Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl

Name: Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cooked quinoa; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; Fresh parsley for garnish; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 garlic clove, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Authentic Global Cuisine Favorites

I absolutely love this Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl. It combines the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with the freshness of grilled vegetables and herbs. Every bite is packed with juicy marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing that ties everything together. It’s perfect for weekend meal prep or a quick dinner during the week. Whether I’m entertaining friends or satisfying my own cravings, this dish never disappoints.

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-02-10T19:07:36.128Z

The first time I made this Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl, I was blown away by the freshness of the ingredients. I marinated the chicken in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano, allowing it to absorb all the vibrant flavors. I grilled the chicken to perfection, creating a beautiful char that enhanced the taste.

What sets this bowl apart is the tangy yogurt dressing, which adds a creamy element that balances the dish perfectly. I recommend adding extra veggies, like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, for added crunch and color. It truly elevates the meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy, marinated chicken that’s full of flavor
Fresh, crisp vegetables that add a satisfying crunch
Customizable with your favorite grains or toppings

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that enhances its flavor and tenderness. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano not only infuses the chicken with Mediterranean flavors but also helps to tenderize it. Aim to marinate for at least 20 minutes, although an hour or more would be even better. Keep it in the refrigerator to ensure food safety while allowing those juicy flavors to soak in.

Remember, the longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be. If you're running short on time, even a quick 20-minute soak can make a difference. During this time, the acid in the lemon juice works to break down protein structures, making the chicken juicy and preventing it from drying out when grilled.

Assembling and Serving the Bowl

When assembling your Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl, it's all about layering for the best flavor experience. Start with a generous base of quinoa; its nutty flavor complements the grilled chicken beautifully. As you layer, consider the placement of sliced vegetables. Group them in a way that makes them visually appealing, and don’t hesitate to add more veggies if you like—zucchini, radishes, or even olives make great additions.

For serving, a drizzle of the homemade yogurt dressing over the top adds the finishing touch. The dressing not only enhances the flavor profile but also gives a creamy contrast to the crunchy vegetables. If you find yourself with leftover dressing, it keeps well in the fridge for up to a week, making it handy for salads and other dishes.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl:

For the Chicken Bowl

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
2 teaspoons dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, sliced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
Fresh parsley for garnish

For the Yogurt Dressing

1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

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

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 20 minutes.

Prepare the Yogurt Dressing

In a separate bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

Assemble the Bowl

In each bowl, start with a base of quinoa. Top with grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Drizzle the yogurt dressing over the top.

Garnish and Serve

Finally, garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Mediterranean creation!

This bowl can be served warm or cold, making it versatile for any occasion!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding feta cheese or olives to the bowl. You can also substitute the quinoa with brown rice or couscous based on your preference.

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

If you're looking to lighten up the dish, consider swapping the quinoa for cauliflower rice or a mix of leafy greens. Both options provide a low-carb base while still delivering a satisfying texture. Additionally, if you're short on time or ingredients, feel free to use pre-cooked grilled chicken strips from the grocery store; they still pair well with the yogurt dressing and fresh veggies.

For a more vibrant flavor profile, you can add spices like smoked paprika or cumin to the marinade for the chicken. Alternatively, try using different herbs, such as thyme or basil, based on what you have on hand. These adjustments lead to a unique twist on the base recipe that can switch things up during meal prep.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To best store your Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl, keep the ingredients separate until you're ready to serve. While the cooked chicken and quinoa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, the fresh vegetables should ideally be consumed within 24 hours, as they can lose their crunch. Place everything in airtight containers to maintain freshness.

When reheating, consider warming the chicken and quinoa in a skillet over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes, just until heated through. If reheating in a microwave, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Avoid reheating the vegetables, as they can become soggy; fresh veggies add a vital crunch when you indulge in the bowl again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well too! They tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use a gluten-free grain like quinoa, the entire dish will be gluten-free.

→ Can I make this bowl vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with grilled vegetables or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.