Name: Mediterranean Chicken Quinoa Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon all purpose seasoning or mediterranean seasoning; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; ½ cup olive oil; ¼ cup lemon juice (about 1 ½ lemons); 1 teaspoon honey; 1-2 garlic cloves, peeled; 2 teaspoons dijon mustard; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ teaspoon dried parsley; ¼ teaspoon dried basil; 10 ounces cherry tomatoes, sliced in half; 1 large seedless cucumber, thinly sliced into half moons; 8 ounces feta cheese; ¼ cup roughly chopped fresh parsley

Jump to Recipe · Leave a Review

Savory flavors mingle as the sizzling chicken releases its mouthwatering aroma, while tender quinoa awaits to soak it all in. This Mediterranean Chicken Quinoa Bowl brings together the best of hearty protein, earthy grains, and vibrant veggies, making it a delightful dish ready to impress at any meal. It’s that ultimate comfort food you can whip up without fumbling through endless pots and pans.

Pin this for later!

Whether you’re juggling a busy weeknight dinner or craving something fresh and healthy, this bowl is your answer. It’s full of nutritious ingredients, suitable for meal prep, and visually stunning to boot. So why not dive into this colorful mix and savor each bite of this wholesome meal?

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Quinoa Bowl
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Mediterranean Chicken Quinoa Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: This dish comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: Every bite bursts with a medley of Mediterranean spices, tanginess from the dressing, and the creamy feta cheese.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors of cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and quinoa make your bowl a feast for the eyes.
Flexible Serving: Ideal for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. It’s adaptable for various occasions.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily make it gluten-free by ensuring your broth is certified gluten-free, and enjoy it without compromising taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This lean protein keeps the dish hearty and satisfying; feel free to use thighs for more flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for cooking the chicken and adding richness. Extra virgin gives a robust taste.
1 tablespoon all-purpose seasoning or Mediterranean seasoning: A blend of dried herbs enhances flavor; adjust to your liking.
1 cup quinoa: Tri-color quinoa is visually appealing and packed with protein; rinsing removes its natural bitterness.
2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option; it adds depth.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors; sea salt works too.
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A simple seasoning that elevates the taste.
½ cup olive oil: For making the dressing; a high-quality oil is recommended.
¼ cup lemon juice: Brightens the dish; freshly squeezed juice is best.
1 teaspoon honey: Balances the acidity of the lemon; maple syrup can be a good substitute.
1-2 garlic cloves, peeled: Adds depth; roasted garlic can also bring a sweet note.
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: For a slight tang, adding body to the dressing.
½ teaspoon dried oregano: A must-have in Mediterranean cuisine, infusing the dish with aromatic flavors.
¼ teaspoon dried parsley: Complements the other herbs; fresh parsley can also be used.
¼ teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet, aromatic touch.
10 ounces cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they burst with flavor; you can also mix in bell peppers for variety.
1 large, seedless cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch; substitute with radishes for an extra kick.
8 ounces feta cheese: Adds creaminess and a salty punch; try goat cheese for a different flavor.
¼ cup roughly chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the dish and adds color; it’s also a great garnish.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Quinoa Bowl

Prep the Chicken: Start by drying the chicken breasts with a paper towel and placing them on a plate. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with the seasoning. Use your hands to rub the seasoning thoroughly onto the chicken.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and let it rest on a cutting board, allowing it to cool before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
Cook the Quinoa: In the same pan, add 1 cup of rinsed quinoa along with 2 cups of broth, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Bring to a boil, then stir well. Cover and reduce the heat to low, simmering for 10-15 minutes until all liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy.
Make the Dressing: Meanwhile, combine the remaining ½ cup olive oil, ¼ cup lemon juice, 1 teaspoon honey, garlic cloves, 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon oregano, ¼ teaspoon parsley, and ¼ teaspoon basil in a tall glass. Blend with an immersion blender until smooth. Adjust honey for tartness if needed.
Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked quinoa among four shallow bowls. Top each with chopped chicken, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and feta chunks. Drizzle your desired amount of dressing on top, then toss gently with a fork. Finish with fresh chopped parsley.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken and quinoa separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, aim for a gentle microwave or warm it on the stove over low heat until heated through. Be mindful that textures may change slightly; a splash of extra dressing or a squeeze of lemon can refresh flavors beautifully.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid Dry Chicken: Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be golden and no longer pink. Using a meat thermometer can help maintain perfect doneness (165°F).
Timing is Key: Have all your ingredients ready before starting the cooking process to streamline your work.
Flavor Boost: Try marinating the chicken in some lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking for an extra flavor hit.
Make Ahead: You can prep your quinoa in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble the bowls the night of for quick meals.
Crowd-Pleaser: For a bit of kick, consider spicing up the dressing with a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Savoring this Mediterranean Chicken Quinoa Bowl means relishing each flavorful bite filled with nutritious goodness. The way the chicken pairs with the tangy feta and crisp veggies makes it not just a meal but a way to connect with nature’s bounty.

Experimenting with different ingredients or toppings allows for endless variations. Try adding some olives or artichokes for a twist. Whether you’re enjoying it solo, hosting friends, or feeding a family, this dish will always satisfy. Enjoy every delicious spoonful!

Recipe FAQs

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with grilled shrimp, chickpeas for a vegetarian option, or even tofu. Just adjust cooking times accordingly for better results.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, this Mediterranean Chicken Quinoa Bowl is fantastic for meal prep! You can cook everything ahead of time and store the components separately in the fridge. Just combine when you’re ready to eat!

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth. Ensure to check all label ingredients to confirm.

How can I make this bowl vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the chicken and feta cheese. You can substitute the chicken with roasted chickpeas for protein and use a plant-based feta. Adjust the dressing using a vegan honey alternative or maple syrup.

More Dinner Recipes

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

👉 If you make my Mediterranean Chicken Quinoa Bowl recipe, please leave a comment and a star rating — it really helps others discover the recipe.
Follow me on Pinterest for more easy recipes.