Mediterranean Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls & Garlic Sauce
These Greek-inspired souvlaki bowls are a wholesome and flavorful way to enjoy the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean. Tender marinated chicken is grilled or roasted until golden, then served over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa with fresh cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, tangy olives, and creamy feta. The simple garlic yogurt sauce ties everything together, making this dish perfect for a hearty dinner, meal prep, or a nourishing lunch.
Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes to marinate)
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes (excluding marinating)
Ingredients
For the chicken souvlaki:
1 ½ lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into cubes
3 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp smoked paprika
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the garlic sauce:
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 garlic cloves, minced into a paste
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt, to taste
For the bowls:
2 cups cooked basmati or jasmine rice (or quinoa)
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup Kalamata olives
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Marinate the chicken:
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken cubes, tossing to coat well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for more flavor).
Cook the chicken:
Heat a grill pan, skillet, or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken pieces for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C). Set aside.
Make the garlic sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, garlic paste, olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until creamy and smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble the bowls:
Divide rice or quinoa into serving bowls.
Top with cooked chicken, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta.
Drizzle with garlic sauce and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve:
Enjoy warm, with extra lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Tips & Variations
Grain Base: Swap the rice with quinoa, bulgur, farro, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
Protein Options: Use chicken thighs for juicier meat, or substitute with shrimp, lamb, or grilled halloumi for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Meal Prep Friendly: Cook a larger batch of chicken and rice, then portion into containers with veggies and sauce on the side. The bowls keep well in the fridge for 3–4 days.
Veggie Boost: Add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant to make the bowls even more filling and colorful.
Garlic Sauce Twist: Stir in a spoonful of tahini, fresh dill, or mint for an herby variation.
Make it Low-Carb: Serve over a big Greek salad instead of rice—use lettuce, cucumbers, olives, tomatoes, and onions as the base.
Extra Flavor: Add a drizzle of pomegranate molasses, balsamic glaze, or a sprinkle of za’atar just before serving.
Serving Style: Instead of bowls, stuff the chicken, veggies, and sauce into warm pita bread for handheld souvlaki wraps.
Q&A
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
A: Yes. Arrange the marinated chicken on a lined baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q: How long can the garlic sauce be stored?
A: It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days in a sealed container. Stir before serving.
Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Absolutely. Replace Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or a cashew-based dip.
Q: Is this recipe good for meal prep?
A: Yes. Store the chicken, grains, veggies, and sauce separately for best freshness. Assemble bowls just before eating.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes, though marinating and grilling gives the best authentic flavor. If using pre-cooked chicken, toss with olive oil, lemon, and spices before adding to the bowls.
Nutrition
(per serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: ~510
Protein: 41 g
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugars: 6 g
Sodium: ~620 mg
(Values are approximate and vary with portion size and ingredients.)
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls are a complete, satisfying meal that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful. The smoky, lemony chicken pairs perfectly with the fresh vegetables, briny olives, and creamy garlic sauce. They’re versatile enough for weeknight dinners, meal prep lunches, or even a casual dinner party. With just a bit of prep, you’ll have a balanced dish that highlights the heart-healthy and vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean diet.