Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bowl

Name: Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bowl
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4-6 small chicken thighs, yo can use chicken breasts too; 1 1/4 cups cooked white rice, regular or instant; 1/4-1/2 cup thinly sliced red onions; 1/4-1/2 cup cherry or grape tomatoes; 1/4-1/3 cup sliced and halved English or hot house cucumbers (The ones wrapped in plastic wrap at the grocery/supermarkets; 1/8-1/4 cup kalamata olives; 4 tablespoons hummus; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 8 tablespoons olive oil, I used extra virgin; juice of one lemon. Roll the lemon before cutting to release the juices.; 1 1/2 tablepsoons dried oregano; 1 to 2 crushed garlic cloves or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2-1 teaspoon granulated sugar, you can leave out but, taste before pouring using the dressing; salt and pepper to taste; chopped scallions for garnish

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This Mediterranean chicken and rice bowl is a healthy, delicious meal chock full of the flavors of Greece. Chicken thighs, white rice, vegetables, hummus, and an easy vinaigrette create a dish that’s as good for you as it is for your taste buds!

I love cooking with chicken. There’s just so much you can do with it! From healthy, simple recipes like lemon garlic roast chicken to party favorites like Buffalo chicken drumsticks, the mild flavor of white and dark meat chicken makes them an affordable, versatile protein source you can use in so many different ways.

Why You’ll Love Mediterranean Chicken and Rice

Simple Ingredients: You can find everything you need for this recipe in your kitchen or at a local grocery store.
Easy to Make: This recipe is quick and easy, taking very little effort or cooking knowledge.
Healthy: This is a healthy recipe loaded with protein and veggies.
Flavorful: Like all Mediterranean recipes, this chicken and rice bowl is loaded with delicious, complex flavor.

Ingredients

Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are loaded with flavor and have a rich texture.
Vegetables: Red onions, grape tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives add flavor and texture.
Hummus: Hummus adds classic Greek flavor.
White Rice: White rice is the base for this recipe and is a classic staple in Mediterranean food.
Vinaigrette: The entire dish is garnished with a flavorful vinaigrette made with vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, a touch of sugar, and seasonings.
Green Onions/scallions: Gives a pop of freshness with a mild onion flavor.

See the recipe card at the end of the post for a full list of ingredients and their exact amounts.

Flavor Variations

Protein: You can use chicken thighs, chicken breasts, or pork chops for this recipe.
Spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
Rice: Make this recipe even healthier by using brown rice instead of white rice.
Onions: If you prefer mellower onion flavor, use yellow onions.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bowls

1: Combine all the dressing ingredients.

2: Place the chicken breasts and half the dressing in a large bowl and mix. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours. Refrigerate the other half of the dressing during this time, as well.

3: Cook the marinated chicken and dressing in a large skillet until the chicken is cooked through.

4: Layer the rice, chicken, vegetables, and hummus in two large bowls in that order. Drizzle with the dressing, garnish with scallions, and enjoy!

Hint

Two hours is the sweet spot for marinating your chicken breasts. One hour works, but the flavor won’t be intense. Any longer than two hours can make the chicken feel mealy.

Storage

Store these bowls covered tightly for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Be aware that the longer they’re stored, the softer the rice will get due to the dressing.

What to Serve with Mediterranean Chicken Bowls

Pair this Greek chicken and rice with vegetables like parmesan green beans or crispy baked zucchini for a full, flavorful meal.

For a sweet finish to the meal, try fruity desserts like strawberry dump cake, chocolate-covered blueberry yogurt clusters, or no-bake orange lemon pie.

Tips

Marinate your chicken for about two hours. Less than that imbues less flavor, and more than two hours makes the chicken too soft.
Whisk your dressing vigorously to fully combine the ingredients.
Use high-quality oil for the dressing. The flavor will shine through, so it should be tasty!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mediterranean cooking?

Mediterranean cooking incorporates flavors from many cultures and countries to create recipes that are flavorful and, most times, healthy, thanks to its frequent use of vegetables, healthy oil, and lean proteins.

What ingredients are in Mediterranean dishes?

Lamb, poultry, and pork are common protein sources in Mediterranean cooking. Recipes from this region also use a wide variety of vegetables, grains, citrus, and yogurt.

Are these Mediterranean chicken and rice bowls healthy?

They certainly are! They’re full of protein, vegetables, and healthy fat. You can make them even healthier by using brown rice in place of white rice.