Name: Mediterranean Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 cups cooked quinoa; Fresh parsley, for garnish; For the Dressing:; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Why You’ll Love Mediterranean Chicken Bowl Recipe

The Mediterranean Chicken Bowl is a balanced, nourishing, and customizable meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. It’s packed with protein, fresh veggies, and heart-healthy fats. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead lunches. Plus, the combination of seasoned chicken, crisp vegetables, and zesty homemade dressing will have your taste buds dancing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 cups cooked quinoa
Fresh parsley, for garnish

For the Dressing:

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated chicken. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
In a separate bowl, mix together the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
In a small jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
To assemble the bowls, divide the cooked quinoa among serving bowls. Top with the cooked chicken, vegetable mixture, and drizzle with the dressing.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: 380 kcal per serving

Variations

Grain Swap: Replace quinoa with brown rice, couscous, farro, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Protein Options: Use grilled shrimp, salmon, or chickpeas for a vegetarian or pescatarian version.
Dairy-Free: Omit feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Extra Greens: Serve over a bed of spinach or arugula for a salad-style bowl.
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm the chicken and quinoa separately in the microwave for 1-2 minutes before assembling the bowl. Keep the vegetables and dressing chilled and add them after reheating for the freshest taste.

FAQs

How can I meal prep this Mediterranean Chicken Bowl?

Prepare all components (chicken, quinoa, vegetables, and dressing) separately, store in containers, and assemble just before eating to keep everything fresh.

Can I use store-bought dressing instead?

Yes, but homemade dressing adds fresher flavor and fewer additives. A Greek vinaigrette works well if you opt for store-bought.

What type of chicken is best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breast is lean and quick to cook, but chicken thighs can also be used for more juiciness.

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-cooking?

Absolutely. Grilling adds a smoky flavor that complements the Mediterranean ingredients beautifully.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all ingredients used are certified gluten-free, especially the quinoa and seasonings.

Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?

Yes, brown rice is a great substitute and adds a slightly nutty flavor and more fiber.

What’s a good vegetarian alternative?

Swap the chicken for roasted chickpeas, tofu, or falafel for a protein-packed vegetarian version.

How long does the dressing last?

The homemade dressing can be stored in the fridge in a sealed jar for up to one week.

Can I make this bowl spicy?

Yes, add crushed red pepper, harissa, or a spicy yogurt sauce to give it a kick.

Do I need to marinate the chicken?

While marinating enhances flavor, you can skip it if you’re short on time—just season well before cooking.

Conclusion

The Mediterranean Chicken Bowl is a wholesome, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick, nutritious dinner, this recipe delivers on taste, texture, and nutrition. With fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a zesty dressing, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.