Mediterranean Grilled Chicken with Rice Avocado Corn & Lemon
This hearty Mediterranean-style bowl features juicy grilled lemon herb chicken, fluffy rice, creamy avocado, sweet corn, and a bright lemon-olive oil drizzle. It’s full of color, texture, and nutrients — ideal for meal prep or serving fresh off the grill.
⏱️ Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Grilled Chicken:
1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Bowls:
2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or lemon-herb rice)
1 cup corn (grilled or canned, drained)
2 ripe avocados, sliced or diced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
2 tbsp chopped parsley or mint
Lemon-Olive Oil Drizzle (optional but delicious):
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional for tang)
Salt & black pepper
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl or bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice/zest, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken and marinate for 15–30 minutes (up to overnight for more flavor).
2. Grill the Chicken:
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
Let rest 5 minutes, then slice.
3. Prepare the Bowls:
In each bowl, add a scoop of rice, then layer on:
Grilled chicken slices
Corn
Avocado
Optional tomatoes and red onion
4. Drizzle & Finish:
Whisk the lemon-olive oil drizzle ingredients together.
Drizzle over the bowls and garnish with parsley or mint.
Notes & Tips:
For extra flavor: Add crumbled feta or a spoonful of tzatziki.
Add greens: Serve over arugula or spinach if you want extra freshness.
Spicy twist: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or a spoonful of harissa to the drizzle.
Meal prep: Keep rice, chicken, and toppings separate and assemble fresh
❓ frequently asked questions FAQs
Q: Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes! Just reheat and season with a little lemon juice, olive oil, and oregano for flavor.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: It already is! Just skip feta or yogurt toppings if adding.
Q: What kind of rice works best?
A: Jasmine or brown rice is great, or try lemon-herb rice or cauliflower rice for low-carb.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Yes! Use grilled halloumi, roasted chickpeas, or marinated tofu instead of chicken.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 530
Protein: 38g
Carbs: 34g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 420mg