Name: Vibrant Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 1/4 cup olive oil, divided; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, divided; 3 cloves garlic, minced (divided); 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp salt, plus more to taste; 1/4 tsp black pepper, plus more to taste; 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa; 1 large cucumber, half diced, half grated; 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional); 1/4 cup fresh parsley or dill, chopped, plus more for garnish; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1
Prepare Chicken Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 2 cloves minced garlic, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Add chicken, ensuring it's fully coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
2
Cook Chicken: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates. Place marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3
Make Tzatziki-Inspired Dressing: While chicken cooks, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, 1 clove minced garlic, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/4 cup fresh dill or mint, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
4
Prepare Remaining Bowl Components: Cook rice or quinoa according to package directions. Dice half of the cucumber, halve cherry tomatoes, thinly slice red onion, and halve Kalamata olives.
5
Assemble Bowls: Divide cooked rice among 4 bowls. Top each with sliced grilled chicken. Arrange diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives around the chicken. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and chopped parsley or dill.
6
Serve: Drizzle generously with the tzatziki-inspired dressing and serve immediately.

💡 Notes

For dairy-free, omit feta and use a plant-based Greek yogurt alternative. You can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes if you don't have a grill. For meal prep, store all components separately and assemble just before eating to maintain freshness.

The Ultimate Mediterranean Chicken Bowl: Your Weeknight Meal Prep Hero

Vibrant Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl

📝 Ingredients

👩‍🍳 Instructions

💡 Notes

🥗 Nutrition (per serving)

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