Description
Easy Chicken Falafel Bowls are a delicious and satisfying Mediterranean-inspired lunch option featuring tender, spiced chicken, crispy falafel, and fresh vegetables served over couscous or rice. This recipe is perfect for meal prep or a quick, healthy meal packed with protein and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Marinade
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Falafel and Base
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen or prepared falafel (cooked according to package directions)
- 2 cups cooked couscous or rice
Vegetables and Toppings
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup hummus
- 1/4 cup tzatziki sauce or garlic yogurt sauce
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly, then let the chicken marinate for 10 to 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken pieces are golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare the base and falafel: While the chicken is cooking, prepare 2 cups of couscous or rice according to package instructions. Warm or cook the frozen or prepared falafel according to the package directions to ensure crispiness and proper heating.
- Assemble the bowls: Divide the cooked couscous or rice evenly among 4 bowls. Top each bowl with cooked chicken pieces, falafel, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and sliced red onion.
- Add sauces and garnish: Place a generous dollop of hummus and tzatziki sauce or garlic yogurt sauce on top of each bowl. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish. Serve with lemon wedges on the side if desired for extra zest.
Notes
- Use store-bought falafel and hummus to save time without sacrificing flavor.
- Substitute quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter or gluten-free base option.
- Add olives or crumbled feta cheese for additional Mediterranean flavor and richness.
- Chicken breasts or thighs can be used depending on preference; thighs will be juicier.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and make excellent meal prep lunches.