Mediterranean Chicken Couscous Bowl

Name: Mediterranean Chicken Couscous Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup couscous; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Quick Meals Collection

I absolutely love this Mediterranean Chicken Couscous Bowl when I crave a meal that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavors. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy couscous, and vibrant vegetables makes each bite a delightful experience. Not only is it quick to prepare, but the use of fresh herbs and a zesty dressing elevates it to a new level. I often make it for family gatherings, as it appeals to everyone’s taste buds while providing a healthy option. You’ll find that it’s a meal I return to time and again!

Created by

Natalie Evans

Last updated on 2026-02-07T17:57:35.560Z

When I first attempted this Mediterranean Chicken Couscous Bowl, I was amazed at how well the flavors harmonized together. It was essential to marinate the chicken in a mix of bold spices and lemon, which not only enhanced the taste but also kept it incredibly moist. Experimenting with the vegetable toppings allowed me to embrace a colorful presentation that made the dish visually appealing.

If you're looking for variations, try adding grilled vegetables or swapping in quinoa for a gluten-free alternative. I often prepare this bowl ahead of time for meal prep, making it super convenient during busy weeknights!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Juicy chicken infused with Mediterranean spices
Fresh, colorful vegetables that add crunch and nutrition
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

The Importance of Marination

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that infuses it with the vibrant Mediterranean flavors. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano not only enhances the taste but also helps to tenderize the chicken, creating a juicier final product. I recommend letting the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes, but if you have time, extending this to 30–60 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate even deeper.

If you're in a rush, consider using a zip-top bag for marinating; this allows the chicken to be evenly coated while taking up less space in the fridge. A common mistake is to not marinate long enough or to skip it entirely; don’t underestimate this step as it significantly elevates the dish.

Perfecting the Couscous

Cooking couscous may seem straightforward, but timing is crucial to achieving that light, fluffy texture. After bringing the chicken broth to a boil, remember to remove the pot from heat immediately once you stir in the couscous. Let it sit covered for exactly 5 minutes so it has time to absorb the liquid without overcooking, which can lead to a gummy texture. Fluffing with a fork increases the aeration of the couscous, preventing clumping.

If you're looking for alternative grains, quinoa or farro can be excellent substitutes for couscous, providing a nutty flavor and additional texture. You can also cook couscous with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly option that complements the dish beautifully.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

This Mediterranean Chicken Couscous Bowl is extremely versatile, making it easy to adapt based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences. For a protein boost, toss in chickpeas or white beans. If you're craving a crunch, roasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds make a delightful addition. Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even artichokes can be roasted and added for extra flavor.

Serve the bowl with a dollop of tzatziki or hummus for a creamy element that enhances the Mediterranean profile. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days; just remember to store the chicken and vegetables separately from the couscous to maintain texture. For reheating, a light sprinkle of water and a quick microwave will keep everything moist.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious Mediterranean Chicken Couscous Bowl:

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup couscous
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have these ingredients ready for a flavorful meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare the Mediterranean Chicken Couscous Bowl:

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Couscous

In a saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Let it rest before slicing.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer the couscous, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and additional lemon juice.

Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of Mediterranean flavors!

Now you're ready to enjoy a refreshing Mediterranean meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, like zucchini or bell peppers, to make this dish even more delightful.

Ingredient Insights

Using quality ingredients is key to the success of this dish. Opt for fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes and a good-quality feta cheese, as they play significant roles in providing flavor and texture. Feta cheese adds a tangy contrast to the dish that complements the richness of the chicken and olives. If you cannot find Kalamata olives, green olives can be used as a substitute, although their taste will be milder.

The fresh parsley garnish is not just for show; it adds a bright, peppery flavor that balances the dish. If parsley isn’t available, fresh mint or basil can offer a refreshing twist.

Make Ahead Tips

If you're planning to serve this Mediterranean Chicken Couscous Bowl for a gathering, you can prepare many components ahead of time. Marinate the chicken the night before for maximum flavor infusion. The couscous can also be cooked in advance and stored in the fridge. Just be sure to fluff it up with a fork before serving to reinvigorate its texture.

Chopped vegetables can be prepped and stored in airtight containers for up to two days, making assembling the final bowl quick and effortless. This meal not only comes together swiftly, but it can also be served warm or cold, making it perfect for a picnic or lunch box.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quinoa instead of couscous?

Absolutely! Quinoa is a great gluten-free alternative and works beautifully in this recipe.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?

Yes! This bowl can be made ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week.

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

It's best to thaw the chicken first for even cooking, but you can use frozen if needed; just ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature.