Mediterranean Chicken Bowls with Couscous

Name: Mediterranean Chicken Bowls with Couscous
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup couscous; 1 1/4 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt to taste; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Recipes

Enjoy a delightful and healthy meal with these Mediterranean Chicken Bowls featuring fluffy couscous, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty dressing.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-17T01:06:18.100Z

This Mediterranean Chicken Bowl is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, bringing together marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and couscous in one vibrant dish.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A harmonious blend of spices and fresh ingredients
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile and customizable to suit your taste

      

A Taste of the Mediterranean

These Mediterranean Chicken Bowls are a celebration of flavors inspired by the sun-kissed regions of the Mediterranean. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic herbs, and the richness of olive oil creates a vibrant marinade that infuses the chicken with a delightful taste. Coupled with the fresh crunch of vegetables and the creamy feta cheese, each bite offers a burst of flavor that transports you to the shores of Greece or Italy.

Couscous serves as the perfect base for this dish, providing a light and fluffy texture that complements the savory chicken and fresh veggies. This grain is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you still want to serve something nutritious and satisfying.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Mediterranean Chicken Bowl is packed with health benefits. Chicken breast is a lean protein source, essential for muscle repair and growth. The use of olive oil not only enhances flavor but also provides heart-healthy fats that can help lower cholesterol levels. Additionally, the vibrant vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals, promoting overall health and well-being.

Feta cheese, while rich in flavor, is lower in fat than many other cheese varieties, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy cheese without overindulging. The fresh herbs and spices in the marinade not only elevate the taste but also offer antioxidant properties, making this dish as nutritious as it is delicious.

Customizing Your Bowls

One of the best aspects of these Mediterranean Chicken Bowls is their versatility. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. You can swap out couscous for quinoa or farro for a different texture and flavor. Similarly, add or substitute any seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to keep the dish fresh and exciting.

For those looking to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a kick. You can also experiment with different dressings, such as tahini or yogurt-based sauces, to enhance the flavor profile even more.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

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

For the Couscous

1 cup couscous
1 1/4 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste

For the Bowl

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match your favorite vegetables to make this bowl truly your own!

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

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

Cook the Couscous

In a saucepan, bring chicken broth and salt to a boil. Stir in couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Let it rest, then slice.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Bowls

In serving bowls, layer the couscous, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese. Drizzle with dressing and garnish with parsley.

Enjoy your Mediterranean Chicken Bowls warm or cold!

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

These Mediterranean Chicken Bowls make for excellent meal prep. You can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This not only saves time during the week but also enhances the flavor as the chicken absorbs the marinade. Cooked couscous can also be refrigerated and used within a few days, making it easy to whip up your bowls in no time.

If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The flavors continue to meld, making the leftovers just as delicious, if not more so, the next day. Just be sure to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

These Mediterranean Chicken Bowls are perfect for a casual lunch or a cozy dinner. To elevate your meal, serve them with warm pita bread or a side of hummus for added flavor and texture. A light, crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and tangy dressing, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

For a complete Mediterranean feast, consider adding a simple side salad or a few olives to your meal. This not only enhances the presentation but also offers a variety of flavors and textures that complement the main dish beautifully. Whether for a family gathering or a quiet meal at home, these bowls are sure to impress.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quinoa instead of couscous?

Yes, quinoa is a great substitute and adds extra protein.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! Grilling gives the chicken a lovely smoky flavor.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, these bowls are excellent for meal prep and can be made in advance.