Name: Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bowl
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup basmati rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; Lemon wedges, for serving

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Why Make This Recipe

The Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bowl is a delicious and healthy meal that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. It’s easy to prepare, packed with fresh ingredients, and perfect for any occasion. This dish is not only satisfying but also colorful and vibrant, making it a great choice for family dinners or meal prep.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bowl

Ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup basmati rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions:

In a medium bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken breasts to the bowl and ensure they are well coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
In a saucepan, add the basmati rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the broth is absorbed.
While the rice is cooking, heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and juices run clear.
Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice it into thin strips.
In a large serving bowl, layer the cooked rice, grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
Top with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bowl

Serve the Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bowl warm, with the fresh ingredients beautifully layered on top of the fluffy rice. You can also offer extra lemon wedges on the side for those who enjoy a tangy kick. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of pita bread or a light salad.

How to Store Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bowl

To store the Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bowl, let it cool to room temperature. Place the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, you can reheat it in the microwave or enjoy it cold as a refreshing salad.

Tips to Make Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bowl

Marinating the chicken for longer than 30 minutes enhances the flavor even more, so feel free to do it overnight.
Use a rice cooker for perfectly cooked basmati rice without any hassle.
Customize your bowl by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

Variation

For a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with grilled vegetables or chickpeas. You can also use quinoa instead of basmati rice for a different texture and flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I use other types of rice?
A: Yes, you can use other types of rice like jasmine rice or brown rice, but cooking times may vary.

Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, if you ensure that all ingredients, especially the chicken broth, are gluten-free.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and rice in advance. Assemble the bowls just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.

Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bowl