Mediterranean Ultimate Garlic Chicken Bowl With Sweet Potato Fries & Guac
This Mediterranean-inspired garlic chicken bowl is a vibrant, balanced meal packed with flavor and texture. Juicy grilled chicken, seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, and cumin, pairs perfectly with crispy baked sweet potato fries and a fresh, zesty guacamole. A base of fluffy rice or quinoa makes it hearty enough for a main course, while fresh herbs and lime juice brighten every bite.
Time
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 30–35 minutes
Total: 50–55 minutes
Ingredients
For the Grilled Chicken
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cumin
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1–2 tbsp lime juice (optional)
For the Sweet Potato Fries
2 medium sweet potatoes, cut into fries
1–2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Guacamole / Avocado Salsa
2 ripe avocados, diced or mashed
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tbsp finely chopped red onion
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
1–2 tbsp lime juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Base & Garnish
Cooked jasmine rice, basmati rice, or quinoa
Fresh parsley or extra cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Preheat Oven & Prep Sweet Potato Fries
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Toss the cut sweet potato fries with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
Prepare Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry.
Rub with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with lime juice if using.
Grill on medium-high heat for 6–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, sear in a skillet for 5–6 minutes per side, finishing in the oven for 5 minutes if needed.
Let chicken rest 5 minutes before slicing.
Make the Guacamole / Avocado Salsa
Mash or dice the avocados in a bowl.
Add cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently, taste, and adjust seasoning.
Assemble the Bowls
Place a base of cooked rice or quinoa in each bowl.
Slice the grilled chicken and place on top.
Add a portion of baked sweet potato fries alongside.
Spoon guacamole over the top or serve on the side.
Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cilantro for brightness.
Tips
Even chicken cooking: Pound breasts to even thickness for consistent grilling.
Sweet potato fries: Cut fries uniformly to ensure even baking.
Crispier fries: Soak cut sweet potatoes in water for 20–30 minutes before baking; dry thoroughly.
Seasoning: Taste the guacamole and adjust lime or salt for brightness.
Rest the chicken: Letting it sit 5 minutes after cooking keeps it juicy.
Oven timing: Bake sweet potatoes first if your grill or skillet is small, then cook chicken.
Optional toppings: Add sautéed bell peppers, olives, or pickled red onions for more Mediterranean flavor.
Make ahead: Sweet potatoes can be baked ahead and reheated; chicken can be cooked and sliced in advance.
Serving: Serve immediately for best texture; fries crisp up when fresh.
Grill marks: For an extra touch, cook chicken on a preheated grill pan for charred flavor.
Variations
Spicy: Add chili powder to the chicken rub or diced jalapeño to the guacamole.
Low-carb: Replace rice/quinoa with cauliflower rice.
Cheesy twist: Sprinkle feta or shredded mozzarella over chicken before serving.
Extra greens: Add spinach, arugula, or roasted zucchini to the bowl.
Herb variation: Swap cilantro with parsley or dill.
Mediterranean flavor: Add a drizzle of olive tapenade or roasted red pepper sauce.
Sweet potato swap: Use regular potatoes, parsnips, or carrot fries for variety.
Meal prep: Keep components separate and assemble when ready to eat.
Avocado topping: Blend guacamole smooth for creamier texture.
Protein boost: Add hard-boiled eggs, chickpeas, or grilled halloumi slices.
Q&A
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless thighs are juicier and slightly quicker to cook.
Can I bake chicken instead of grilling?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I make this vegetarian?
Replace chicken with roasted chickpeas, tofu, or halloumi slices.
Can sweet potato fries be frozen?
Yes, bake and cool them, then freeze in a single layer. Reheat in the oven for crispiness.
Can I make guacamole ahead of time?
Yes, but store in an airtight container with lime juice to prevent browning; use within a day.
Can I use brown rice or another grain?
Absolutely. Quinoa, bulgur, or farro also work well.
How spicy is this dish?
Mild by default; add chili or hot paprika for more heat.
Can I make it meal prep friendly?
Yes, store chicken, sweet potato fries, and guacamole separately and assemble when ready.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or corn pair well.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free unless you add cheese as a topping.
Nutrition
(approx. per serving, 4 servings)
Calories: 450–500
Protein: 35 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbs: 40 g
Fiber: 7 g
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Ultimate Garlic Chicken Bowl With Sweet Potato Fries & Guac is a complete, wholesome, and flavorful meal that combines juicy garlic-seasoned chicken, crisp-tender sweet potato fries, and fresh, zesty guacamole over a hearty base of rice or quinoa. Its balanced protein, carbs, and healthy fats make it ideal for a filling lunch, dinner, or meal prep. The flexibility of ingredients allows you to adjust flavors, add vegetables, or swap grains, keeping it fresh and exciting every time. The bright Mediterranean flavors, combined with the satisfying textures, make this bowl a nutrient-packed, delicious dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your weekly rotation.