Mediterranean Chicken Rice Bowl: Prepare to embark on a culinary journey to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean! Imagine tender, flavorful chicken nestled atop a bed of fluffy rice, bursting with vibrant vegetables and drizzled with a creamy, tangy sauce. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that will transport your taste buds to a seaside taverna.

The beauty of Mediterranean cuisine lies in its simplicity and reliance on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Rooted in centuries of tradition, this style of cooking emphasizes healthy fats, lean proteins, and an abundance of colorful produce. While the exact origins of a “Mediterranean Chicken Rice Bowl” as a single dish are modern, it draws inspiration from classic Mediterranean flavors and ingredients found in various dishes across the region. Think of it as a deconstructed souvlaki or a reimagined Greek salad, all conveniently served in a bowl.

What makes this Mediterranean Chicken Rice Bowl so irresistible? It’s the perfect harmony of textures and tastes. The juicy chicken, the fluffy rice, the crisp vegetables, and the creamy sauce all come together to create a symphony of flavors in every bite. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and easy to customize to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option, this bowl is a winner. It’s also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence that you can feel good about eating. Get ready to discover your new favorite way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large red onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Rice:

2 cups long-grain rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
4 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
1/2 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)

For the Bowl Assembly:

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Lemon wedges, for serving
Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

Preparing the Chicken:

Okay, let’s start with the star of the show – the chicken! This part is super flavorful and really sets the tone for the whole bowl. Trust me, you’ll love it!

Prep the Chicken: First, make sure your chicken breasts are cut into even, 1-inch cubes. This helps them cook evenly and quickly. Pat them dry with paper towels – this is key for getting a nice sear.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced red onion and cook until softened and slightly translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Add the Peppers: Now, add the chopped red and yellow bell peppers to the skillet. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften. We want them to have a little bit of bite still, so don’t overcook them.
Introduce the Tomatoes and Olives: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice!), Kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir everything together to combine all those wonderful Mediterranean flavors.
Spice it Up: Add the tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them – I like a little kick!). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, so start with a little less and adjust as you go.
Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Cook the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it evenly with the sauce. Increase the heat to medium and cook the chicken until it’s cooked through and no longer pink inside, about 8-10 minutes. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Cooking the Rice:

Next up, let’s get the rice going. Fluffy, perfectly cooked rice is the foundation of our bowl, so we want to get this right. I prefer using chicken broth for extra flavor, but water works just fine too!

Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
Sauté the Rice (Optional): In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is lightly toasted. This step is optional, but it adds a nice nutty flavor to the rice.
Add Broth and Salt: Pour in the chicken broth and add the salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Simmer and Steam: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and let the rice simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Do not lift the lid during this time! This is crucial for proper steaming.
Fluff and Rest: After 18-20 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5-10 minutes. This allows the rice to finish steaming and become even more fluffy. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Making the Tzatziki Sauce:

Now for the cool and creamy Tzatziki sauce! This is the perfect complement to the savory chicken and rice. It’s so easy to make and adds a refreshing touch to the bowl.

Prepare the Cucumber: Peel, seed, and grate the cucumber. Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible. This prevents the sauce from becoming watery.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, squeezed cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and chopped fresh dill (if using).
Mix Well: Stir everything together until well combined.
Chill (Optional): For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the Tzatziki sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Assembling the Mediterranean Chicken Rice Bowl:

Alright, we’ve got all the components ready! Now comes the fun part – putting everything together to create our delicious Mediterranean Chicken Rice Bowl.

Base of Rice: Start by placing a generous scoop of cooked rice in the bottom of each bowl.
Top with Chicken: Spoon the Mediterranean chicken and sauce over the rice. Be sure to get a good mix of chicken, peppers, onions, and tomatoes in each bowl.
Drizzle with Tzatziki: Drizzle a generous amount of Tzatziki sauce over the chicken and rice. Don’t be shy!
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese (if using). Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the bowl.

Tips and Variations:

Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to the chicken mixture, such as zucchini, eggplant, or artichoke hearts.
Use Different Protein: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can substitute lamb, beef, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken for extra heat.
Add a Salad: Serve the bowl with a side of Greek salad for a complete and healthy meal.
Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Store the chicken, rice, and Tzatziki sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Assemble the bowls just before serving.
Grain Alternatives: If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, substitute the rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice.
Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the Tzatziki sauce for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Experiment with different fresh herbs in the Tzatziki sauce, such as mint or chives.
Spice Blends: Instead of individual spices, use a Mediterranean spice blend for convenience.
Marinate the Chicken: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and salt for at least

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! This Mediterranean Chicken Rice Bowl isn’t just a recipe; it’s a vibrant, flavorful journey to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean, all within the comfort of your own kitchen. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe, and here’s why: it’s incredibly easy to prepare, bursting with fresh, healthy ingredients, and utterly delicious. The combination of tender, marinated chicken, fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and tangy feta creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to adapt this recipe to your own tastes and preferences. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade or a drizzle of sriracha to the finished bowl. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, simply swap the chicken for grilled halloumi cheese or roasted chickpeas. They both add a wonderful salty and nutty element that complements the other ingredients beautifully. You could also experiment with different types of rice – brown rice for a nuttier flavor, quinoa for extra protein, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

This Mediterranean Chicken Rice Bowl is fantastic as a quick and easy weeknight dinner, but it’s also perfect for meal prepping. Prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat. It’s also a great option for lunchboxes or picnics. For a more substantial meal, consider adding a side of warm pita bread or a refreshing Greek salad. And don’t forget the toppings! A dollop of hummus, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, or a drizzle of olive oil can elevate this dish to the next level.

Here are a few more ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Lemon Herb Dressing: Instead of a simple olive oil drizzle, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, and parsley for a vibrant and flavorful dressing.
- Spicy Feta: Crumble feta cheese and toss it with a pinch of red pepper flakes and a drizzle of olive oil for a spicy and tangy topping.
- Grilled Vegetables: Add grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant to the bowl for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Avocado: Sliced avocado adds a creamy and healthy fat that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
I’ve poured my heart into creating this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors that will transport you to the Mediterranean with every bite. This Mediterranean Chicken Rice Bowl is more than just a meal; it’s an experience.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on some upbeat music, and get cooking! I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself. And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did you think of the flavors? Share your photos and comments with me – I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking!
Mediterranean Chicken Rice Bowl: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Rice Bowls with tender chicken in a vibrant tomato-olive sauce, served over fluffy rice and topped with cool tzatziki.

Save This Recipe

Prep Time25 minutes

Cook Time45 minutes

Total Time70 minutes

Yield4-6 servings

👨‍🍳By: Ava

📂Category: Dinner

📊Difficulty: Easy

🌍Cuisine: American

🍽️Yield: 4-6 servings

🥗Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

011.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

022 tablespoons olive oil

031 large red onion, thinly sliced

042 cloves garlic, minced

051 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped

061 yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped

071 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

081/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

091/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped

102 tablespoons tomato paste

111 teaspoon dried oregano

121 teaspoon dried basil

131/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

14Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

152 cups long-grain rice (such as basmati or jasmine)

164 cups chicken broth

171 tablespoon olive oil

181/2 teaspoon salt

191 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)

201/2 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated

211 clove garlic, minced

221 tablespoon lemon juice

231 tablespoon olive oil

241/4 teaspoon salt

251/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

261 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)

27Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

28Lemon wedges, for serving

29Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

Instructions

Step 01

Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes and pat dry.

Step 02

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add red onion and cook until softened (5-7 minutes). Add garlic and cook until fragrant (1 minute).

Step 03

Add red and yellow bell peppers and cook until slightly softened (5 minutes).

Step 04

Add diced tomatoes (with juice), Kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir to combine.

Step 05

Add tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper.

Step 06

Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 07

Add chicken to the skillet and stir to coat. Increase heat to medium and cook until chicken is cooked through (8-10 minutes, internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).

Step 08

Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear.

Step 09

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add rice and cook, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted (2-3 minutes).

Step 10

Pour in chicken broth and add salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.

Step 11

Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed and rice is tender. Do not lift the lid.

Step 12

Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5-10 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Step 13

Peel, seed, and grate the cucumber. Squeeze out excess liquid using a kitchen towel or cheesecloth.

Step 14

In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and dill (if using).

Step 15

Stir until well combined.

Step 16

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Step 17

Place a scoop of rice in each bowl.

Step 18

Spoon chicken and sauce over the rice.

Step 19

Drizzle Tzatziki sauce over the chicken and rice.

Step 20

Garnish with parsley and feta cheese (if using). Serve with lemon wedges.
Recipe Notes
- Add More Veggies: Zucchini, eggplant, or artichoke hearts can be added to the chicken mixture.
- Use Different Protein: Lamb, beef, or chickpeas can be substituted for chicken.
- Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Add a Salad: Serve with a side of Greek salad.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store chicken, rice, and Tzatziki separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Grain Alternatives: Quinoa or cauliflower rice can be used instead of rice.
- Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the Tzatziki sauce.
- Fresh Herbs: Experiment with different fresh herbs in the Tzatziki sauce.
- Spice Blends: Use a Mediterranean spice blend.
- Marinate the Chicken: Marinate the chicken for more flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure the bread stays moist?

Use fresh, ripe ingredients and avoid overmixing the batter. Store in an airtight container.

→ Can I substitute ingredients?

Yes, you can substitute similar ingredients while maintaining the basic ratios for best results.

→ How long does this bread keep?

Store tightly wrapped at room temperature for 2-3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ What if I don't have all the spices?

You can adjust spices to taste or substitute with similar warming spices.

→ Can I freeze this bread?

Yes, wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.