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Mediterranean Chicken Bowls

These Mediterranean Chicken Bowls are packed with protein and fresh flavors, making them a perfect solution for nutritious and satisfying meals.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Rice
  • 2 cups long grain rice Rinse to remove excess starch.
  • 3.5 cups water Boil before adding the rice.
  • 2 tablespoons butter Can substitute with olive oil.
  • 2 teaspoons salt Adjust based on dietary needs.
For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier option.
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice Freshly squeezed is best.
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil Use extra-virgin for extra flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped Dried parsley can be used if needed.
  • 3 cloves garlic, crushed Adjust based on preference.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Smoked paprika works well too.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano Fresh oregano can replace for lively flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper Black pepper can be swapped for lemon pepper.
For the Hummus
  • 1 cup chickpeas, drained Canned is convenient but dried may enhance texture.
  • 2 cloves garlic Finely minced for best flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances flavor.
  • 1/4 cup tahini Can replace with Greek yogurt.
  • 1 lemon juiced About 3 tablespoons of juice.
  • 1 tablespoon water Or liquid from chickpeas.
For the Salad
  • 1 head romaine lettuce Torn into bite-size pieces.
  • 2 pieces tomatoes Cored, seeded, and diced.
  • 1 English cucumber medium, diced Persian cucumbers can be used.
  • 1 cup kalamata olives Pitted and halved.
  • 1/2 red onion medium, thinly sliced Soaking in cold water can mellow flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil High-quality makes a difference.
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice Freshly squeezed, adjust as needed.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh oregano leaves Use 1/2 teaspoon dried if needed.
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt Adjust seasoning as needed.
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled Can substitute goat cheese.

Method
 

Preparation of Rice
  1. Wash rice under cold water for 2-5 minutes until clear; soak for 5 minutes. Boil water in a saucepan, add rice, and simmer for 10 minutes until soft. Add butter, cover, and set aside.
Cooking the Chicken
  1. Combine lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, garlic, paprika, and oregano in a bag. Coat chicken with marinade, refrigerate for 20 minutes or longer, then grill for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked.
Making the Hummus
  1. Minced garlic in the food processor, then add remaining hummus ingredients and blend until coarsely pureed. Refrigerate until serving.
Preparing the Salad
  1. In a bowl, combine lettuce with tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and onion. Whisk dressing ingredients together and pour over salad, tossing to combine. Sprinkle feta cheese on top and serve.

Notes

Overcooking rice can lead to mushiness; monitor closely. Serve family-style for customization.