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This Greek-inspired chicken rice bowl brings together juicy chicken breast, fluffy brown rice, fresh veggies, and creamy sauces for a balanced, vibrant meal that is as satisfying as it is colorful. It’s a perfect dish when you want something wholesome yet bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
I first made this during a casual weekend lunch with friends and it quickly became a favorite that everyone asks me to prepare whenever they visit. The fresh veggies and creamy tzatziki make it feel like a special occasion even on ordinary days.
Ingredients
- One cup brown rice uncooked: provides a nutty, chewy base and whole grain nutrition
- Two pounds chicken breast: lean protein that stays juicy after pan cooking
- Two small heads of romaine lettuce chopped: adds crunch and freshness
- One cup kalamata olives: bring briny depth and classic Greek flavor
- Two cups cherry tomatoes halved: give sweetness and a juicy pop
- Half a cup hummus: creamy texture and subtle garlic flavor that ties the bowl together
- Half a cup tzatziki: cool cucumber yogurt sauce perfect for balance
- Quarter purple onion thinly sliced optional: adds mild sharpness and color contrast
- Half a cup Greek dressing: citrusy and herby finish with olive oil base
- Olive oil for drizzling: adds richness and helps marry the flavors
- A pinch paprika: warming spice that enhances the chicken
- Sea salt as needed: essential for seasoning the components well
- One lemon cut into four wedges: for squeezing freshness at the end
Ingredients
When choosing ingredients I always opt for fresh, firm cherry tomatoes and the highest quality extra virgin olive oil I can find since it really impacts the flavor. Using good Greek dressing or making your own with lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and olive oil will elevate the dish further.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Brown Rice:
- Cook one cup of brown rice following the package instructions until tender but still slightly chewy. Once cooked, let it cool at room temperature or in the fridge to avoid wilting the greens in the bowl later.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper and drizzle olive oil evenly on both sides. Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the chicken for six to eight minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the outside is golden. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
- Prep the Fresh Ingredients:
- Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the purple onion thinly if using. Have your kalamata olives ready to go, pitted if preferred.
- Assemble the Bowl:
- Start by placing a base layer of cooled brown rice into individual bowls. Next add chopped romaine lettuce evenly over the rice. Arrange halved tomatoes, kalamata olives, and sliced chicken breast neatly over the greens.
- Add the Finishing Touches:
- Spoon half a cup each of hummus and tzatziki on top in dollops. Lightly drizzle olive oil and the Greek dressing over everything. Add a wedge of lemon on the side to squeeze just before eating for a zesty brightness.
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The kalamata olives are my favorite ingredient here. Their salty, tangy bite pairs so well with creamy tzatziki and smooth hummus. One memorable family gathering, my aunt brought a homemade version of this bowl and everyone was hooked on how the ingredients complemented each other so effortlessly.
Storage tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keep the rice and chicken separate if freezing to preserve texture, then add fresh veggies and sauces when ready to eat to keep everything crisp and flavorful.
Ingredient substitutions
If brown rice is not available, you can substitute with quinoa or white rice for a different texture. For the chicken, turkey breast works well too. If you do not have Greek dressing, a simple mix of lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and dried oregano makes an excellent homemade alternative.
Serving suggestions
Serve this bowl with pita bread on the side or add crumbled feta cheese for extra creaminess. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or mint can also brighten the flavors and add a fresh herbal note.
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Cultural context
This recipe draws on traditional Greek ingredients known for their nutritious benefits and bold flavors. Meals like this are part of the Mediterranean diet, celebrated for its heart health benefits and emphasis on fresh produce, lean protein, and olive oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of rice works best for this bowl?
Brown rice is ideal for its nutty flavor and chewy texture, which complements the chicken and fresh veggies well.
- → Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used as an alternative for a juicier texture.
- → How can I boost the flavor of the tzatziki and hummus toppings?
Adding freshly chopped herbs like dill or mint to tzatziki and a drizzle of olive oil on hummus enhances their Mediterranean notes.
- → Is it necessary to slice the chicken before assembling?
Slicing the chicken ensures even distribution and easier eating, but you can serve it whole if preferred.
- → How should leftovers be stored for best freshness?
Store rice and chicken separately in airtight containers in the fridge and add fresh veggies and toppings when ready to serve.