High Protein Mediterranean Bowl! Only 560 Calories!🍗🍚🥗

High Protein Mediterranean Bowl! Only 560 Calories!🍗🍚🥗 is a easy Mediterranean recipe that serves 2. 450 calories per serving. Recipe by Legend's_Cooking on YouTube.

Prep: 14 min | Cook: 28 min | Total: 52 min

Cost: $7.90 total, $3.95 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Chicken Breast (thinly sliced)
  • 1 tsp Salt (kosher)
  • ½ tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano (Mediterranean seasoning)
  • ½ tsp Garlic Powder (granulated)
  • ½ tsp Paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil (extra‑virgin)
  • 1 Lemon (freshly squeezed juice)
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped)
  • ½ Cucumber (diced)
  • 2 Tomatoes (halved, cherry or grape preferred)
  • ¼ Red Onion (thinly sliced)
  • 1 cup Long Grain Rice (uncooked)
  • 2 cups Low‑Sodium Chicken Broth (for cooking rice)

Instructions

  1. Make the seasoning blend

    In a small bowl combine salt, black pepper, dried oregano, garlic powder, and paprika; stir until evenly mixed.

    Time: PT2M

  2. Season the chicken

    Place the thinly sliced chicken breast in a large mixing bowl, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, add the seasoning blend, and toss to coat evenly.

    Time: PT3M

  3. Prepare the fresh salad

    Dice the cucumber, halve the tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Transfer to a small bowl, add the chopped parsley, drizzle with the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, squeeze the lemon juice over, and toss gently.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Cook the rice

    Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan combine 1 cup rice with 2 cups low‑sodium chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15‑18 minutes until tender. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.

    Time: PT20M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  5. Sear the chicken

    Heat a skillet over medium‑high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then lay the seasoned chicken slices in a single layer. Cook 3‑4 minutes per side until a deep golden‑brown crust forms and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F).

    Time: PT8M

    Temperature: Medium‑high heat

  6. Rest and collect juices

    Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let rest for 2 minutes. While resting, drizzle the pan juices over the chicken to keep it moist and add flavor.

    Time: PT2M

  7. Assemble the bowl

    Divide the cooked rice between two serving bowls. Top each with equal portions of the seared chicken, then add the fresh cucumber‑tomato‑onion salad. Drizzle any remaining pan juices over the top and garnish with extra parsley if desired.

    Time: PT4M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
450
Protein
35 g
Carbohydrates
45 g
Fat
12 g
Fiber
5 g

Dietary info: Gluten‑Free, Dairy‑Free, High‑Protein, Mediterranean‑Diet Friendly

Allergens: None

Last updated: March 12, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

High Protein Mediterranean Bowl! Only 560 Calories!🍗🍚🥗

Recipe by Legend's_Cooking

A lean, protein‑packed Mediterranean chicken bowl that helped the creator shed 40 lb while staying satisfied. Thinly sliced chicken breast is seasoned, seared to a golden crust, and tossed with fresh cucumber, tomato, red onion, lemon‑parsley dressing, and fluffy rice. Ready in about 30 minutes.

EasyMediterraneanServes 2

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
10m
Prep
34m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
54m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$7.90
Total cost
$3.95
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Searing the chicken to develop a golden crust
  • Using the chicken’s resting juices to flavor the bowl
  • Cooking rice in chicken broth for added depth

Safety Warnings

  • Use oven‑mitts when handling the hot skillet
  • Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)
  • Watch the knife while slicing vegetables to avoid cuts

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of the Mediterranean chicken bowl in Mediterranean cuisine?

A

The Mediterranean chicken bowl reflects the region’s emphasis on lean proteins, fresh vegetables, and whole grains, embodying the heart‑healthy principles of the traditional Mediterranean diet that has been celebrated for centuries for its longevity benefits.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Mediterranean chicken bowls across Greece, Turkey, and the Levant?

A

In Greece, the bowl often includes olives, feta, and oregano; Turkish versions may add sumac and bulgur; Levantine styles frequently feature za’atar, tahini drizzle, and tabbouleh instead of plain rice.

cultural
Q

How is a Mediterranean chicken bowl authentically served in its native cultures?

A

Authentically, the bowl is served at room temperature or slightly warm, with the chicken placed on a bed of rice or couscous, surrounded by a colorful salad of cucumber, tomato, and onion, and finished with a lemon‑olive‑oil dressing and fresh herbs.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is the Mediterranean chicken bowl traditionally associated with in Mediterranean cultures?

A

While not tied to a specific holiday, the dish is a staple for everyday family meals, picnics, and summer gatherings where light yet satisfying fare is preferred.

cultural
Q

What makes this Mediterranean chicken bowl special or unique in Mediterranean cuisine?

A

The bowl combines a quick sear that locks in juices with a simple lemon‑parsley dressing, delivering high protein and fresh vegetables in under 30 minutes—perfect for modern, health‑focused lifestyles while staying true to Mediterranean flavor profiles.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making the Mediterranean chicken bowl?

A

Common errors include overcooking the chicken, using too much oil which drowns the fresh salad, and dressing the salad too early causing it to become soggy. Follow the searing time and add the dressing just before assembly for best results.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe sear the chicken on medium‑high heat instead of baking it?

A

Searing on medium‑high heat creates a caramelized crust that adds texture and flavor that baking cannot achieve in the same short time, while still keeping the interior juicy.

technical
Q

Can I make the Mediterranean chicken bowl ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes—you can season and refrigerate the chicken, cook the rice, and prep the salad up to a day ahead. Store each component in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator and assemble just before eating to maintain freshness.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the chicken is done cooking?

A

The chicken should have a deep golden‑brown exterior, be slightly crisp on the edges, and the interior should be opaque with no pink, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Legend's_Cooking specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Legend's_Cooking focuses on quick, health‑oriented meals that emphasize lean proteins, balanced macros, and flavorful Mediterranean‑inspired dishes for fitness‑focused home cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Legend's_Cooking's approach to Mediterranean cooking differ from other Mediterranean cooking channels?

A

Legend's_Cooking prioritizes calorie‑controlled, high‑protein versions of classic Mediterranean dishes, often streamlining traditional recipes to under 30 minutes, whereas many other channels focus on authentic, slower‑cooked or indulgent preparations.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs with Roasted Vegetables and Whipped Feta Sauce

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs with Roasted Vegetables and Whipped Feta Sauce

Juicy air‑fried chicken thighs tossed with colorful bell peppers, carrots, red onion, and mushrooms, all coated in a fragrant herb‑olive oil marinade and finished with a creamy whipped feta‑Greek yogurt sauce. Ready in about two hours including marinating, this Mediterranean‑inspired weeknight dinner is crisp, flavorful, and easy to clean up.

2 hrs 3 min
Serves 2
$13
7 views
MediterraneanMedium
Mediterranean Diet LUNCH: top 3 foods to eat and why

Mediterranean Diet LUNCH: top 3 foods to eat and why

A quick, nutritious Mediterranean lunch bowl packed with fresh vegetables, whole‑grain quinoa, lean grilled chicken, and a simple olive‑oil‑lemon dressing. Perfect for a healthy on‑the‑go meal that balances healthy fats, fiber, and protein.

47 min
Serves 2
$13
2 views
MediterraneanEasy
GREEK LEMON CHICKEN is a must-make, super easy dinner recipe!

GREEK LEMON CHICKEN is a must-make, super easy dinner recipe!

A bright, tangy Greek‑inspired dinner featuring bone‑in chicken thighs marinated in lemon, garlic and herbs, baked until golden, served over fragrant lemon‑herb Basmati rice and crisp air‑fryer green beans. Easy, healthy, and perfect for a weeknight meal.

3 hrs 3 min
Serves 4
$22
9 views
GreekEasy
This Simple Meal Helped Me Lose 60 Pounds (Lazy Stir Fry)

This Simple Meal Helped Me Lose 60 Pounds (Lazy Stir Fry)

A quick, convenient, high‑protein meal designed for weight‑loss goals. Pre‑cooked jasmine or basmati rice, pre‑sliced chicken breast, onion and green cabbage are sautéed in a large non‑stick pan, seasoned with soy sauce and a blend of spices. Each serving provides about 550 calories and 53 g of protein.

25 min
Serves 2
$30
4 views
AmericanEasy
One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken

One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken

A bright, aromatic chicken breast baked with fresh garden herbs, garlic, and lemon. The chicken is first seared for a golden crust, then finished in a 375°F oven with a splash of chicken stock and lemon slices for juicy, flavorful meat. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner served with pasta or a simple salad.

1 hr 3 min
Serves 2
$7
4 views
MediterraneanEasy
Lemon Chicken & Rice

Lemon Chicken & Rice

A simple, flavorful one‑pan dinner where juicy lemon‑marinated chicken is seared, then baked together with rice, stock, and aromatics for a complete meal with minimal cleanup.

1 hr 10 min
Serves 4
$11
3 views
AmericanEasy
Chicken, Spinach, & Feta Orzo Pasta

Chicken, Spinach, & Feta Orzo Pasta

A high‑protein, low‑calorie Mediterranean‑inspired meal‑prep recipe featuring tender chicken, garlicky spinach, fluffy orzo, and tangy feta. Perfect for busy weeks, each serving costs about $2 and packs plenty of flavor.

52 min
Serves 6
$11
6 views
MediterraneanEasy
Lemon Pepper Wings For Weight Loss

Lemon Pepper Wings For Weight Loss

Crispy baked chicken wings tossed in lemon pepper, paprika, sazón, and a hint of hot sauce, then finished with fresh lemon zest and cilantro. This low‑calorie version uses baking powder and a light oil spray to achieve a fried‑like crunch without deep frying, perfect for weight‑loss friendly meals.

1 hr 20 min
Serves 4
$7
2 views
AmericanMedium