoes for sweetness and depth.
Swap hummus for baba ghanoush.
Add cherry tomatoes to the cucumber salad.
Use harissa instead of chili flakes for deeper heat.
Make it dairy-free by skipping feta garnish.
Add pickled red onions for tang.
Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood version.
Serve everything wrapped in warm flatbread instead of a bowl.
Q&A
Can I make this bowl ahead of time?
Yes, store components separately and assemble when ready.
How long does cooked chicken keep?
Up to 3 days refrigerated in an airtight container.
Is this dish very spicy?
It is moderately spicy but easy to adjust.
Can I bake the chicken instead?
Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes.
What hummus works best?
Classic or garlic hummus pairs well.
Can I use store-bought cucumber salad?
Fresh is best, but simple store-bought works.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, if served with rice or quinoa.
What other vegetables can I add?
Roasted peppers, zucchini, or eggplant are great options.
Can kids eat this?
Yes, reduce the chili and serve sauce on the side.
What sauce can I add?
A yogurt tahini or lemon garlic sauce works well.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving)
Calories: 520
Protein: 38 g
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 7 g
Iron: 20 percent daily value
Conclusion
Mediterranean spicy garlic chicken bowls with hummus and cucumber salad offer a complete meal that feels both comforting and fresh. The contrast between warm, spiced chicken and cool, crisp vegetables keeps every bite interesting. It is flexible, easy to customize, and well-suited for busy schedules or relaxed dinners alike. Once you try it, this bowl quickly becomes a reliable favorite, the kind of recipe that fits into real life while still feeling thoughtful and satisfying.