Easy Healthy Mediterranean Chicken Bowl

Name: Easy Healthy Mediterranean Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 2 cups cooked quinoa or rice; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup olives, sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Ideas

I love making this Easy Healthy Mediterranean Chicken Bowl as a quick and nutritious meal. It's packed with vibrant vegetables, tender chicken, and a zesty dressing that ties everything together. It's perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. The flavors are fresh and satisfying, making it a dish that the whole family enjoys. Plus, it’s versatile; you can swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful bowl!

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2026-02-24T05:45:36.516Z

When I first tried making a Mediterranean-inspired dish, I was amazed at how simple and flavorful it could be. The combination of grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing made for a refreshing meal that I could enjoy all week. I found that marinating the chicken beforehand enhances the flavor tremendously, making it juicy and tender.

Through trial and error, I discovered that adding a sprinkle of feta cheese really elevates the bowl. It’s the perfect balance with the crunchy veggies and adds a nice creaminess. Plus, you can easily customize this bowl with your favorite ingredients!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Vibrant flavors from fresh ingredients
Easy to customize for your taste
Healthy and satisfying for any meal

Choosing the Right Chicken

When selecting chicken for this bowl, boneless and skinless chicken breasts are ideal due to their lean protein content and quick cooking time. If you prefer an alternative, thighs can be used; they offer a juicier texture and richer flavor, but remember to adjust cooking times as thighs typically require a few more minutes to reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

To ensure the chicken remains tender during cooking, avoid overcrowding the skillet or grill. This will create steam instead of searing. If cooking multiple breasts, work in batches to develop that golden-brown crust, which enhances the dish's overall flavor.

Perfectly Cooking Quinoa

Cooking quinoa might seem straightforward, but there are a few tricks to elevate its texture. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking—this removes the saponins that can create a bitter taste. Use a ratio of 1 part quinoa to 2 parts water or broth for enhanced flavor. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, covering it until the grains are fluffy and the water is absorbed, which typically takes about 15 minutes.

Once cooked, let the quinoa rest for at least 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. This step allows the steam to redistribute, resulting in perfectly separated grains, which will absorb the flavors of the bowl beautifully.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the joys of the Mediterranean chicken bowl is its versatility. Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus can add depth, while chickpeas can provide an extra protein punch without adding meat.

If you're looking to make this dish vegan or vegetarian, consider replacing chicken with marinated tofu or tempeh. These alternatives soak up flavors well, especially when tossed in the same marinade used for the chicken. Just remember to adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure they are cooked through and a bit crispy on the edges.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Mediterranean Chicken Bowl:

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
2 cups cooked quinoa or rice
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup olives, sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to adjust the quantities based on your taste and dietary preferences!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Easy Healthy Mediterranean Chicken Bowl:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Allow it to rest before slicing.

Prepare the Quinoa

While the chicken is cooking, prepare quinoa or rice according to package instructions.

Assemble the Bowl

In a bowl, place a serving of quinoa or rice as the base. Top with diced cucumber, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, and sliced chicken.

Finish with Feta

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top. Drizzle with additional olive oil and lemon juice if desired.

Enjoy your nutritious meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables you like or even switch the protein for chickpeas to make it vegetarian.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Mediterranean Chicken Bowl is perfect for meal prepping. Cooked chicken and quinoa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To keep the ingredients fresh, store the vegetables separately and add them just before serving. This not only maintains their crispness but also prevents them from becoming soggy over time.

For those looking to extend the life of their bowl, cooked chicken can also be frozen. Slice it and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When you're ready to consume, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat. Just be sure to check for moisture to avoid rubbery chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Mediterranean Chicken Bowl with a side of tzatziki or hummus for an extra flavor boost. These dips can complement the zesty notes of lemon and feta while adding a creamy texture. Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or mint for a burst of color and freshness.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider a DIY bowl bar. Set out all the ingredients in separate bowls, allowing guests to create their own customized versions. This interactive element can be a fun way to cater to various dietary restrictions while showcasing the versatility of this healthy meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?

Yes, you can use rice, couscous, or even a mix of grains to suit your preference.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free grains like quinoa, this dish is gluten-free.

→ Can I add more protein?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chickpeas, shrimp, or tofu for additional protein.