Spicy Garlic Chicken Bowl with Hummus and Cucumber Salad — just saying it makes my mouth water. It’s one of those meals that happened by accident but now lives on repeat in my kitchen. If you enjoy fresh, flavor-packed recipes like this, don’t forget to subscribe here for more straight-from-the-heart dishes every week.
This bowl was born one late Wednesday night. I opened the fridge to what looked like mismatched leftovers: two chicken breasts, a half-used tub of hummus, and a few tomatoes clinging to their last bit of freshness. But hunger inspires creativity. I diced the chicken, tossed it in garlic, chili flakes, tomato paste, and a bit of honey — and from that pan came something bold, sweet, and spicy.
What I love most is the way everything comes together: warm garlicky chicken with that sticky glaze, creamy hummus underneath, and a crunchy, lemony cucumber salad on the side. It’s comfort food that doesn’t weigh you down — the kind of balance I crave on busy days.
It instantly reminded me of the flavor-packed Ultimate Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Plate — both meals have that sweet-savory harmony that hits the spot.
Now it’s your turn to recreate this bowl — and trust me, once you do, it’ll find a permanent spot on your dinner rotation.
Why This Recipe Is So Special
What sets this Spicy Garlic Chicken Bowl with Hummus and Cucumber Salad apart is how effortlessly it blends bold flavor with everyday ingredients. The chicken is juicy and seared to perfection, wrapped in a sweet-spicy glaze of garlic, honey, and chili flakes. It clings to every bite and makes you want just one more forkful.
Then comes the contrast — the cool, lemony crunch of the cucumber salad. It’s not just a side; it’s essential. That refreshing crunch balances the heat beautifully. And the hummus? It’s the creamy foundation that ties it all together, offering richness without heaviness.
This isn’t just a meal; it’s a bowl full of textures and temperatures that play together like a good melody. Much like the Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce, it brings together marinated meat, fresh veg, and a creamy dip — all in perfect sync.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding someone you love, this bowl delivers comfort and excitement in every bite.
Ingredients & Preparation
Let’s Break Down What You’ll Need
What I love most about this Spicy Garlic Chicken Bowl with Hummus and Cucumber Salad is that it uses simple ingredients you likely already have. Each component is humble on its own — but together, they create bold, craveable flavor.
Here’s what goes into the bowl:
| Component | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Spicy Chicken | 2 diced chicken breasts, olive oil, minced garlic, tomato paste, honey, chili flakes, lemon juice, salt, pepper, parsley |
| Cucumber Salad | Diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes or red bell pepper, lemon juice, olive oil, salt |
| Hummus Base | Hummus (store-bought or homemade), olive oil, smoked paprika or chili powder |
You can adjust spice to your liking. If chili flakes are too fiery, try sweet paprika or even a dash of cumin for a milder touch.
Don’t have fresh parsley? Cilantro works beautifully. And while chicken breast keeps things lean, boneless chicken thighs will give a juicier bite.
Print
Spicy Garlic Chicken Bowl with Hummus and Cucumber Salad
- Total Time: 27
- Yield: 2 servings
Description
Spicy Garlic Chicken Bowl with Hummus and Cucumber Salad is a bold, fresh, and comforting weeknight meal with juicy chicken, creamy hummus, and crisp cucumber salad all in one perfect bowl.
Ingredients
• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp chili flakes
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes or red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for salad)
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tsp olive oil (for hummus)
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika or chili powder
Instructions
1. Dice the chicken and mince the garlic. Prep cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds.
3. Add chicken, tomato paste, honey, chili flakes, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook 10–12 minutes until golden and cooked through.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cucumber, tomatoes, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Toss and let sit.
5. Spread hummus on each bowl’s base. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika or chili powder.
6. Top hummus with the hot chicken and fresh cucumber salad. Garnish with parsley.
7. Serve immediately with pita or enjoy as is!
Notes
– Swap chicken for crispy tofu or roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
– Use boneless thighs for a juicier, richer flavor.
– Adjust chili flakes to taste — or use sweet paprika for a milder version.
– Make ahead by storing each component separately up to 4 days.
– Pairs well with warm pita or extra hummus on the side.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 12
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Tools & Substitutions You’ll Love
You won’t need anything fancy — a good nonstick skillet, a sharp knife, and a mixing bowl or two are all it takes.
If you’re short on time, pre-chopped garlic or store-bought hummus are absolutely fine. In fact, I often serve this with my own twist on Greek-Style Loaded Hummus when I’m making it for friends. It adds a little wow factor without extra effort.
This recipe is super forgiving. You can even swap the cucumber salad for something like the Avocado Tomato Onion Salad for an extra creamy edge.
Next up? Let’s walk through the cooking process step-by-step — with all the little tips that make it come out just right.
Cooking Instructions & Tips
Step-by-Step Method to Make the Bowl
Making this Spicy Garlic Chicken Bowl with Hummus and Cucumber Salad is fast, satisfying, and surprisingly fun. You’ll have everything ready in under 30 minutes.
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. Mince the garlic, slice the cucumbers, and chop any veggies you’re using for the salad.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Toss in the chicken, tomato paste, honey, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat evenly and cook for 10–12 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
Step 3: Make the Salad
Toss diced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes while the chicken finishes cooking — this helps the flavors come alive.
Step 4: Plate Your Bowl
Spread a thick layer of hummus at the base of your bowl. Spoon over the spicy chicken, then add a generous scoop of cucumber salad on the side. Finish with parsley and a drizzle of olive oil or a dusting of paprika.
Tips to Make It Just Right
-
Let the chicken rest for 3 minutes before serving — it holds the juices and intensifies flavor.
-
Use a shallow bowl — helps layer the components without overcrowding.
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Want even more punch? Add a spoon of Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry to double the protein.
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If you’re hosting, serve alongside Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms for a flavorful vegetarian side dish.
Now that your bowl is ready, let’s talk serving ideas, storage, and the best pairings.
Serving, Storing & Pairing
What to Serve With This Flavor-Packed Bowl
This Spicy Garlic Chicken Bowl with Hummus and Cucumber Salad truly stands on its own. But if you’re looking to turn it into a fuller spread or impress a dinner guest, a few easy additions can take it even further.
I love pairing this bowl with warm, soft pita or toasted flatbread. It’s perfect for scooping up that creamy hummus and catching every drop of spicy chicken glaze.
For a lighter touch, add a side of Avocado Tomato Onion Salad. The richness of avocado and juicy tomatoes complements the garlic and spice so well — it feels like sunshine on a plate.
And if you’re craving variety, I highly recommend a dollop of Greek-Style Loaded Hummus on the side. It amps up the Mediterranean vibe and brings even more color and texture to the dish.
How to Store and Reheat Like a Pro
This bowl is perfect for meal prep. Simply store each component in its own airtight container:
-
Chicken: Refrigerate up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to keep it juicy.
-
Salad: Best fresh, but it holds for 1–2 days. Keep the dressing separate if storing ahead.
-
Hummus: Store-bought hummus lasts a week in the fridge. Homemade will keep 3–4 days.
When you’re ready to serve again, reheat the chicken gently, spoon it over cold hummus, add the salad, and you’ve got a vibrant meal in minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this spicy garlic chicken bowl ahead of time?
Absolutely! This bowl is ideal for meal prep. Cook the chicken and prepare the salad in advance, then store them separately in airtight containers. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat the chicken and assemble — the hummus can go straight from fridge to bowl.
What kind of hummus works best?
Any good-quality hummus will do the trick. Store-bought is totally fine, especially if you’re in a hurry. I sometimes use garlic or roasted red pepper hummus for an extra flavor boost. If you want to go homemade, even better — try making it extra smooth for that creamy base.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will make the dish even juicier and slightly richer. Just adjust the cooking time slightly — thighs may take a few more minutes to fully cook through.
Is this spicy garlic chicken bowl gluten-free?
Yes — if your hummus is certified gluten-free and you skip any bread on the side, the bowl itself is naturally gluten-free. It’s a great option for anyone watching their gluten intake while still craving bold, comforting flavors.
Can I make this spicy garlic chicken bowl vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the chicken for roasted chickpeas, crispy tofu, or grilled halloumi. Just season them with the same garlic and chili blend to keep the flavor bold and satisfying.
Conclusion
This Spicy Garlic Chicken Bowl with Hummus and Cucumber Salad is the kind of meal that feels good to make — and even better to eat. It’s layered, balanced, and flexible enough to suit your cravings, whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd.
The harmony of spicy chicken, creamy hummus, and fresh cucumber crunch makes every bite satisfying. It’s quickly become one of those “what should I make tonight?” answers that always delivers.
If you enjoyed this recipe, you’ll probably also love my Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Hummus Spread — they use similar flavors with a grilled twist. Or try the Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce for another take on a fresh and satisfying dinner.
Looking for even more Mediterranean inspiration? I also adore the Chicken Tzatziki Bowls from Half Baked Harvest — they’re vibrant, fresh, and packed with herbs.