Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl

Name: Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; Fresh parsley, for garnish; Tzatziki sauce, for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Taste Adventure

I love making this Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl on busy evenings when I need a healthy meal that's quick and satisfying. The vibrant flavors from the marinated chicken combined with fresh vegetables and grains create a flavorful mix that lifts my spirits. The best part is that this dish is customizable according to what’s in my fridge, and I can easily whip it up in about 30 minutes. It’s my go-to recipe for a nutritious dinner that feels special without a lot of fuss.

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-15T07:05:36.628Z

When I first stumbled upon this Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl recipe, I couldn't wait to try it because I love Mediterranean flavors. I marinated the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, which really enhances its juiciness while grilling. The combination of spices also transports my taste buds right to the Mediterranean coast.

This recipe has become a staple in my home because it allows for so much creativity. I’ve swapped out traditional grains for quinoa and even added dollops of tzatziki for extra creaminess. Trust me, the unexpected flavors will impress anyone at your dinner table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously marinated chicken grilled to perfection
Fresh veggies that add a nice crunch and color
A wholesome meal that brings the Mediterranean right to your kitchen

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade for this Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl is a crucial element that infuses the chicken with flavor. By combining olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, you're not just seasoning the meat; you're enhancing it. The acid from the lemon helps tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful. Make sure to marinate for at least 15 minutes, but if time allows, leaving it for up to two hours will enhance the taste even further. Just remember not to marinate too long, as the lemon can make the chicken mushy.

For an added twist, consider experimenting with different herbs or spices in your marinade. A dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of cumin can elevate the flavor profile, offering an earthy richness that pairs beautifully with the fresh vegetables in the bowl. If you don't have dried oregano, you can substitute with a mix of thyme and rosemary for a slightly different, yet equally delightful, experience.

Bowl Assembly Tips

When assembling your Mediterranean bowls, let creativity shine by choosing diverse fresh ingredients. The base of cooked brown rice or quinoa can be a great canvas. Not only does quinoa offer extra protein, but the nutty flavor pairs perfectly with the grilled chicken. If you're aiming for a lighter option, cauliflower rice is also a fantastic substitute, especially if you're following a low-carb diet, adding a satisfying texture without the extra calories.

The toppings are where you can customize this dish further. Consider adding roasted red peppers or arugula for an extra pop of color and flavor. For a bit of sweetness, grilled zucchini or bell peppers complement the dish beautifully. If you'd like a bit more zest, drizzle a touch of lemon juice or balsamic glaze over the top before serving. These small adjustments can transform an already delightful meal into something uniquely yours.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl:

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Bowl

2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Tzatziki sauce, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Prepare the Bowls

While the chicken is grilling, prepare the bowls by dividing the cooked brown rice or quinoa among four serving bowls.

Add Toppings

Slice the grilled chicken and arrange it on top of the grains. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and olives.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with tzatziki sauce if desired. Enjoy your wholesome Mediterranean meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider letting the chicken marinate overnight. Feel free to substitute any seasonal vegetables or grains you have on hand.

Meal Prep and Storage

This Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can grill several chicken breasts at once and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. Just reheat them on the stovetop or microwave when you're ready to enjoy your meal. The components of the bowl can be prepared in advance as well; simply keep the grains, vegetables, and toppings separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

If you're looking to freeze your components, consider freezing the grilled chicken in portioned sizes. When defrosted, it can still retain its juicy texture if reheated gently. The grains can also be frozen, though certain veggies like cucumbers and tomatoes are best added fresh to avoid becoming soggy. Assemble your bowls right before eating for optimal taste and texture.

Variations to Try

This dish can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with grilled tempeh or chickpeas, which will help maintain a hearty texture while absorbing all the wonderful marinade flavors. Alternatively, a mix of roasted vegetables can add warmth and depth to the bowl, making it satisfying without the meat.

If you want to experiment with global flavors, try incorporating different sauces like tahini, chimichurri, or harissa for a Middle Eastern twist. For a Mediterranean-style spin, relish with a drizzle of yogurt sauce blended with lemon juice and garlic. These variations not only diversify the meal but cater to different taste preferences, ensuring that this grilled chicken bowl remains a staple in your kitchen rotation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store the chopped vegetables in the fridge.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or omit the cheese entirely for a dairy-free version.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use quinoa or another gluten-free grain instead of brown rice.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are more tender and also work great in this dish.