Are you craving a delicious and nutritious meal that transports you straight to the Mediterranean coast? Look no further than the Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken! This vibrant bowl is not only packed with flavor, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it the perfect choice for a healthy lunch or dinner. With a delightful mix of fresh vegetables, wholesome grains, and tender chicken, this bowl is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

Reasons to Love Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken

The Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken is a wonderful option for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile; you can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Second, it is a wonderful source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a filling and satisfying meal. Lastly, the combination of textures and flavors—from crunchy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes to creamy feta and savory olives—creates an explosion of taste in every bite.

Ingredient Breakdown

To prepare your Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

2 chicken breasts – Cooked and sliced for protein-packed goodness.
2 cups arugula – Adds a peppery flavor and a nutrient boost.
2 cups cooked brown rice and quinoa – A hearty base rich in fiber and protein.
10 grape tomatoes – Sliced for sweetness and a pop of color.
1/3 cup kalamata olives – Provides a briny flavor that enhances the dish.
1/2 cup sliced cucumber – Refreshing and crunchy, with seeds removed for a smoother texture.
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese – Creamy and salty, a perfect pairing with the veggies.
1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens the flavors and adds acidity.
1/3 cup Greek yogurt – A great source of creaminess and protein.
1/2 cup hummus – Adds flavor and a further dose of healthy fats.
1/4 cup tahini salad dressing (optional) – For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle this over the top.

Appliances & Accessories

To make your Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken, you will need a few essential appliances and accessories:

Cooking Pot or Rice Cooker – For cooking brown rice and quinoa.
Grill or Skillet – To cook the chicken breasts to perfection.
Cutting Board and Knife – For chopping vegetables and slicing the chicken.
Mixing Bowl – To combine all your ingredients.
Serving Bowl – For presenting your beautiful Mediterranean grain bowl.

Make Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken: A Simple Method

Creating your own Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken at home is simple and straightforward! Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Cook the Grains

In a cooking pot or rice cooker, combine brown rice and quinoa according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-sear them over medium heat until fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Once cooked, let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Chop the Veggies

While the chicken is cooking, slice your cucumbers, grape tomatoes, and kalamata olives.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with lemon juice. If you choose to use tahini salad dressing, have it ready for drizzling.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked brown rice and quinoa, arugula, sliced cucumbers, grape tomatoes, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss gently to combine.

Step 6: Add the Chicken and Dressing

Top the salad mixture with the sliced chicken. Drizzle the Greek yogurt dressing and hummus over the top, and if desired, drizzle with tahini salad dressing.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your bowl in individual serving dishes, or keep it in the mixing bowl for a family-style meal. Enjoy the explosion of flavors and textures in every bite!

Fit It to Your Goals

You can easily modify the Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken to better fit your dietary goals:

Make it Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add extra chickpeas or roasted vegetables.
Lower Carb Option: Substitute brown rice and quinoa with cauliflower rice.
Add More Greens: Feel free to add spinach, kale, or any leafy greens you enjoy.
Extra Protein: Add chickpeas or lentils for a plant-based protein boost.

Mistakes That Ruin Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken

Even the best recipes can go awry if certain mistakes are made. Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

Using overcooked grains can lead to a mushy texture.
Forgetting to season the chicken will result in blandness.
Not allowing the chicken to rest before slicing can cause it to lose juices.
Skipping the dressing makes for a dry bowl.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness of your Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken:

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and grains separately, but the fresh vegetables and dressings are best enjoyed fresh. When ready to eat, reheat the grains and chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop, and serve with fresh greens and toppings.

Common Qs About Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken

Can I use different grains instead of brown rice and quinoa?

Absolutely! You can use farro, barley, or any grain of your choice. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Is there a way to make this bowl spicier?

Of course! You can add diced jalapeños or a spicy dressing to kick up the heat.

How can I make this grain bowl more filling?

Add more protein sources like chickpeas or lentils, or serve it with a side of whole grain pita bread.

Can I prepare this grain bowl ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the ingredients ahead and assemble them when ready to eat. Just keep the dressing separate to avoid sogginess.

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed the Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken, you might want to explore these delicious recipes:

Serve & Enjoy

Once your Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken is ready, serve it up with pride! This bowl is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and Mediterranean flavors that will leave you satisfied and energized. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with friends and family, this dish is sure to impress.

Each bite is a delightful reminder of how easy it is to create wholesome, flavorful meals at home. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and indulge in the delightful experience of making your very own Panera Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Chicken!