Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
Greek chicken souvlaki bowls with garlic yogurt sauce bring together bold Mediterranean flavors in a way that feels fresh, filling, and practical for everyday meals. Juicy marinated chicken, warm spices, crisp vegetables, and a cool, creamy sauce all land in one balanced bowl that works for lunch or dinner. This is the kind of recipe that feels restaurant-worthy but is easy enough to make at home, even on a busy weeknight. The components are simple, flexible, and great for meal prep, which makes these bowls just as useful as they are satisfying. If you enjoy bright flavors, hearty textures, and meals that leave you feeling good afterward, this one is a solid keeper.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 4 bowls
Ingredients
For the Chicken Souvlaki
1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into chunks
3 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 small garlic clove, finely grated
Salt to taste
For the Bowls
2 cups cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
Add the chicken pieces and toss until well coated. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours in the fridge.
While the chicken marinates, prepare the garlic yogurt sauce by mixing Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, grated garlic, and salt until smooth. Chill until ready to use.
Cook your grain of choice according to package instructions and keep warm.
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface.
Add the marinated chicken in a single layer, working in batches if needed.
Cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Assemble bowls by dividing grains among four bowls, then topping with chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
Drizzle generously with garlic yogurt sauce, finish with feta and fresh herbs, and serve warm.
Tips
Chicken thighs stay juicier, but breasts work well if not overcooked.
Longer marinating time deepens flavor, but even 20 minutes helps.
Cut chicken evenly so it cooks at the same rate.
Use a hot pan to get good browning.
Do not overcrowd the pan or the chicken will steam.
Resting the chicken keeps it tender and juicy.
Grate the garlic for the sauce to avoid harsh chunks.
Taste the sauce and adjust salt or lemon as needed.
Warm grains improve overall bowl texture.
Finish with fresh herbs for a brighter flavor.
Variations
Use grilled chicken skewers for a more traditional feel.
Swap chicken for shrimp or lamb.
Make it low-carb by serving over cauliflower rice.
Add roasted potatoes instead of grains.
Include olives for extra Mediterranean flavor.
Add hummus for a richer bowl.
Make the sauce spicy with chili flakes.
Use dill instead of parsley for a classic note.
Try a dairy-free yogurt for a lactose-free option.
Serve everything wrapped in warm pita bread.
Q and A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, all components store well and can be assembled later.
How long does the chicken keep?
Cooked chicken lasts up to 4 days refrigerated.
Can I cook the chicken in the oven?
Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 18 to 22 minutes.
Is the garlic yogurt sauce strong?
It is mild and creamy, not overpowering.
Can I freeze the chicken?
Yes, cooked chicken freezes well for up to 2 months.
What grains work best?
Rice, quinoa, and couscous all work nicely.
Is this recipe healthy?
It is balanced, protein-rich, and full of fresh ingredients.
Can kids enjoy this?
Yes, you can reduce garlic or spices if needed.
What can I serve on the side?
Pita, a green salad, or roasted vegetables pair well.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it scales easily for meal prep or guests.
Nutrition
(Per Bowl, Approximate)
Calories: 520
Protein: 42g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 6g
Conclusion
Greek chicken souvlaki bowls with garlic yogurt sauce are a great example of how simple ingredients can come together to make something both comforting and vibrant. The tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauce create a meal that feels complete without being heavy. Whether you make it for a quick dinner, pack it for lunches, or serve it to guests, this recipe fits easily into real life and delivers reliable flavor every time.