Mediterranean Chickpea Chicken Bowl

Name: Mediterranean Chickpea Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, diced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Exotic Eats

I love creating dishes that not only taste great but are also healthy and satisfying. This Mediterranean Chickpea Chicken Bowl has quickly become one of my favorites. It's packed with protein from the chicken and chickpeas, along with vibrant vegetables that make each bite refreshing. The combination of spices and herbs brings a lovely depth of flavor, making it perfect for any meal. Plus, it's customizable, letting you add your favorite toppings or switch out ingredients, which is something I always appreciate in a recipe.

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2026-02-15T05:13:36.726Z

When I first tried this Mediterranean Chickpea Chicken Bowl, I knew I had stumbled upon a gem. I had some boneless chicken breasts and a can of chickpeas in the pantry, and I wanted to create something flavorful but healthy. The blend of spices – cumin, paprika, and garlic – complements the fresh vegetables beautifully, creating a dish that's as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye.

This bowl has become a go-to for quick weeknight dinners in my household. What impresses me most is how versatile it is; I can easily adjust spices or add different veggies based on what I have available. It’s a great way to use up leftovers and showcase seasonal produce, which keeps every bowl unique!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A perfect balance of flavors from fresh herbs and spices
Nutritious ingredients that fuel your body without sacrificing taste
Easily customizable to fit your dietary preferences or pantry staples

Understanding the Ingredients

The chickpeas in this bowl serve multiple roles; not only do they add protein, but they also contribute fiber and texture that balances the tender chicken. When selecting canned chickpeas, look for those with no added salt for better control over the dish's seasoning. If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook until tender—this could take around 1-2 hours, a great make-ahead step if you want to bulk prep for the week.

Fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion provide a refreshing crunch and a burst of flavor that brightens up the dish. Opt for firm, ripe tomatoes to avoid a mushy texture in the salad. You can also experiment with seasonal veggies, like replacing cucumber with bell peppers or adding radishes for a peppery kick—both variations pair beautifully with the Mediterranean flavors.

Mastering the Cooking Techniques

Cooking the chicken properly ensures it remains juicy and flavorful. When seasoning the chicken, try to let it sit for 10-15 minutes to let the spices penetrate the meat. This small step can significantly enhance the flavor. Additionally, consider using a meat thermometer; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for optimal safety and texture.

When making the dressing, whisking is crucial to achieve an emulsion. This helps the dressing adhere better to the salad ingredients, enhancing their flavors. A tip from my kitchen: if the dressing seems too thick, thin it out with a splash of water or additional lemon juice. Experiment with the mustard type to discover your preferred tanginess; whole grain mustard can add an interesting texture here.

Ingredients

For the Chickpea Chicken Bowl

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, diced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley. Mix in the crumbled feta cheese.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Bowl

Slice the cooked chicken and add it to the salad mixture. Drizzle the dressing over the top, and gently toss to combine.

Serve

Divide the salad into bowls or plates, and enjoy your Mediterranean Chickpea Chicken Bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute grilled vegetables or roasted sweet potatoes for extra flavor. You can also make this dish ahead of time
the flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.

Storing and Meal Prep

This Mediterranean Chickpea Chicken Bowl is ideal for meal prepping! Store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The salad mix (minus the dressing) can last up to four days, while the chicken remains good for up to three days. If using feta cheese, add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy and losing its texture.

In terms of reheating, the chicken can be warmed gently in a skillet over low heat until heated through without drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this may make the chicken rubbery. For a quick last-minute meal, simply toss the chilled ingredients together and enjoy it cold—the flavors meld beautifully, making it quite refreshing.

Creative Serving Ideas

While this bowl is fantastic as is, consider turning it into a wrap by using whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas. Just layer the salad ingredients along with sliced chicken, roll it up tightly, and you have a portable meal ideal for lunches or picnics. This simple shift introduces a delightful crunch and makes it easy to enjoy on the go.

For a heartier meal, serve this dish over a base of roasted quinoa or brown rice. The nutty flavors of these grains complement the Mediterranean essence of the bowl beautifully. You can even elevate it further by adding some olive tapenade or a dollop of hummus on top for that extra layer of flavor and creaminess.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables or extra chickpeas for a vegetarian version.

→ How long will leftovers keep?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this bowl gluten-free?

Yes, all of the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.

→ Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes! You can cook the chicken and prepare the salad ahead of time, storing each component separately until you’re ready to serve.