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Mediterranean Chicken Bowl with fresh vegetables and ingredients

Mediterranean Chicken Bowl with Rice

A vibrant and satisfying bowl featuring marinated chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh vegetables, perfect for easy weeknight meals.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Healthy, Mediterranean
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs Juicy cut of chicken, can substitute with chicken breasts.
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Use a fruity, good-quality oil.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Freshly squeezed is preferred.
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced Essential for savory flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Classic Mediterranean herb.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste Season to enhance flavor.
For the Rice
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice Rinse to remove excess starch.
  • 2 cups chicken broth or water Broth adds richness.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest Adds aromatic note.
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped For freshness.
Vegetables and Toppings
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Adds sweetness and color.
  • ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved Brings a briny flavor.
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced For crunch.
  • ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced For bite.
  • ½ cup tzatziki sauce Adds cooling richness.
  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled Optional; adds salty tang.

Method
 

Marinate the Chicken
  1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly. Cover and let marinate at room temperature for 10 minutes or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cook the Rice
  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and chicken broth or water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in lemon zest and chopped parsley.
Cook the Chicken
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  2. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the Vegetables
  1. While the chicken cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the olives, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion.
  2. Crumble feta cheese if using.
Assemble the Bowls
  1. Scoop a generous serving of rice into your bowl. Top with sliced chicken, tomatoes, olives, cucumber, red onion, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce.
  2. Sprinkle with crumbled feta if desired, and drizzle a little extra olive oil and a squeeze of lemon over the top.

Notes

Marinate chicken for 10 minutes to 2 hours for best flavor. Store components separately to maintain texture. Serve with warm pita and a light drink.