Mediterranean Crispy Rice Chicken Bowl Recipe

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

Chicken:

• 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided, plus more for frying chicken
• 2 teaspoons Greek seasoning, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon banana pepper brine
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup water

Rice Bowls:

• 3 cups cooled cooked rice
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup sliced, quartered English cucumber
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/2 cup banana pepper rings
• 1/2 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine chicken, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of Greek seasoning, paprika, garlic, and salt. Stir until the chicken is well coated and set aside.
3. For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, banana pepper brine, honey, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, black pepper, and water in a small bowl. Set aside.
4. In another bowl, mix the cooled cooked rice with soy sauce, the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1 teaspoon of Greek seasoning. Spread the rice evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake the rice in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until crispy and lightly browned.
6. While the rice is baking, heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, undisturbed, until browned on one side and easy to release from the pan, about 3 to 4 minutes. Continue cooking and stirring for another 4 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and browned on all sides. Add a splash of water to deglaze the pan, stirring until the skillet's bottom is clean. Remove from heat.
7. To assemble the bowls, divide the chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, banana pepper rings, parsley, and olives into 4 bowls. Top each with a portion of crispy rice, crumbled feta cheese, and drizzle with the prepared dressing.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 759
• Total Fat: 46g (59% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 11g (53% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 190mg (63% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1709mg (74% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 46g (17% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (11% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 42g (85% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 33mg (36% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 174mg (13% Daily Value)
• Iron: 5mg (27% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 739mg (16% Daily Value)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind the Mediterranean Crispy Rice Chicken Bowl

The Mediterranean Crispy Rice Chicken Bowl is a modern interpretation of classic Greek flavors fused with a creative approach to rice preparation. Its roots trace back to traditional Mediterranean cuisine, where simple, fresh ingredients like olive oil, feta cheese, olives, and herbs are the backbone of every meal. While bowls as a presentation style are a recent trend, the combination of seasoned chicken with vibrant vegetables and a tangy dressing echoes centuries-old Greek culinary traditions.

Regional Variations and Distinctive Touches

Across the Mediterranean region, each country has its own spin on rice and chicken dishes. In Greece, a similar combination might be served as a layered casserole or baked in a clay pot, emphasizing the "socarrat," the prized crispy layer of rice. In Turkey or Lebanon, the same ingredients might appear with bulgur instead of rice, or with different spice blends such as sumac or Aleppo pepper. What sets this recipe apart is its method of oven-crisping the rice independently and combining it in a bowl format, giving a textural contrast rarely found in traditional preparations.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Unlike a typical Greek chicken or rice dish, this bowl incorporates a full layer of crispy rice rather than mixing it with the chicken while cooking. It is also distinct from a classic paella or pilaf, which generally integrates all ingredients during the cooking process. The crisped rice adds a crunchy texture reminiscent of the Spanish "socarrat," yet it serves as a topping rather than forming the base of a slow-cooked dish. The inclusion of fresh vegetables and a bright vinaigrette dressing also provides a lighter, more balanced flavor profile than many traditional Mediterranean casseroles.

Where Youll Commonly Find It

Today, Mediterranean Crispy Rice Chicken Bowls are popular in both casual eateries and home kitchens. Restaurants specializing in healthy bowls, Greek or Mediterranean cuisine, and modern fusion menus frequently feature versions of this dish. It is commonly served as a lunch or dinner option, particularly in urban cafs and fast-casual restaurants where presentation and texture are key selling points. At home, it is favored for family meals because of its simplicity, customizable ingredients, and balanced nutrition.

Interesting Facts and Culinary Tips

• The crispy rice layer is inspired by "socarrat," the golden crust at the bottom of a paella, which chefs prize for its rich flavor and texture.
• Greek seasoning is a blend of herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary, providing a distinctly aromatic profile that differs from other Mediterranean spice mixes.
• Combining banana pepper brine with a honey-Dijon dressing creates a subtle sweet-and-tangy flavor that balances the richness of the feta cheese and olives.
• Using chicken thighs instead of breasts ensures juiciness and depth of flavor, particularly when paired with the oven-crisped rice.
• This dish demonstrates the versatility of Mediterranean cuisine, showing how classic ingredients can be reimagined in modern, visually appealing bowls.

FAQ about Mediterranean Crispy Rice Chicken Bowl Recipe

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