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Flavorful Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl with Chicken and Hummus

Mediterranean quinoa bowl - featured image

A wholesome and satisfying Mediterranean quinoa bowl featuring tender marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy hummus. Perfect for quick, healthy meals that feel comforting and nourishing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup quinoa (uncooked)
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed and pounded to even thickness
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • About 1/3 cup hummus per serving
  • Optional: crumbled feta cheese for topping
  • Lemon wedges (for garnish)
  • Extra virgin olive oil drizzle (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with 2 cups water or chicken broth and a pinch of salt.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
  4. Let quinoa sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing gently with a fork.
  5. While quinoa cooks, combine minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  6. Add chicken breasts and turn to coat well. Let marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.
  7. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Remove chicken from heat and rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.
  9. Chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and parsley. Toss gently in a bowl to mix flavors.
  10. If red onion is too sharp, soak in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain.
  11. Assemble bowls by placing a base of fluffy quinoa, adding sliced chicken on top, then layering the veggie mix around it.
  12. Add a generous dollop of hummus on the side or center.
  13. Garnish with lemon wedges and a drizzle of olive oil. Add crumbled feta cheese if desired.

Notes

Rinse quinoa well before cooking to reduce bitterness. Rest chicken after cooking to keep it juicy. Use a hot pan to sear chicken for better flavor. Assemble bowls just before serving to keep veggies fresh and hummus creamy. Optional feta cheese adds tangy richness. Can substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, falafel, or roasted chickpeas for vegetarian options.

Nutrition

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