Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken
If you’re craving a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, the Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken is the perfect choice. This vibrant bowl is loaded with fresh vegetables, protein-rich chicken, and wholesome grains, making it a satisfying meal for lunch or dinner. The balance of flavors and textures will transport you straight to the Mediterranean coast, all while being easy to prepare at home. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special!
What Makes This Recipe Special
The Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken is a celebration of fresh ingredients, offering a delightful mix of flavors, textures, and colors. This bowl is not just another salad; it combines the heartiness of brown rice and quinoa with the crispness of fresh vegetables, the brininess of olives, and the creaminess of feta and Greek yogurt. It’s a meal that’s both fulfilling and refreshing, perfect for any day of the week. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your taste and dietary needs!
What’s in the Bowl
This bowl is a harmonious blend of various ingredients, each contributing to the overall flavor and nutritional profile:
- 2 cooked chicken breasts – Grilled or baked, providing lean protein.
- 2 cups arugula – A peppery green that adds a fresh bite.
- 2 cups cooked brown rice and quinoa – A hearty base full of fiber and nutrients.
- 10 grape tomatoes, sliced – Juicy and sweet, adding freshness.
- 1/3 cup kalamata olives – For a salty, tangy twist.
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumber – Refreshing and crisp, perfect for crunch.
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese – Adds creaminess and a salty flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens the dish with acidity.
- 1/3 cup Greek yogurt – Creamy and rich, a healthy alternative to dressing.
- 1/2 cup hummus – Provides additional flavor and creaminess.
- 1/4 cup tahini salad dressing (optional) – For those who love extra creaminess and nuttiness.
Tools & Equipment Needed
To make your Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools:
- Cutting board – For chopping your fresh veggies.
- Chef’s knife – A sharp knife makes prep work easier.
- Cookware – For cooking chicken and grains (like a skillet and pot).
- Mixing bowl – To combine your ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken Made Stepwise
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Begin by cooking your chicken breasts, either by grilling or baking. Season them with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 2: Prepare the Grains
If you’re using uncooked brown rice and quinoa, rinse them under cold water and then cook according to package instructions. Typically, combine 1 cup of grains with 2 cups of water, bring to a boil, then simmer until cooked.
Step 3: Chop the Vegetables
While the chicken and grains are cooking, slice your grape tomatoes, cucumber, and prepare the arugula. Remove the seeds from the cucumber for a less watery texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowl
In a large mixing bowl, start layering your ingredients. Begin with the cooked brown rice and quinoa as your base, then add arugula, sliced chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
Step 5: Add the Dressings
Drizzle the lemon juice over the bowl and add a dollop of Greek yogurt and hummus. If you’re using tahini dressing, drizzle it on top for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 6: Toss and Serve
Gently toss all the ingredients together, ensuring everything is well combined. Serve immediately and enjoy your vibrant Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken!
Ingredient Flex Options
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand:
- Replace chicken with chickpeas or grilled tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Substitute quinoa with couscous or farro for different grain textures.
- Add other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or radishes for more crunch.
- Use goat cheese instead of feta for a tangy flavor profile.
Common Errors (and Fixes)
- Overcooking the Chicken: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that chicken is cooked through but still juicy.
- Dry Grains: If your grains are too dry, consider adding a splash of broth or water when reheating.
- Soggy Vegetables: To avoid this, add your fresh veggies right before serving.
- Too Much Dressing: Start with a small amount of dressing and add more if needed; you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
Best Ways to Store
Leftovers of your Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep everything fresh, store the grains and chicken separately from the vegetables and dressings. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the grains and chicken in the microwave and toss everything together again.
Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken FAQs
Can I make this bowl ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the components a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent sogginess.
Is this bowl gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free grains like quinoa and ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free, this bowl is a great gluten-free option.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, beef, or even plant-based proteins like lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
What can I serve with this grain bowl?
This grain bowl is quite filling on its own, but if you want to serve it alongside something, consider a light soup or a side of pita bread with hummus.
Ready to Cook?
Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to whip up your own Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken! Embrace the vibrant flavors, enjoy the satisfying textures, and relish in the fact that you’re treating yourself to a healthy, homemade meal. This recipe is not just a dish; it’s a journey to the Mediterranean right from your kitchen. Happy cooking!
Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Cook the Chicken - Cook your chicken breasts by grilling or baking. Season and cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let rest before slicing.
- Step 2: Prepare the Grains - Rinse uncooked brown rice and quinoa, then cook according to package instructions.
- Step 3: Chop the Vegetables - Slice grape tomatoes and cucumber, prepare arugula by removing seeds for texture.
- Step 4: Assemble the Bowl - Layer cooked grains, arugula, chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta in a large mixing bowl.
- Step 5: Add the Dressings - Drizzle lemon juice, add Greek yogurt and hummus, and tahini if using.
- Step 6: Toss and Serve - Gently toss ingredients together and serve immediately.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Store grains and chicken separately from vegetables and dressings.
- Prep components a day in advance for convenience.
