Mediterranean Greek Chicken Harvest Bowl with Cranberries & Feta
A Wholesome Blend of Sweet, Savory & Fresh Mediterranean Flavors
This Mediterranean Greek Chicken Harvest Bowl is everything you want in a nourishing meal—vibrant, balanced, and full of contrasting textures. Juicy chicken, tangy feta, and tart cranberries meet roasted vegetables, crisp greens, and a light honey-lemon dressing. It’s ideal for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner that feels both hearty and refreshing.
Time: 35 minutes (including roasting time)
Serves: 2
Ingredients
For the Bowl:
2 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced
1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
½ cup dried cranberries
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
1 small apple, diced
1 cup roasted vegetables (sweet potatoes, carrots, or zucchini)
2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or kale)
For the Dressing:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey
Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
Cook the Chicken:
Season chicken breasts with a bit of salt, pepper, and olive oil. Grill, pan-sear, or bake until fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Slice into strips.
Roast the Vegetables:
Toss your chosen vegetables (like diced sweet potatoes, carrots, or zucchini) with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until tender and lightly golden.
Prepare the Base:
In a large bowl, layer cooked quinoa or brown rice as the base. Add mixed greens over it.
Assemble the Bowl:
Top with sliced chicken, roasted vegetables, diced apple, cranberries, and crumbled feta.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
Drizzle & Serve:
Pour the dressing over your harvest bowl and toss gently. Serve immediately or pack for lunch.
Tips & Variations
Cooking the Chicken
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken strips to save time.
Grain Options
Quinoa adds a nice nutty flavor and is gluten-free, but you can swap it with brown rice, farro, or even couscous.
For a low-carb option, use cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage.
Roasted Vegetables
Sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness that balances the tangy feta and cranberries, but feel free to mix in carrots, zucchini, or red bell peppers.
Roast your veggies with a sprinkle of dried oregano or rosemary for a more Mediterranean depth.
Dressing Adjustments
For a creamier version, whisk in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or tahini.
Add a pinch of Dijon mustard for more tang or a splash of balsamic vinegar for richness.
Cheese Swaps
Feta is classic, but goat cheese or shaved Parmesan also work beautifully.
For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese and add some toasted nuts or seeds for texture.
Extra Add-Ins
Try adding sliced avocado, roasted chickpeas, or toasted walnuts for extra protein and crunch.
Pomegranate seeds can replace cranberries if you want something fresher and more vibrant.
Serving Tips
This bowl can be served warm, room temperature, or chilled—great for meal prep or lunch on the go.
Store the dressing separately if you’re packing it ahead, and drizzle right before eating to keep the greens crisp.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
A: Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. Assemble the grains, chicken, roasted vegetables, and toppings in containers, but store the dressing separately. Add the greens and drizzle the dressing right before eating.
Q: What kind of chicken works best?
A: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and easy to slice, but thighs will give you juicier, richer flavor if you prefer.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Definitely. Skip the chicken and add a plant-based protein like chickpeas, lentils, or grilled halloumi.
Q: How do I keep the apples from browning?
A: Toss the diced apple in a little lemon juice before adding it to the bowl—it keeps them crisp and fresh-looking.
Q: Can I use store-bought dressing instead?
A: Of course. A light vinaigrette, balsamic, or Greek-style dressing works great. Homemade just keeps it fresher and allows you to control the sweetness and acidity.
Nutrition
(per serving, serves 2)
Calories: ~480
Protein: 36 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fat: 19 g
Fiber: 6 g
Sugar: 13 g
(Values may vary based on ingredients like oil amount and grain choice.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Greek Chicken Harvest Bowl with Cranberries & Feta is the perfect mix of sweet, savory, and tangy. The combination of roasted vegetables, juicy chicken, and fresh greens makes it satisfying yet light. The cranberries and apples add brightness, while the feta and lemon-honey dressing tie it all together with Mediterranean balance. It’s wholesome, colorful, and full of textures—ideal for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a healthy lunch that doesn’t feel like a compromise.