Name: Lemon Dijon Chicken Rice Bowl with Lemon Feta Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup Greek yogurt; ½ cup crumbled feta cheese; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 clove garlic, grated; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked brown or white rice; 1 cup roasted or steamed broccoli; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; ½ cup diced cucumber; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant, wholesome meal that bursts with flavor and comfort, look no further than the Lemon Dijon Chicken Rice Bowl with Lemon Feta Yogurt Sauce. This dish perfectly balances tangy lemon, creamy feta, and zesty Dijon mustard to create a harmonious medley that brightens up every bite. With tender chicken strips, fresh veggies, and a luscious yogurt sauce, it’s an easy yet impressive meal that feels like a warm embrace after a busy day. Trust me, once you try this bowl, it will quickly become a weekly favorite in your kitchen.

Lemon Dijon Chicken Rice Bowl with Lemon Feta Yogurt Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to making this dish shine. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color — from the juicy chicken marinated in Dijon and lemon to the refreshing mix of veggies and creamy sauce. Here’s exactly what you’ll need:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips: The protein base, perfect for soaking up the marinade’s bright flavors.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps the chicken crisp beautifully.
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Offers a tangy kick that complements the lemon perfectly.
Zest and juice of 1 lemon: Brings a refreshing citrus brightness that lifts the entire dish.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses savory depth and warmth.
½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and color.
½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors.
1 cup Greek yogurt: The creamy base for the signature lemon feta yogurt sauce.
½ cup crumbled feta cheese: Gives the sauce its rich, tangy character.
1 tablespoon lemon juice and 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Double lemon power for that fresh zing in the sauce.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds silkiness to the sauce.
1 clove garlic, grated: Delivers a milder garlic flavor to the sauce.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Balances the sauce perfectly.
2 cups cooked brown or white rice: The comforting foundation of the bowl.
1 cup roasted or steamed broccoli: Adds vibrant green color and a satisfying crunch.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Offers juicy bursts of sweetness.
½ cup diced cucumber: Brings cool freshness to every bite.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: The finishing touch for bright herbal notes.

How to Make Lemon Dijon Chicken Rice Bowl with Lemon Feta Yogurt Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Toss the sliced chicken strips in this vibrant marinade until thoroughly coated. Let the chicken soak up these flavors for 10 to 15 minutes — this short marination will infuse each piece with a perfect balance of tang and spice without overwhelming the meat.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and transfer the marinated chicken strips into the pan. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and beautifully browned on the edges. This ensures juicy, tender chicken that carries all the marinade’s brightness with a nice seared texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Feta Yogurt Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the star accompaniment — the lemon feta yogurt sauce. Combine Greek yogurt, crumbled feta cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, grated garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir everything together until smooth and creamy. This sauce is where the magic happens, bringing tanginess and creaminess that perfectly ties each element of your bowl together.

Step 4: Assemble the Rice Bowl

Start with a generous base of your cooked brown or white rice. Layer on the roasted or steamed broccoli, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced cucumber for a fresh, colorful veggie medley. Top it all with the warm lemon Dijon chicken strips. Finally, drizzle the luscious lemon feta yogurt sauce generously over everything, and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley to finish. Your Lemon Dijon Chicken Rice Bowl with Lemon Feta Yogurt Sauce is ready to be devoured!

How to Serve Lemon Dijon Chicken Rice Bowl with Lemon Feta Yogurt Sauce

Garnishes

Elevate your bowl with simple garnishes that add texture and flavor. Think extra crumbled feta for creamy bursts, fresh lemon wedges for an added citrus punch, or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for crunch. These finishing touches make the meal feel special and personalized.

Side Dishes

Pair this bowl with warm pita bread or soft flatbreads to scoop up the sauce. If you want to add more veggies, roasted sweet potatoes or colorful bell peppers complement the flavors beautifully while adding a hearty touch. A crisp, simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette also balances the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress guests, serve the Lemon Dijon Chicken Rice Bowl with Lemon Feta Yogurt Sauce in pretty glass jars or layered bowls, highlighting each colorful element. Alternatively, turn it into a meal prep superstar by packing ingredients separately so the sauce stays fresh until serving. No matter the presentation, this dish promises an irresistible experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chicken and rice bowls can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the lemon feta yogurt sauce separate to maintain its creamy texture and freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken strips and rice separately in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the yogurt sauce, as its texture may change upon thawing. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken and rice gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out. Add the lemon feta yogurt sauce fresh after reheating to enjoy that vibrant, creamy finish.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will offer a juicier, richer flavor and remain tender when cooked. Just adjust cooking time as needed to ensure they’re fully done.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative and omit the feta or use a plant-based cheese to keep the creamy quality without dairy.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

The lemon feta yogurt sauce tastes best fresh but can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Give it a good stir before serving as flavors meld over time.

What rice works best in this recipe?

Either brown or white rice works well. Brown rice adds nuttiness and extra fiber, while white rice offers a softer texture. Choose based on your preference.

How spicy is the dish?

This recipe isn’t spicy but carries a mild kick from the smoked paprika and Dijon mustard. You can adjust seasoning to add chili flakes if desired for more heat.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give the Lemon Dijon Chicken Rice Bowl with Lemon Feta Yogurt Sauce a try soon. It’s one of those meals that feels both nurturing and exciting, perfect for any day of the week when you want something fresh, flavorful, and satisfying. Once you taste that vibrant sauce paired with tender chicken and fresh veggies, you’ll understand why this bowl has earned a special place in my heart and kitchen. Happy cooking!