Dive into the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this incredibly This dish is a celebration of fresh ingredients, combining tender grilled chicken, fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and a creamy, tangy homemade tzatziki. It's a wholesome, satisfying meal that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch.
📜 Ingredients
2 (6oz / 170g) boneless, skinless halal chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil (for chicken)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
1 cup uncooked Basmati rice
2 cups water
1/2 English cucumber, thinly sliced
1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
1/2 cup pitted green olives
1 (15oz / 425g) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
Fresh dill, for garnish
For the Creamy Tzatziki:
1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
1/4 English cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
1 small clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil (for tzatziki)
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Pinch of salt
Pinch of black pepper
📝 Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture generously over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Grill the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken on the grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
- Cook the Rice: Rinse the Basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
- Make the Tzatziki: While the rice cooks, prepare the tzatziki. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (make sure to squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible to prevent a watery sauce), minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, 1 tablespoon olive oil, fresh lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir all ingredients well until thoroughly combined.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked Basmati rice evenly between two serving bowls. Artfully arrange the sliced grilled chicken, thinly sliced cucumber, Kalamata olives, green olives, and rinsed chickpeas around the rice in each bowl.
- Garnish and Serve: Spoon a generous dollop of the creamy homemade tzatziki into the center of each bowl. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil, if desired, and sprinkle generously with fresh dill. Serve your beautiful Mediterranean bowls immediately and enjoy!
💡 Chef's Tips
- Make Ahead Magic: This bowl is fantastic for meal prep! You can grill the chicken and cook the rice a day or two in advance. Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and assemble your fresh bowls just before serving. The tzatziki also tastes even better when the flavors have a little time to meld.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other Mediterranean-inspired vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even roasted zucchini for extra color and nutrients.
