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Mediterranean Rice Bowl

Mediterranean Rice Bowl: A Flavor-Packed Weeknight Delight

Enjoy a Mediterranean Rice Bowl filled with grilled chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh veggies, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marination Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Skewers
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast Thigh meat can be used for juicier skewers.
  • 1/2 cup Full Fat Greek Yogurt Plain yogurt or tzatziki can work in a pinch.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil A lighter olive oil can be used if needed.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Garlic powder is a last-minute substitute.
  • 1 each Lemon Juice Juice of 1 lemon; vinegar can be an alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Crushed tomatoes can replace it if unavailable.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika gives a different flavor profile.
  • to taste Kosher Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste Fresh Cracked Pepper Essential for seasoning.
For the Rice Pilaf
  • 2 cups Basmati Rice Jasmine rice is a suitable substitute.
  • 3 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for vegetarian options.
For the Salad
  • 1 large Cucumber Substitute with bell peppers for a different texture.
  • 4 each Tomatoes Can use 2 large beefsteak or cherry tomatoes instead.
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Mint or Parsley Basil can serve as a good replacement.
For Serving
  • 4 slices Naan or Pita Bread Gluten-free options are available.
  • 8 oz Hummus Feel free to use any dip as an alternative.

Equipment

  • Grill
  • mixing bowl
  • pot
  • Wooden Skewers
  • knife
  • cutting board

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Begin by cutting the chicken breast into 1-inch cubes and placing them in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is generously coated. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour.
  2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. Grill for 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  3. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes until translucent. Stir in the basmati rice and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth, season with salt, bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 15 minutes.
  4. In a medium bowl, combine diced cucumber, chopped tomatoes, olive oil, and freshly chopped mint or parsley. Lightly season with salt and pepper, tossing gently to mix.
  5. To assemble, divide the fluffy rice pilaf between bowls. Top with grilled chicken skewers, fresh salad, and a dollop of hummus. Serve with warm naan or pita bread.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 45gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour or overnight for better flavor. Use fresh vegetables and herbs for best results.

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