Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bowls Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that brings vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients together in a blissful bite, you’re going to adore this Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bowls Recipe. It’s a beautiful harmony of juicy, marinated chicken paired with fluffy rice, crunchy veggies, creamy feta, and tangy tzatziki that feels like a sunny Mediterranean escape on your plate. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe combines simplicity and freshness perfectly to brighten up any mealtime.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bowls Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list, each chosen to build a balance of textures, colors, and bold flavors. From the creamy feta to the crisp cucumber, every component plays a crucial role in turning this bowl into a satisfying and delicious experience.
- 1 lb chicken breasts: The lean protein base that soaks up the Greek dressing marinade for flavorful bites.
- 1/2 cup Greek dressing: A zesty marinade that infuses the chicken with herbs and tanginess.
- 2 bags Success Boil-in-Bag White Rice: Conveniently cooked fluffy rice that serves as the hearty bed for your toppings.
- 1 (15.5 oz) can chickpeas: Adds protein-packed, creamy texture with a mild nutty flavor.
- 1 large cucumber, chopped: Fresh crunch and coolness to balance the boldness of other ingredients.
- 1 cup quartered grape tomatoes: Bursting juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion: Sharpness and a little bit of bite for complexity.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds creamy saltiness that is quintessential Mediterranean.
- 1/4 cup tzatziki: A refreshing yogurt cucumber sauce that ties everything together.
- 1/4 cup hummus: Earthy, smooth, and rich, giving each bowl a velvety depth.
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bowls Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken breasts in a bowl and pouring over the Greek dressing. Make sure every inch of the chicken is well coated to soak up those herby, tangy flavors. Then, pop it in the fridge for at least an hour. This step is key for juicy and flavorful chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice
While your chicken marinates, cook the Success Boil-in-Bag White Rice according to the package instructions. This method keeps things simple, giving you perfectly fluffy rice without the fuss.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Once marinated, cook the chicken breasts until they are cooked through and golden. You can either air fry at 400°F for about 12 to 15 minutes or bake them in the oven at 400°F for around 20 minutes. Both methods create a deliciously tender result.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Here’s the fun part: layering all your components! Divide the cooked rice into four bowls. Top with sliced chicken breasts, chickpeas, chopped cucumber, grape tomatoes, and red onion. Add dollops of hummus and tzatziki, and sprinkle crumbled feta on top. For an extra tangy kick, drizzle a little more Greek dressing if you like. Each element adds vibrant color and contrasting flavors that make this Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bowls Recipe so special.
How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bowls Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or dill are lovely on top here, adding a fresh, green note and a hint of brightness. You can also sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or a few kalamata olives to elevate the Mediterranean vibe and add crunch.
Side Dishes
This dish is already wonderfully balanced but pairing it with warm pita bread or a crisp Mediterranean salad with lemon vinaigrette can turn your bowl into a feast. A light glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors beautifully.
Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bowls Recipe: Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve everything family-style in bowls and let everyone build their own. If you’re meal prepping, layer the ingredients in mason jars or meal prep containers. Another idea is to scoop the mixture onto lettuce leaves for a fresh, handheld twist that’s perfect for warmer days.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can easily store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep wet ingredients like tzatziki separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
Freezing
While the chicken and rice freeze well, fresh ingredients like cucumber and tomatoes do not. Separate and freeze chicken and rice portions only. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Warm up your chicken and rice in the microwave or in a skillet on medium heat until heated through. Add fresh veggies, feta, and sauces after reheating for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice offers more fiber and a nuttier flavor that pairs nicely with the Mediterranean ingredients, though cooking times will be longer.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping. Store components separately if possible to keep everything fresh and assemble when ready to eat.
Can I substitute the chicken breast with another protein?
Grilled shrimp, beef strips, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option work well with this recipe and maintain the Mediterranean flair.
What can I use if I don’t have Greek dressing?
Try mixing olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and a pinch of salt for a quick homemade marinade that delivers similar flavors.
How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe is mild and fresh, but you can always add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer some heat.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bowls Recipe quickly becomes a go-to meal thanks to its layers of bold, fresh flavors and its satisfying yet light feel. It’s easy to prepare, nourishing, and makes leftovers (or meal prep) something to look forward to. Give it a try and bring a bit of the Mediterranean sunshine to your table any day of the week!
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Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bowls Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bowls recipe is a vibrant and healthy meal that combines marinated chicken breasts with fluffy white rice, fresh vegetables, and creamy Mediterranean toppings like feta cheese, hummus, and tzatziki. Perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner, these bowls offer a balanced blend of protein, carbs, and veggies, bursting with authentic Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Protein & Marinade
- 1 lb chicken breasts, about 2 large breasts
- 1/2 cup Greek dressing
Grains & Legumes
- 2 bags Success Boil-in-Bag White Rice, or 2 heaping cups of cooked white rice
- 1 (15.5 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Vegetables & Toppings
- 1 large cucumber, chopped
- 1 cup quartered grape tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup tzatziki
- 1/4 cup hummus
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a bowl and pour Greek dressing over them, making sure to coat both sides thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Prepare the rice: Cook the Success Boil-in-Bag White Rice according to the package instructions. If using regular cooked rice, ensure it is fluffy and warm for serving.
- Cook the chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, or until fully cooked.
- Assemble bowls: Divide the cooked rice into four serving bowls. Top each with sliced or whole cooked chicken breasts, drained chickpeas, chopped cucumber, quartered grape tomatoes, sliced red onion, dollops of hummus and tzatziki, and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese. Add extra Greek dressing if desired.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the Mediterranean chicken and rice bowls immediately for a fresh, flavorful meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for longer than 1 hour will deepen the flavor.
- You can substitute white rice for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier alternative.
- For added crunch, consider adding sliced olives or toasted pine nuts.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, baking the chicken is a great alternative.
- Use low-fat feta and Greek dressing for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean