These Chicken Bowls with Tomato Cucumber Salad and Calabrian Chile Sauce are a vibrant and satisfying meal inspired by Southern Italy flavors. Juicy seasoned chicken is paired with a refreshing tomato and cucumber salad, then finished with a creamy, spicy Calabrian chile sauce that adds bold character to every bite.

This bowl is perfect for healthy lunches, quick dinners, or meal prep. It combines lean protein, fresh vegetables, and a slightly spicy, tangy sauce that keeps the meal interesting and delicious.

If you love fresh Mediterranean-style comfort food with a little heat, this recipe is for you.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Tomato Cucumber Salad

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Calabrian Chile Sauce

• 2 tablespoons Calabrian chile paste
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 small garlic clove, minced

For the Bowl Base

• 2 cups cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous
• Sliced avocado (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Add chicken slices to the pan and sprinkle seasoning over them.

Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).

Remove from heat.

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2. Prepare the Tomato Cucumber Salad

In a mixing bowl, combine:

• Cherry tomatoes
• Cucumber
• Red onion
• Parsley

Add olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss gently.

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3. Make the Calabrian Chile Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Calabrian chile paste
• Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• Olive oil
• Honey
• Lemon juice
• Minced garlic

Mix until smooth and creamy.

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4. Assemble the Bowls

Divide cooked rice or grains into serving bowls.

Add chicken slices.

Top with tomato cucumber salad.

Drizzle generously with Calabrian chile sauce.

Add avocado slices if desired.

Serve warm.

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Tips for Best Results

🔥 Do not overcook chicken to keep it juicy.
🥒 Use fresh vegetables for maximum crunch and freshness.
🌶️ Adjust Calabrian chile paste based on spice tolerance.
🍋 Fresh lemon juice improves flavor brightness.

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Variations

Mediterranean Protein Bowl
Add feta cheese, olives, or hummus.

Low-Carb Version
Replace rice with cauliflower rice.

Extra Spicy Version
Add chili flakes or hot sauce.

Vegetarian Version
Replace chicken with roasted chickpeas.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Calabrian chile?

Calabrian chile is a spicy, slightly smoky pepper commonly used in Southern Italy cuisine.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes. Store chicken, salad, and sauce separately for up to 4 days.

What grains work best?

Rice, quinoa, or couscous are great options.

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Serving Suggestions

This bowl pairs well with:

• Pita bread
• Roasted vegetables
• Lemon sparkling water
• Light soup

Great for healthy meal prep or quick dinner.