Mediterranean Chicken Bowls with Couscous
Highlighted under: Festive Favorites
Enjoy a vibrant dish full of flavors with these Mediterranean Chicken Bowls featuring fluffy couscous and fresh vegetables.
This Mediterranean Chicken Bowl is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy couscous, and fresh vegetables makes for a nutritious and delicious meal that everyone will love!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Fresh and vibrant Mediterranean flavors in every bite
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- Healthy and balanced meal with protein and vegetables
A Taste of the Mediterranean
Mediterranean cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and healthy cooking methods. This Mediterranean Chicken Bowl is a perfect representation of this rich culinary tradition. The combination of juicy chicken, fluffy couscous, and a colorful array of vegetables creates a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Each bite transports you to sun-kissed shores where fresh ingredients are celebrated.
The use of olive oil, garlic, and paprika in this recipe highlights the aromatic herbs and spices that are staples in Mediterranean cooking. These ingredients not only enhance the flavors of the chicken but also provide numerous health benefits. Olive oil is a source of healthy fats, while garlic has been praised for its heart health properties. Together, they create a delectable foundation for this dish.
Quick and Easy Meal Prep
One of the standout features of this Mediterranean Chicken Bowl is how quick and easy it is to prepare. With a total cook time of under 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want to serve something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. The simplicity of the preparation allows you to focus on enjoying a wholesome meal with your loved ones.
Additionally, the use of couscous as a base is a fantastic choice for a quick meal. Couscous cooks in just minutes and absorbs flavors beautifully, making it a versatile side dish. By preparing this meal, you can easily whip up a healthy dinner that will satisfy both your hunger and your taste buds without the stress of complicated cooking.
Customizable and Versatile
One of the best aspects of the Mediterranean Chicken Bowl is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. If you're looking to add more vegetables, consider incorporating bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Likewise, for those who prefer other proteins, grilled shrimp or tofu can be excellent substitutes for chicken.
Additionally, this recipe serves as a wonderful base for meal prep. You can make a larger batch and store the components separately in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. With its adaptability, this Mediterranean Chicken Bowl can be a staple in your cooking repertoire, allowing you to enjoy it in different ways.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Couscous
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
For the Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- Feta cheese for topping
Mix and match your favorite vegetables to customize your bowl!
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with the mixture. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
Cook the Couscous
In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add couscous, remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and mix in lemon juice and parsley.
Assemble the Bowls
Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of a serving of couscous. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives. Top with feta cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Chicken Bowls!
Nutritional Benefits
This Mediterranean Chicken Bowl is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The chicken provides a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Coupled with the fresh vegetables, you get a variety of vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health.
Couscous, made from durum wheat, is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy to fuel your day. When paired with the fiber-rich vegetables, this meal ensures you feel satisfied and nourished. It's a balanced plate that supports both your culinary cravings and your health goals.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining freshness. Store the chicken, couscous, and vegetables in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This dish can be enjoyed for up to three days after cooking, making it perfect for meal prep or planned leftovers.
When it's time to reheat, simply place the components in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through. You can also enjoy these ingredients cold in a salad format for a refreshing option. This flexibility makes the Mediterranean Chicken Bowl a great choice for any meal occasion.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use quinoa instead of couscous?
Yes, quinoa is a great substitute and adds more protein.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-frying?
Absolutely! Grilling will add a nice smoky flavor.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute couscous with gluten-free grains like rice or quinoa.
Mediterranean Chicken Bowls with Couscous
Enjoy a vibrant dish full of flavors with these Mediterranean Chicken Bowls featuring fluffy couscous and fresh vegetables.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Festive Favorites
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Couscous
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
For the Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- Feta cheese for topping
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with the mixture. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add couscous, remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and mix in lemon juice and parsley.
Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of a serving of couscous. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives. Top with feta cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g