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Mediterranean Rice Bowl with Grilled Chicken Tawook Skewers

Savor the Flavor: Mediterranean Rice Bowl with Grilled Chicken Tawook Skewers

Enjoy a delightful Mediterranean Rice Bowl with grilled chicken tawook skewers, bursting with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinating Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast boneless thighs can add extra juiciness
  • 1/2 cup Full Fat Greek Yogurt substitute with regular yogurt or tzatziki for a twist
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil avocado oil works as a substitute
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced; garlic powder can be used as a dry alternative
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice lime juice is an effective substitute
  • 1 tablespoon Tomato Paste can omit if using flavored yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika swap with cayenne for an extra kick
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt adjust according to taste if using other salty ingredients
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Italian seasoning can also be used
  • 1/2 teaspoon Fresh Cracked Pepper try white or cayenne pepper for a change
For the Rice Pilaf
  • 1 cup Basmati Rice jasmine rice makes a tasty alternative
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
For the Salad
  • 1 cup Cucumber zucchini is an excellent swap
  • 1 cup Roma or Beefsteak Tomatoes utilize any seasonal tomatoes you have
  • 1/4 cup Mint or Parsley basil can also be a delicious addition
For Serving
  • 2 pieces Naan or Pita Bread any type of flatbread can be used
  • 1 cup Hummus substitute with any bean dip if needed

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Mixing bowl
  • saucepan
  • skewers

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Begin by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized cubes. In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, tomato paste, paprika, salt, oregano, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated, then cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
  2. While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning during grilling.
  3. Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 5–7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is golden and slightly charred.
  4. In a saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the rinsed basmati rice and toast for another minute. Pour in chicken broth, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. After cooking, let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
  5. In a separate bowl, combine diced cucumber and chopped tomatoes with a drizzle of olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt and cracked pepper. Toss gently to mix and let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  6. To create your Mediterranean Rice Bowl, start by dividing the fluffy rice pilaf among bowls. Top each bowl with a skewer of grilled chicken tawook, then a generous portion of the cucumber and tomato salad. Finish each bowl with a dollop of creamy hummus and a piece of warm naan or pita on the side.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For the best flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken tawook skewers overnight. Ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

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