Mediterranean Chicken Couscous Bowl

Name: Mediterranean Chicken Couscous Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups couscous; 1 pound chicken breast, boneless and skinless; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lemon, juiced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Favorite World Food Recipes

I absolutely love creating vibrant and flavorful dishes that celebrate the Mediterranean way of eating. This Mediterranean Chicken Couscous Bowl became a favorite in my kitchen, thanks to its easy preparation and wholesome ingredients. The tender chicken marinated in zesty spices, paired with fluffy couscous and fresh veggies, makes it a delightful meal. Plus, it’s a perfect one-bowl dish that’s great for meal prep or serving guests. I can’t wait for you to try this delicious blend of textures and flavors!

Created by

Florence Keaton

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:29:35.926Z

When I first stumbled upon the Mediterranean diet, I was intrigued by the balance of flavors and textures. One day, I decided to make a Mediterranean Chicken Couscous Bowl, combining fresh vegetables and a delicious marinade. The secret lies in letting the chicken marinate long enough to soak in the spices, which enhances the flavor dramatically.

As I prepared the couscous, I found that adding a bit of lemon juice made all the difference, offering a refreshing zing that complements the sweetness of the roasted vegetables. Every bite transports me back to sun-drenched days, enjoying meals outdoors with friends.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors that invigorate your taste buds
Easy to customize with your favorite seasonal vegetables
Perfectly balanced with protein, carbs, and healthy fats

The Art of Marinating Chicken

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that elevates the flavor profile of this dish. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a zesty kick. Aim to let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, but for a more intense flavor, consider refrigerating it for a couple of hours. The acid from the lemon juice will work to break down the fibers in the chicken, making it juicy and easy to bite through.

If you're short on time, you can always adjust the marinating period. Even a quick 15-minute soak will impart some flavor, but remember, the longer the better. Avoid marinating the chicken for more than a few hours; the acids can make the texture mushy if left too long. For a twist, you might try adding yogurt to the marinade for extra tenderness and a slightly tangy flavor.

Couscous Cooking Tips

Cooking couscous correctly is essential for achieving that fluffy texture that's pleasing to the palate. Use a 1:1 ratio of water to couscous, and always bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the couscous. Once you stir it in, remove it from the heat immediately and cover it. Letting it sit for the recommended five minutes will allow the grains to absorb the water fully, resulting in a light and airy dish. Fluffing it with a fork afterward will help separate any clumps.

If you want to add an extra layer of flavor to your couscous, try substituting chicken broth for the water or tossing in a pinch of salt or a splash of olive oil before cooking. You could also enhance the flavor by incorporating herbs or spices into the water, such as a bay leaf or a sprig of thyme, giving the couscous an aromatic boost.

Serving and Storing Your Couscous Bowl

When it comes to serving this beautiful Mediterranean Chicken Couscous Bowl, presentation matters. Arrange the sliced chicken over the vibrant medley of veggies and couscous, and finish with a sprinkle of crumbled feta and chopped fresh parsley. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also gives guests a hint of the flavorful profiles waiting to be explored. You can serve it warm, at room temperature, or chilled depending on your preference.

If you're looking to meal prep, this dish stores well in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Just be sure to keep the components separate until you're ready to eat—especially the feta and herbs. For reheating, you can microwave individual portions to your desired temperature, or for a refreshingly cold option, add a dash of olive oil and lemon juice to rejuvenate the flavors.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started on this delicious bowl:

Ingredients for Chicken and Couscous

2 cups couscous
1 pound chicken breast, boneless and skinless
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lemon, juiced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all these delicious ingredients for the best flavors!

Instructions

Follow these steps to assemble your Mediterranean Chicken Couscous Bowl:

Prepare the Chicken Marinade

In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add the chicken breast and coat well. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Couscous

In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add couscous, stir, and remove from heat. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes until fluffy. Fluff with a fork and add a squeeze of lemon juice.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Let rest for a few minutes, then slice.

Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and olives. Toss lightly and add sliced chicken on top.

Serve and Enjoy

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Chicken Couscous Bowl!

This bowl is a delightful meal any time of day!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil or mint to the couscous.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap out the chicken for other proteins like shrimp, chickpeas, or tofu to cater to different dietary preferences. Each option will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the dish. If using tofu, I recommend pressing it to remove excess moisture, then marinating it in a similar mixture as the chicken for the best taste. This flexibility makes the recipe adaptable for various diets, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.

For the veggies, consider using whatever you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even roasted eggplant would add a delightful twist. Just make sure that any additional veggies can cook quickly or are pre-cooked to keep the texture consistent. This is a great way to utilize seasonal produce or leftovers that might otherwise go to waste.

Making it Your Own

The beauty of the Mediterranean Chicken Couscous Bowl lies in its versatility. You can play with different spices and herbs: for example, adding a pinch of za'atar or oregano could introduce an even deeper Mediterranean flavor. You could also try varying the cheese; goat cheese or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a vegan option would complement the dish beautifully.

Feel free to tweak the ratios of ingredients to suit your taste. If you are a fan of olives, add more for an extra briny punch. Not a fan of feta? Substitute with a drizzle of tahini sauce for creaminess without the cheese. Personalizing the dish allows you to enjoy it exactly how you like it while still embracing the essence of Mediterranean cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and couscous in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.

→ What can I substitute for couscous?

You can use quinoa, bulgur wheat, or even brown rice as a nutritious alternative.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This bowl is perfect for meal prep, keeping well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the chicken with grilled vegetables or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option.