Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl

Name: Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cooked quinoa or couscous; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Food Inspirations

I absolutely love creating vibrant meals that are as healthy as they are delicious. This Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl is one of my favorites, bursting with the flavors of the region. The combination of grilled chicken with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing elevates any meal. It not only looks colorful and appetizing but is also packed with nutrients. I enjoy serving this bowl for quick lunches or family dinners, making it a perfect choice for any day of the week.

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-02-10T21:17:36.326Z

When I first made this Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. Grilling the chicken adds a beautiful smoky flavor that complements the freshness of the vegetables perfectly. I realized that marinating the chicken in a mixture of herbs, garlic, and lemon juice not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a delightful zest.

One specific tip I want to share is to let the chicken rest before slicing it. This way, the juices stay locked in, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful. It's the perfect dish for gatherings, showcasing the vibrant colors and flavors of the Mediterranean diet.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy grilled chicken infused with Mediterranean spices
A colorful medley of fresh veggies and grains
Quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade is crucial for infusing the chicken with rich Mediterranean flavors. By combining olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and oregano, you create a vibrant base that not only tenderizes the chicken but also adds depth to its flavor profile. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes helps the spices penetrate the meat, but for even more flavor, consider marinating for up to an hour in the refrigerator.

Be mindful of the acidity of the marinade; while it enhances flavor, over-marinating can lead to a mushy texture. If you're short on time, even a quick 15-minute soak will impart a nice punch, but I recommend planning ahead for a more satisfying taste.

The Art of Grilling

Grilling is a fantastic way to lock in the juiciness of the chicken while developing those beautiful charred marks. Preheating your grill to medium-high heat is essential; this ensures the chicken sears upon contact, creating a flavorful crust. I usually aim for a temperature of around 400°F. Keep an eye on the chicken and flip it halfway through cooking to achieve even grilling. Look for an internal temperature of 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.

Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling is a small but significant step. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring each slice is equally juicy and flavorful. A good test is to cut into the chicken; it should be opaque throughout with no pink juices flowing.

Customizing Your Bowl

Feel free to get creative with the veggies in your Mediterranean bowl. While cherry tomatoes and cucumbers are traditional, adding roasted red peppers or even artichokes can bring new flavors and textures. You can swap out quinoa for couscous or even farro if you're looking for a different base. Each grain has its own unique texture and nutritional profile, allowing for endless experimentation.

For those who want to prep ahead, this bowl stores beautifully in the fridge. Combine the quinoa and vegetables as directed, but keep the grilled chicken and dressing separate until ready to serve to preserve freshness. This meal can last for up to three days in the fridge, making it a perfect option for meal prep.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl:

For the Chicken

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowl

1 cup cooked quinoa or couscous
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

For the Dressing

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready for assembly!

Instructions

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

Marinate the Chicken

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

Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is grilling, prepare the vegetables. In a large bowl, toss together the cooked quinoa or couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.

Assemble the Bowl

Divide the quinoa mixture into bowls. Top with sliced grilled chicken, crumbled feta cheese, and drizzle with the dressing. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your flavorful Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the chicken marinade. You can also substitute the quinoa with brown rice or a grain of your choice.

Flavor Combinations

The interplay of flavors in your Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl is what makes it truly special. The tanginess of feta cheese beautifully offsets the richness of the grilled chicken. Considering an extra drizzle of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish further, providing brightness and a hint of heat that rounds out the experience.

Experiment with different herbs in the bowl, too. Fresh dill or mint can complement the other ingredients nicely, particularly if you're looking to refresh the profiles as seasons change. These herbs add an additional layer of complexity and can transform the dish while still embracing its Mediterranean roots.

Make-ahead Tips

To make your Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl even more convenient, consider cooking extra chicken during your grilling sessions. Leftover grilled chicken can be a delightful addition to salads or wraps throughout the week, so it’s worthwhile to grill more than you need initially. Just store it in an airtight container for up to four days.

If you plan to freeze portions, slice the grilled chicken after it has cooled and separate it from the veggie mixture. This separation helps maintain the best texture upon reheating. Use freezer-safe containers to ensure they last well beyond a week, great for busy weekdays when a quick nutritious meal is a must.

Serving Suggestions

Serving your Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl in clear, shallow bowls allows the vibrant colors of the ingredients to shine through. You can even layer the ingredients aesthetically for visual appeal. A squeeze of fresh lemon over the whole bowl before serving can add a zesty finish that brightens every bite.

Consider complementing your bowl with a side of warm pita bread or a simple Greek salad. These additions not only enhance the dining experience but also provide some good sources of fiber and additional nutrients, making your meal wholesome and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with turkey, tofu, or even grilled shrimp.

→ How can I make the bowl vegan?

Simply swap the chicken for grilled vegetables or chickpeas and omit the feta cheese.

→ What else can I add to the bowl?

Feel free to include additional toppings like roasted red peppers, artichokes, or avocado for extra flavor.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables in advance, making assembly quick and easy.