There’s something so comforting yet refreshing about a Mediterranean Rice Bowl. It’s a perfect balance of warm, fluffy rice, fresh vegetables, hearty protein, and creamy, tangy sauces. Every bite bursts with bold flavors, from the bright citrus dressing to the rich, spiced seasonings that coat the ingredients. This dish is incredibly versatile—great for a healthy weeknight dinner, meal prepping for busy days, or even serving at gatherings when you want to impress without too much effort.

The best part? You can mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it an easy go-to meal. Whether you love classic Mediterranean flavors like hummus and feta or want to switch things up with different toppings, this bowl is a guaranteed winner. Let’s dive into what makes this Mediterranean Rice Bowl so special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, it keeps you full without feeling heavy.
• Customizable: Swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have in your fridge.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers for an easy grab-and-go lunch during the week.
• Deliciously Flavorful: A mix of herbs, spices, and fresh ingredients makes every bite exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Rice Base:

• 2 cups cooked basmati or jasmine rice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

For the Protein:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chickpeas for a vegetarian option)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of ½ a lemon

For the Fresh Toppings:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup kalamata olives, sliced
• ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup hummus
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 small garlic clove, minced

How to Make Mediterranean Rice Bowl

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by cooking the rice according to the package instructions. While the rice is still warm, fluff it with a fork and stir in olive oil, salt, and cumin for extra flavor. Set it aside as you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Protein

If you’re using chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces and season it with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, coriander, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.

For a vegetarian option, simply sauté chickpeas in olive oil with the same seasonings for 3–4 minutes, until they’re warmed and slightly crispy.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. This dressing ties everything together with its zesty, slightly sweet, and herby flavors.

Step 4: Prepare the Toppings

Chop the cucumbers, slice the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Slice the olives and crumble the feta cheese. Having everything prepped makes assembly a breeze!

Step 5: Assemble Your Mediterranean Rice Bowl

Now comes the fun part—building your bowl! Start with a generous scoop of the warm, seasoned rice. Add the cooked chicken (or chickpeas) on top, then arrange the fresh toppings around it. Drizzle the dressing over everything and finish with a dollop of hummus and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Give your bowl a good mix before digging in, so every bite is packed with flavor. Enjoy it as is, or serve with warm pita bread for an extra Mediterranean touch.

Helpful Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs will make the biggest difference in flavor.
• Make It Vegan: Skip the feta cheese and use dairy-free hummus to keep this dish plant-based.
• Try a Grain Swap: Swap the rice for quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a different texture and added nutrients.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat.
• Double the Dressing: This lemony dressing is so good, you might want extra for salads or other bowls throughout the week!

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2–3 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian Option Available

Notes

• If meal prepping, store the rice, protein, and toppings separately to keep everything fresh.
• Feel free to add more toppings like roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or tzatziki for extra Mediterranean flavors.
• This dish tastes great cold, making it a perfect lunch option for the next day.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 6g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This is a great meal prep option. Just store everything separately and assemble when ready to eat.

What’s the best rice to use for this bowl?

Basmati or jasmine rice work best because they’re light and fluffy. Brown rice is also a great option for extra fiber.

How can I make this dish even more filling?

Add a scoop of hummus, extra protein like grilled shrimp or beef sausage, or a handful of nuts like almonds or pine nuts for extra crunch.

Can I use store-bought dressing?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a good-quality Greek or lemon vinaigrette works well as a substitute.

Storage Instructions

• Fridge: Store all components separately in airtight containers. The rice and protein will last up to 4 days, while the fresh toppings are best consumed within 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm the rice and protein in the microwave for 1–2 minutes before assembling the bowl.
• Freezer: The seasoned rice and cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Mediterranean Rice Bowl, here are a few other recipes you might enjoy:

• Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe
• Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls
• Salmon Rice Bowls – A Flavorful and Satisfying Meal
• Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowls

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Rice Bowl is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the best of fresh, wholesome ingredients together in one satisfying meal. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or prepping ahead for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to make it your own with different toppings and variations!

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