Name: Mediterranean Chicken Bowls with Spicy Red Pepper Feta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 pound ground chicken (or turkey, beef, or lamb); ½ medium to large yellow onion, finely diced; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon turmeric; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 cups cooked rice (jasmine or brown rice recommended); 1 cup roasted chickpeas (Biena brand preferred) or rinsed and drained regular chickpeas; 4 Persian cucumbers, halved lengthwise and sliced; Pickled red onion, as desired; Warm torn pita bread, for scooping; ½ batch of Spicy Roasted Red Pepper Feta Dip (prepared separately); Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling; Extra crumbled feta cheese; Fresh mint leaves; Fresh chopped parsley

There’s nothing quite like the vibrant colors and bold flavors tossed together in these Mediterranean Chicken Bowls with Spicy Red Pepper Feta Recipe. This dish is a delicious whirlwind of spice, freshness, and that creamy feta kick, all coming together in under 30 minutes—making weeknights a whole lot brighter.

The dish is served in a wide, shallow white bowl filled with four distinct layers. The bottom layer is a smooth, bright orange spread covering the bowl base. On top of that, there is a layer of white rice peeking around the edges. Then comes a layer of golden-brown cooked chickpeas and chopped spiced ground pieces with a yellow tint. Scattered over all are fresh, bright green cucumber slices and dark green fresh mint leaves, along with thin, curved bright pink pickled onion strips. Small white crumbles of cheese are sprinkled generously over everything, adding a contrast to the vibrant colors. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Mediterranean Chicken Bowls with Spicy Red Pepper Feta Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Bowls with Spicy Red Pepper Feta Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Mediterranean Chicken Bowls with Spicy Red Pepper Feta Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

From the moment I first tossed these bowls together, I knew they’d become a kitchen staple. The spicy, creamy red pepper feta gives a fresh twist to the everyday chicken bowl, while the blend of warm spices makes every bite a comforting hug. Plus, it comes together fast enough to keep your weeknights stress-free but still packed with flavor.

Quick and Easy: Ready to enjoy in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights or last-minute guests.
Bold Flavors: The spicy red pepper feta adds a creamy, tangy punch that elevates simple chicken and rice into something exciting.
Protein-Packed: Ground chicken seasoned with Mediterranean spices makes this meal hearty and satisfying.
Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients or add your favorite toppings for a bowl that’s just right for you.

Ingredients & Why They Work

The magic in this Mediterranean Chicken Bowls with Spicy Red Pepper Feta Recipe comes from simple, quality ingredients that bring a balance of spice, creaminess, freshness, and texture. Choosing good-quality fresh produce and ripe feta will make all the difference here, so don't skimp if you can help it!

Flat lay of a small mound of raw ground chicken, a small white ceramic bowl filled with extra-virgin olive oil, half a medium to large yellow onion, finely diced, a neat heap of dried spices including cumin, paprika, turmeric, dried oregano, dried thyme, garlic powder, kosher salt, a small pile of freshly ground black peppercorns, a small white ceramic bowl of cooked jasmine rice, roasted chickpeas scattered naturally, four fresh Persian cucumbers halved lengthwise and sliced, thinly sliced bright pink pickled red onions arranged neatly, a roughly torn warm pita bread portion, crumbled fresh white feta cheese, a few fresh vibrant green mint leaves, and a small bunch of chopped fresh parsley, all arranged with realistic proportions and perfect symmetry on simple white ceramic bowls and plates, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Extra-virgin olive oil: The foundation for sautéing the chicken and onions, offering a subtle fruity flavor that's classic in Mediterranean cooking.
Ground chicken: Lean and tender, it soaks up the spices beautifully and keeps the bowls light but filling.
Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked down, making the chicken mixture more flavorful.
Spices (garlic powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, turmeric, thyme, black pepper): This spice blend brings warmth and complexity—think earthy, smoky, and a little herbal all at once.
Rice (jasmine or brown): A fluffy base that balances the creamy feta and spicy chicken perfectly.
Roasted chickpeas: Crunchy protein bonus—adds delightful texture and a nutty flavor.
Persian cucumbers: Crisp and refreshing, they lighten the dish and add a cooling bite.
Pickled red onion: The tangy sharpness cuts through the richness, adding a zingy pop.
Spicy Roasted Red Pepper Feta Dip: The star of the show—creamy, tangy, with a perfect spicy kick.
Fresh herbs (mint, parsley): Freshness that brightens and rounds out every spoonful.
Warm pita bread: Because who wants to eat with a fork alone? Pita makes it hands-on and homey.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love making this Mediterranean Chicken Bowls with Spicy Red Pepper Feta Recipe my own by swapping proteins or amping up the veggies. It’s one of those dishes where you can play around and still end up with something delicious.

Variation: I’ve swapped ground chicken for ground lamb for a richer flavor, and honestly, both versions are incredible. Use what you have or prefer.
Extra Heat: If you like things spicier, I add a pinch of cayenne or extra chili flakes to the feta dip. It wakes up the dish even more!
Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken entirely and toss in extra roasted chickpeas or grilled halloumi for protein.
Grain Swap: Try quinoa or cauliflower rice if you want a low-carb twist or a different texture.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Mediterranean Chicken Bowls with Spicy Red Pepper Feta Recipe

In a blue bowl placed on a white marbled surface, there is a colorful dish with four main layers visible. The bottom layer is an orange sauce with a creamy texture. On top of that, there is a layer of golden chickpeas scattered around. The third layer is made of brownish-yellow cooked crumbled pieces mixed with the chickpeas. The fourth layer shows fresh, sliced green cucumber pieces, bright pink pickled onions, chopped green herbs, white crumbled cheese, and fresh bright green mint leaves scattered evenly. A golden fork rests inside the bowl, and a woman's hand is holding a piece of light brown flatbread on the left edge of the bowl. Small bowls of extra cucumber and green herbs are arranged around the main bowl photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Whip up the Spicy Roasted Red Pepper Feta Dip

I always start by making half a batch of that spicy roasted red pepper feta dip—because it’s the heart of the bowl. It’s creamy with a subtle kick, and you'll want to save the extra for snacking or drizzling later. Making this dip first lets the flavors meld while you cook the chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Spiced Ground Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then toss in the diced onions. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes until they soften and get that lovely golden edge. Push them around the pan, add the ground chicken, and break it apart using a wooden spoon or spatula. Sprinkle on all the spices, salt, and pepper, then stir it all together. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, until the chicken is no longer pink and is perfectly seasoned. Watch closely so it doesn’t dry out—I like to keep it juicy and flavorful.

Step 3: Assemble Your Bowls

In a shallow bowl, dollop a generous scoop of that spicy feta dip on one side. Add a half cup of your cooked rice next to it. Top the rice with some roasted chickpeas and spoon the spiced ground chicken right in the middle. Scatter sliced Persian cucumbers and pickled red onion for freshness and tang. Finish it off with a drizzle of olive oil, sprinkle some crumbled extra feta, and fresh herbs like mint and parsley. Serve it all with warm pita bread—you’ll want to scoop every last bit!

Top Tip

Over time, I’ve learned a few little tricks that make all the difference with this recipe—especially if you want things to come out juicy, balanced, and full of flavor every time.

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on the pan so the ground chicken stays tender and juicy rather than dry.
Toast Your Spices: I sometimes toss the cumin, paprika, and oregano in the oil just for 30 seconds before adding the chicken—it makes the flavor pop even more.
Rest the Dip: Letting the spicy red pepper feta dip sit for 10 minutes after blending helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Warm the Pita: Before serving, warm your pita slightly in a pan or oven to make it soft and perfect for scooping.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Bowls with Spicy Red Pepper Feta Recipe

Mediterranean Chicken Bowls - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I’m all about fresh herbs here—I usually go heavy on mint and parsley because they add a bright lift. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil right at the end gives the dish a silky finish. Sometimes I toss on a few extra crumbles of feta because, well, feta is life.

Side Dishes

For sides, I often keep it simple: a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or even some marinated olives to keep the Mediterranean vibe going. Roasted veggies like zucchini or eggplant work beautifully if you want something warm alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I like to serve these bowls in pretty shallow white bowls so the colors pop. You can also turn it into a DIY bowl bar with all the toppings laid out buffet-style so guests can build their own—that’s always a fun, interactive twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge—keep the spiced chicken separate from the rice and toppings if possible to preserve texture. The feta dip will last a few days and just tastes better after a night or two as the flavors meld more.

Freezing

I usually freeze just the cooked spiced chicken mix if I want to prep in bulk. It freezes well in portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating—don’t freeze the feta dip as it can separate when thawed.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken over medium heat on the stove to keep it juicy, or warm gently in the microwave with a splash of water or olive oil. Rice reheats beautifully too, but fresh cucumbers and pickled onions should always be added last, fresh from the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other meats besides chicken in Mediterranean Chicken Bowls with Spicy Red Pepper Feta Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, beef, or lamb all work wonderfully here. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the meat is properly cooked through. Ground lamb adds a richer flavor if you’re looking to switch things up.

Is the Spicy Red Pepper Feta Dip spicy for everyone?

It has a gentle heat that builds gradually thanks to the roasted red peppers and spices. If you want it milder, you can reduce or omit any extra chili flakes or cayenne. For a spicier kick, just add a pinch more to taste when blending the dip.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap the pita bread for gluten-free pita or skip it entirely. The rest of the bowl ingredients, including rice and chicken, are naturally gluten-free. Always double-check labels on spice blends if you are very sensitive to gluten.

What’s the best rice to use for these Mediterranean Chicken Bowls?

I personally love jasmine rice for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture, but brown rice works great if you want more fiber and a nuttier bite. Both soak up the flavors and provide the perfect base to hold the spiced chicken and creamy feta.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, the Mediterranean Chicken Bowls with Spicy Red Pepper Feta Recipe has quickly become one of my favorites to whip up anytime I want something that feels both comforting and adventurous. It’s that perfect blend of spicy, creamy, fresh, and hearty that hits all the right notes in every bite. I promise you’ll keep coming back to this recipe, whether for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. So grab your skillet and let's get cooking—this one’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!