Mediterranean Crispy Rice Chicken Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the savory flavors of seasoned chicken with the freshness of tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, banana peppers, and cucumber. The addition of crispy rice adds a satisfying crunch, while the red wine vinaigrette ties all the components together with a zesty kick. It’s a balanced and delicious meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Crispy Rice:

• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Bowl:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• ½ cup banana peppers, sliced
• 1 cucumber, diced

For the Red Wine Vinaigrette:

• ¼ cup red wine vinegar
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
   • Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
   • Grill or pan-sear the chicken over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
   • Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.

2. Make the Crispy Rice:

   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Spread the cooked rice evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
   • Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the rice is golden brown and crispy.

3. Prepare the Red Wine Vinaigrette:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.

4. Assemble the Bowl:

   • In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, banana peppers, and cucumber.
   • Drizzle with the red wine vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
   • Divide the crispy rice among serving bowls.
   • Top each bowl with the dressed vegetable mixture and sliced chicken.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant.
• Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette for some heat.
• Quinoa Base: Substitute the crispy rice with cooked quinoa for a protein boost.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken and crispy rice in the microwave or on the stovetop before assembling the bowl.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice can be used as a substitute for white rice. Keep in mind that brown rice may require a longer cooking time and will have a chewier texture.

Is it necessary to make the crispy rice?

While the crispy rice adds a delightful texture, you can skip this step and use plain cooked rice if preferred.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the components ahead of time—cook the chicken, prepare the crispy rice, and chop the vegetables. Assemble the bowl just before serving to maintain the freshness and texture.

What can I substitute for Kalamata olives?

Green olives or black olives can be used as alternatives to Kalamata olives.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute feta cheese with goat cheese or shredded mozzarella, depending on your preference.

Conclusion

The Mediterranean Crispy Rice Chicken Bowl is a delightful and nutritious meal that combines the savory flavors of seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and crispy rice, all brought together with a tangy red wine vinaigrette. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences, making it a perfect addition to your meal repertoire.

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