Lemon Herb Chicken Mediterranean Bowl (Fresh, Protein-Packed & Perfect for Meal Prep)

This Lemon Herb Chicken Mediterranean Bowl is bright, fresh, and incredibly satisfying — made with juicy lemon-garlic chicken, fluffy herbed rice, crisp vegetables, and creamy tzatziki. The flavors are light yet comforting, striking that perfect balance between nourishing and cozy, much like the fresh simplicity you find in Greek Village Salad (Horiatiki) or a classic Mediterranean Chickpea Power Bowl.

It’s a versatile bowl you’ll want on repeat, whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving a quick, wholesome dinner. Pair it with a side of Warm Homemade Pita Bread, a scoop of Creamy Tzatziki Sauce, or even Crispy Roasted Potatoes to turn it into a complete Mediterranean-inspired spread that feels restaurant-worthy but is easy enough for everyday home cooking.

Why You’ll Love This

• Juicy lemon herb chicken with bright, fresh Mediterranean flavor

• Light yet filling bowl made with protein, grains, and fresh toppings

• Simple ingredients that come together quickly for busy weeknights

• Perfect for meal prep, healthy lunches, or an easy, nourishing dinner

Recipe Card

Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes Servings: 4 bowls

Ingredients

Lemon Herb Chicken

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp paprika

• ¾ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

Herbed Rice Base

• 1 cup long-grain rice or basmati rice

• 2 cups chicken broth or water

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1 tbsp fresh dill or mint (optional)

• Pinch of salt

Mediterranean Bowl Toppings

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup cucumber, diced

• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

• ¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced

• ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese

Optional Sauces

• Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• Lemon tahini sauce or hummus

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and toss until fully coated. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 12 hours for deeper flavor).

2. Cook the Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water. Add rice, broth, olive oil, and a pinch of salt to a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15–18 minutes until tender. Fluff with a fork and stir in parsley and dill. Set aside.

3. Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

4. Assemble the Bowls

Divide the herbed rice between bowls. Top with sliced chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta. Finish with a generous spoonful of tzatziki or your favorite sauce.

Notes & Tips

• Chicken thighs stay extra juicy, but breasts work great too

• Swap rice for quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice

• Add roasted red peppers or chickpeas for extra texture

• This bowl keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days

FAQs

Can I meal prep this bowl? Yes! Store rice, chicken, and veggies separately for the best texture. Add sauce just before serving.

Can I make it dairy-free? Absolutely — skip the feta and use a dairy-free tzatziki or tahini sauce.

Is this cold? Surprisingly yes! It works beautifully as a chilled Mediterranean lunch bowl.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Herb Chicken Mediterranean Bowl is fresh, filling, and endlessly customizable — the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. It’s perfect for busy weeks, healthy eating goals, or when you’re craving something light yet satisfying with bold Mediterranean flavor.