The aroma of sizzling skewers fills the air, beckoning you to the grill as anticipation bubbles up inside. Welcome to the world of Mediterranean Rice Bowls, where each bite transports you to a sun-soaked cafe by the coast. This recipe features juicy grilled chicken tawook, nestled atop aromatic basmati rice pilaf, and vibrant cucumber-tomato salad, creating a colorful plate that’s not just a feast for the eyes. Perfect for meal prep, it’s a breeze to assemble and store, making it the ideal solution for those busy weeknights or satisfying lunches on-the-go. The best part? You can indulge in restaurant-inspired flavors right at home without any hassle. Are you ready to escape to the Mediterranean with every delicious spoonful?

Why Is This Mediterranean Rice Bowl Special?

Ease of Preparation: This recipe is a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Fresh, Vibrant Ingredients: The combination of grilled chicken tawook, fluffy basmati rice, and crisp cucumbers and tomatoes creates a colorful, eye-catching dish.

Meal Prep Friendly: With every element easily stored separately, you can make this ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week, just like my Fajita Rice Bowls.

Travel Through Flavor: Each bite transports you straight to the Mediterranean, delivering a taste adventure that’s rich and satisfying.

Healthy Indulgence: Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, this dish proves that healthy meals can also be delicious and satisfying, similar to the delightful Autumn Wild Rice you love.

Mediterranean Rice Bowl Ingredients

For the Chicken

Chicken Breast – Main protein source that’s flavorful and lean; boneless, skinless thighs can be used for more moisture.
Full Fat Greek Yogurt – Forms the marinade base for tenderness and moisture; a dairy-free yogurt can suffice if needed.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and aids in cooking; this oil enhances the authentic Mediterranean flavor.
Garlic – Provides aromatic depth; fresh garlic is best for optimal flavor, with garlic powder as a good backup.
Lemon Juice – Offers acidity to balance richness and tenderize chicken; fresh lemon juice is ideal, but bottled is okay in a pinch.
Tomato Paste – Contributes umami and depth; can be swapped with tomato sauce if that’s what you have on hand.
Spices (Paprika, Kosher Salt, Dried Oregano/Thyme) – Create flavor complexity; adjust as desired, and consider fresh herbs during the season.

For the Rice

Basmati Rice – Chosen for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture; jasmine or long-grain rice can substitute in a pinch.
Chicken Broth – Enhances flavor when cooking rice; opt for homemade or low-sodium store-bought for the best taste.

For the Salad

Cucumber & Tomatoes – Fresh vegetables that add acidity and crunch; cherry tomatoes can be replaced with seasonal berries for a twist.
Hummus – Serves as a creamy dip, elevating the Mediterranean rice bowl’s experience; vegan options are available or try homemade.

For Serving

Naan or Pita Bread – Perfect for scooping and complementing the dish; gluten-free alternatives can be used as necessary.

Indulge in the rich flavors of this Mediterranean rice bowl, where every ingredient plays its part in creating satisfaction and delight in every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mediterranean Rice Bowl

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breast into 1-inch cubes. In a medium bowl, combine full-fat Greek yogurt, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, tomato paste, paprika, kosher salt, and dried oregano. Mix well before adding the chicken cubes, ensuring they are fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Grill Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 375°F (190°C). Once heated, skewer the marinated chicken pieces onto soaked wooden skewers for easier handling. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 3: Cook Rice Pilaf
In a large saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, stirring frequently, about 3-4 minutes. Next, stir in the basmati rice, allowing it to toast for an additional 2-3 minutes, then pour in chicken broth and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Afterward, allow it to sit covered for 5-10 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork.

Step 4: Prepare Salad
While the rice is cooking, prepare your fresh salad by chopping cucumber and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped vegetables with some fresh mint or parsley, drizzling with extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of salt to taste. Toss the salad gently until everything is evenly coated, and set it aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Assemble Bowls
To assemble your Mediterranean Rice Bowls, divide the fluffy basmati rice among four serving bowls. Top each bowl with grilled chicken skewers, followed by a generous portion of the cucumber and tomato salad. For added creaminess, serve with a dollop of hummus on the side, along with warm naan or pita bread for a delightful finishing touch.

Make Ahead Options

These Mediterranean Rice Bowls with Grilled Chicken Tawook Skewers are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, which intensifies the flavors. Additionally, prepare the rice pilaf and salad components up to 3 days ahead; just store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. To ensure everything stays delicious, avoid mixing the salad until just before serving, preventing the cucumbers and tomatoes from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply grill the marinated chicken and assemble each bowl with rice, salad, and a dollop of hummus for an effortless, satisfying meal!

What to Serve with Grilled Chicken Tawook Mediterranean Rice Bowls

There’s nothing like creating a hearty experience to elevate your Mediterranean rice bowl meal.

Creamy Tzatziki: This chilled yogurt sauce adds a cool and refreshing element, perfectly complementing the grilled chicken and spices.
Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of seasonal vegetables brings a warm, caramelized sweetness that balances the vibrant flavors of your rice bowl.
Pita Chips: Crunchy and fun to eat, they add texture to your meal while perfectly scooping up that creamy hummus.
Feta Cheese Crumbles: Adding a sprinkle of feta introduces a salty, tangy contrast to the warm and juicy grilled chicken.
Homemade Lemonade: A zesty, refreshing drink that pairs beautifully, balancing the richness with its bright citrus notes.
Baklava: This delightful dessert, with its flaky pastry and sweet honey syrup, serves as a delectable finish to your Mediterranean feast.

Expert Tips for Mediterranean Rice Bowl

Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate overnight to maximize flavor and tenderness—it’s worth the wait!
Skewer Safety: Use soaked wooden skewers to prevent burning while grilling, ensuring your chicken stays perfectly cooked without that charred taste.
Don’t Rush the Rice: Always let the rice sit covered after cooking; this helps it become fluffy and prevents clumping, giving you that classic Mediterranean rice bowl texture.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning in your pilaf based on the saltiness of your chicken broth. Remember, a pinch of salt can elevate your dish beautifully!
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh vegetables and herbs for the salad enhances the overall flavor and nutrition of your Mediterranean rice bowl, giving it that restaurant-inspired touch.

How to Store and Freeze Mediterranean Rice Bowl

Fridge: Store individual components such as grilled chicken, rice, and salad in airtight containers for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken and rice separately in airtight bags for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen items in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat chicken and rice in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, ensuring they retain their delicious texture.

Assembly: Keep the salad separate until serving to maintain its crispness and freshness, allowing your Mediterranean rice bowl to come together beautifully for a satisfying meal.

Mediterranean Rice Bowl Variations

Feel free to get creative with this Mediterranean rice bowl recipe; the flavor possibilities are endless!

Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with marinated tofu, which absorbs flavors beautifully and mimics the original protein texture.
Couscous Twist: Swap the basmati rice for couscous to give your dish a delightful change in texture that cooks even faster.
Quinoa Alternative: Utilize quinoa instead of rice for a nutritious grain option loaded with protein, perfect for health-conscious cooks.
Grilled Veggies: Substitute the cucumber salad with a mix of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for added depth and a smoky flavor essence.
Zesty Marinade: Enhance the marinade by adding a teaspoon of harissa or chili paste for a gentle heat that complements the dish’s Mediterranean roots.
Creamy Avocado: Top your bowls with sliced avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats, a delightful contrast to the grilled chicken.
Lemon Zest Boost: Add a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest on the final dish for a bright and refreshing kick that elevates all the flavors beautifully.
Warm Spices: Elevate the rice by incorporating cumin or cinnamon into the cooking process, adding a layer of warmth characteristic of traditional Mediterranean cuisine.

No matter your preferences, these variations will keep your meals exciting and satisfying. And if you enjoy exploring different flavors, don’t miss out on trying my Black Beans and Rice with Sausage or perhaps a comforting Dumpling Ramen Bowl for your next culinary adventure!

Mediterranean Rice Bowl with Grilled Chicken Tawook Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for the Mediterranean rice bowl?
Absolutely! I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean and flavorful option. However, if you prefer juicier meat, boneless, skinless thighs are excellent too, adding more moisture and tenderness.

How should I store leftover components of the Mediterranean rice bowl?
Very simply! Store each component in separate airtight containers. The grilled chicken and rice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, while the salad should ideally be kept separate and enjoyed within 1-2 days for maximum freshness.

Can I freeze the Mediterranean rice bowl?
Absolutely! For freezing, cool the grilled chicken and rice completely before placing them in airtight freezer bags. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through for the best texture.

What should I do if my rice is sticky after cooking?
Don’t worry; it happens sometimes! If your rice sticks together, it may be due to not rinsing it properly before cooking. Next time, rinse your basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear—this removes excess starch. If it’s already cooked, fluff the rice gently with a fork, and if it’s too clumpy, add a splash of water while reheating to help separate the grains.

Are there any dietary considerations for this Mediterranean rice bowl?
For a nut-free option, this recipe is perfect as it contains no nuts. If you or someone you’re serving has allergies or dietary preferences, feel free to swap Greek yogurt with a dairy-free substitute, and use gluten-free naan or pita bread. This flexibility makes it a versatile meal suitable for varying dietary needs!