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; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked quinoa; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup tzatziki sauce; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Kitchen Creations

I love creating vibrant and healthy meals that transport me to sun-soaked shores, and this Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl does just that. With its array of colorful vegetables, tender grilled chicken, and a zesty dressing, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Each bite bursts with flavor, and I appreciate how it brings together my favorite Mediterranean ingredients. Whether for a quick lunch or a family dinner, this recipe makes it easy to bring the taste of the Mediterranean to my kitchen.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-02-15T00:09:36.250Z

When I first stumbled upon Mediterranean flavors, I was fascinated by how each ingredient complements the others, creating a harmonious balance. This grilled chicken bowl is inspired by those bright flavors, and I love how simple it is to prepare. Marinating the chicken ahead of time not only infuses it with flavor but also ensures it remains juicy and tender on the grill.

After experimenting with various toppings, I've found that the crunch from fresh bell peppers and the creaminess of tzatziki creates the ultimate combination. Don’t forget to let the grilled chicken rest before slicing – it really makes a difference in texture!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A burst of fresh Mediterranean flavors in every bite
Nutritious and wholesome ingredients for a balanced meal
Easily adaptable to suit your dietary preferences

Getting the Marinade Just Right

The chicken marinade is the heart of this Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl, providing moisture and depth of flavor. Olive oil acts as a tenderizer while preserving the juiciness of the chicken during grilling. When mixing the marinade, ensure all ingredients are fully blended, as this promotes an even coating on the chicken. I like to use fresh lemon juice, as it not only enhances the brightness but also helps the chicken to caramelize perfectly on the grill.

For best results, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, a couple of hours or even overnight in the refrigerator will deepen the flavor. Just keep in mind that over-marinating can sometimes make the chicken too salty, so adjust the seasoning accordingly. This marination process is crucial for achieving that vibrant, Mediterranean taste.

Perfectly Grilling the Chicken

Preheating the grill is essential to achieving those beautiful grill marks and a nice sear on your chicken. Aim for a medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (200°C). Place your marinated chicken breasts on the grill without overcrowding them; this ensures even cooking and allows for proper airflow. Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, but be mindful of the internal temperature—165°F (75°C) is the safe mark for poultry. The chicken should have nice charred edges and a lovely golden color.

After grilling, it's important to let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, preventing your chicken from becoming dry. Be careful not to cut into it too soon; the visual guide is to wait until you can see the juices on the surface without them running out completely when sliced.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowl Assembly

2 cups cooked quinoa
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup tzatziki sauce
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they're well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Assemble the Bowl

In a large bowl, layer cooked quinoa, diced cucumber, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Top with slices of grilled chicken and sprinkle with feta cheese.

Serve with Tzatziki

Drizzle tzatziki sauce over the top and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add or substitute any of your favorite vegetables. Avocado or olives also make great additions to this bowl!

Serving Suggestions

When assembling your Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bowl, consider the texture balance. Combining crisp vegetables like cucumber and bell pepper with the tender chicken and fluffy quinoa creates a satisfying contrast. For added crunch, you might toss in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds. This not only elevates the bowl's flavor but also boosts its nutritional profile.

You can enjoy this bowl warm or cold. If making it ahead for meal prep, store the components separately to keep everything fresh. The chicken can be grilled in batches and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, while quinoa will hold its flavor well for about five days when refrigerated.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is easily adaptable if you're looking for variations. For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi or chickpeas, which similarly absorb the marinade well and provide solid protein content. If you're gluten-free, quinoa is an excellent base; however, you could also try cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that still offers a great texture.

Feel free to mix up the veggies based on what's seasonal or available. Roasted zucchini, artichoke hearts, or kalamata olives can add unique flavors while complimenting the main ingredients. Additionally, if you're a fan of spice, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a drizzle of spicy harissa into the tzatziki for a kick!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will add more flavor and stay juicy during grilling.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or falafel for a delicious vegetarian option.

→ Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for even more flavor.

→ What can I serve on the side?

A simple mixed greens salad or roasted vegetables would pair perfectly with the chicken bowl.