Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Herb Yogurt Sauce
Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl with Herb Yogurt Sauce
This rice bowl is loaded with juicy grilled chicken, fluffy rice, roasted or fresh veggies, and topped with a creamy herb yogurt sauce. It’s a balanced meal with protein, carbs, and freshness, all brought together by Mediterranean herbs and garlic.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45–60 minutes
Marinating time: 30 min–2 hrs
Servings:4
Ingredients
For the grilled chicken:
500g (1 lb) boneless chicken thighs or breasts
3 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp cumin
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
For the rice:
1 ½ cups basmati or jasmine rice
3 cups water or chicken broth
1 tbsp olive oil
Pinch of salt
For the herb yogurt sauce:
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, finely minced or grated
2 tbsp fresh dill, parsley, or cilantro (chopped)
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt & pepper, to taste
For the veggies (roasted or fresh):
1 cup cucumber slices
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup roasted zucchini or bell peppers (optional)
½ cup shredded carrots or red cabbage
Optional toppings:
Fresh parsley or cilantro
Crumbled feta cheese
Lemon wedges
Toasted pine nuts or almonds
Instructions
Marinate the chicken:
In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken, coat well, cover, and refrigerate 30 min–2 hrs.
Cook the rice:
Rinse rice until water runs clear.
In a pot, combine rice, water/broth, olive oil, and salt. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer 15 minutes until fluffy.
Grill the chicken:
Heat grill or grill pan over medium-high.
Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through and charred. Rest 5 minutes, then slice.
Make the herb yogurt sauce:
Mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready to use.
Assemble the bowls:
Add rice as the base.
Top with grilled chicken slices and veggies.
Drizzle with herb yogurt sauce.
Garnish with feta, herbs, or nuts if desired.
Notes & Tips
Use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier base.
The yogurt sauce also makes a great dip for pita bread on the side.
If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the chicken at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes.
Add olives or pickled onions for extra Mediterranean flair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I meal prep this?
Yes—store rice, chicken, and veggies separately. Add yogurt sauce just before serving.
Q: What other herbs can I use in the yogurt sauce?
Mint, basil, or chives also work beautifully.
Q: Can I make this spicy?
Yes—add a pinch of chili flakes to the chicken marinade or blend some harissa into the yogurt sauce.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~520 kcal
Protein: 38g
Fat: 18g
Carbs: 52g
Fiber: 4g