Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bowls Recipe

If you’re searching for a delicious meal that’s colorful, zesty, wholesome, and shockingly easy to put together, these Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bowls will absolutely steal your heart! Packed with juicy marinated chicken, fresh veggies, pillowy rice, and creamy toppings, every bite is a flavor-packed adventure you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how a few simple, quality ingredients can transport a humble bowl of rice into a Mediterranean adventure! Each item on this list brings its own pop of flavor, crunch, or creamy goodness, and together they give Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bowls their signature flair.

• Chicken Breasts: Lean, juicy, and perfect for soaking up that tangy Greek marinade—boneless, skinless is easiest here.
• Greek Dressing: Your shortcut to bold flavor; use your favorite store-bought dressing or homemade if time allows.
• White Rice (Boil-in-Bag or cooked): A fluffy base that soaks up all the savory juices and keeps the bowls hearty and satisfying.
• Chickpeas: These add buttery texture and plant-based protein, making your bowls extra substantial.
• Cucumber: For a welcome crunch and refreshing coolness in every bite—peeling is optional, but I love them crisp and green!
• Grape Tomatoes: Bursting with sweetness; quarter them for the perfect forkful every time.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a hint of robust flavor and eye-catching color.
• Feta Cheese: That salty, crumbly magic—just a handful lifts every bowl into Greek salad territory!
• Tzatziki: Creamy, herby, and tangy, this yogurt sauce is truly what makes these bowls irresistible.
• Hummus: Adds protein, creamy texture, and a nutty accent that balances out all the fresh veggies.

Variations

One of the greatest joys of Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bowls is making them your own! Don’t be shy—swap ingredients, add your favorites, or cater to dietary needs; it’s actually tough to go wrong here.

• Swap the Grain: Try brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a different texture or to make it low-carb.
• Go Vegetarian: Skip the chicken or sub with roasted chickpeas, falafel, or grilled halloumi for a protein-rich vegetarian twist.
• Add More Veggies: Roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or even spinach work beautifully in these bowls.
• Experiment with Dressings: Lemon-tahini, garlic yogurt, or even zhoug can give the bowls a fresh flavor spin.
• Spice It Up: Toss in a few olives, a scoop of spicy harissa, or some hot sauce for an extra kick.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bowls

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing your chicken breasts in a bowl or container and pouring over the Greek dressing. Toss or turn to fully coat each piece, then cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight is even better—the longer, the more flavorful!).

Step 2: Cook the Rice

While the chicken is marinating, cook your rice according to package directions. If using boil-in-bag rice, it’s as simple as dropping the bags into boiling water, draining, and fluffing. Set the cooked rice aside and cover to keep it warm and steamy.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your air fryer or oven to 400°F. If air frying, line the basket for easy clean-up, then place the marinated breasts inside. Cook for 12-15 minutes total, flipping halfway, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Prefer baking? Lay them out on a lined sheet, bake for about 20 minutes, and you’re set.

Step 4: Prep the Bowl Toppings

While the chicken cooks, chop your cucumber, quarter the grape tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Drain and rinse your chickpeas so they’re ready—fresh, vibrant veggies are the heart of these bowls!

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a minute, then slice or dice it. Scoop a generous mound of rice into each bowl, then layer on the chicken, veggies, chickpeas, and red onion. Finally, add dollops of hummus and tzatziki, sprinkle with feta, and drizzle with extra Greek dressing if you’d like. Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bowls, ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bowls

Garnishes

Sprinkle each bowl with a little extra crumbled feta, a shower of freshly chopped parsley or dill, and a wedge of lemon for squeezing—a final flourish that brightens every bite!

Side Dishes

These bowls pair perfectly with warm pita bread, olives, or a side of roasted vegetables. For a bigger Mediterranean feast, add a crisp Greek salad or a bowl of lemony lentil soup.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bowls “bar-style” for a gathering—set out bowls of every component and let guests build their own! Or, layer everything into a large platter for a stunning “deconstructed salad” centerpiece at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the chicken, rice, and toppings in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps everything fresh and allows you to mix and match at mealtime.

Freezing

Cooked chicken and rice freeze beautifully—just keep the veggies and fresh toppings out. Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers and thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Gently rewarm chicken and rice in the microwave (tented with a paper towel to prevent drying), then add your cold toppings and dressings to keep every forkful perfectly balanced.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a meal that’s as fun to assemble as it is to eat, Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bowls are calling your name. Whether for a speedy weeknight dinner, a make-ahead lunch, or your next lively gathering, these bowls promise bright, bold flavor every single time. Gather your ingredients and give it a try—you’re going to fall in love!

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