Mediterranean Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tahini Garlic Sauce
Mediterranean Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls bring together everything that makes Mediterranean cooking so appealing. Fresh ingredients, bold yet balanced flavors, and a satisfying mix of textures all layered into one nourishing bowl. Juicy marinated chicken is grilled or pan-seared until golden, then paired with vibrant vegetables, fluffy grains, and a creamy tahini garlic sauce that ties everything together.
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, healthy meal prep, or relaxed weekend meals when you want something wholesome but still exciting. Each component is simple to prepare, yet when combined, the result feels restaurant-worthy. These bowls are filling without being heavy, customizable to your preferences, and perfect for anyone who enjoys fresh, well-seasoned food with real depth.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes (recommended)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Chicken Souvlaki
Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Garlic, minced
Dried oregano
Ground cumin
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Bowl Components
Cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Cucumber, diced
Red onion, thinly sliced
Kalamata olives, sliced
Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Tahini Garlic Sauce
Tahini
Garlic, finely grated
Lemon juice
Olive oil
Warm water
Salt
Instructions
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and coat thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
While the chicken marinates, prepare the grains and chop all vegetables for the bowls.
In a small bowl, combine tahini, grated garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt.
Slowly whisk in warm water until the sauce becomes smooth and pourable. Set aside.
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from heat and allow it to rest briefly to retain juices.
Assemble the bowls by layering grains on the bottom, followed by vegetables and chicken.
Drizzle generously with tahini garlic sauce and finish with fresh herbs before serving.
Tips for Best Results
Chicken thighs are more forgiving and stay juicier than breasts.
Marinating overnight deepens flavor even more.
Cut chicken evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Use a hot pan for proper browning.
Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming.
Taste and adjust seasoning in the sauce before serving.
Warm water helps tahini emulsify smoothly.
Let cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Lightly season each bowl component for balanced flavor.
Store sauce separately if preparing ahead.
Variations
Use lamb instead of chicken for a traditional Greek twist.
Swap tahini sauce for classic tzatziki.
Add roasted sweet potatoes for extra heartiness.
Make it spicy with chili flakes or harissa.
Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Add crumbled feta cheese for extra creaminess.
Replace grains with mixed greens for a salad-style bowl.
Include hummus as an additional layer.
Use shrimp instead of chicken for a lighter version.
Make it vegetarian with roasted chickpeas or falafel.
Q & A
Can I make these bowls ahead of time?
Yes, all components can be prepared in advance.
Can the chicken be baked instead of pan-cooked?
Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 15 minutes.
Is tahini sauce very strong?
It’s mild and nutty when balanced with lemon.
Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Yes, freeze for up to 2 months.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, if served with gluten-free grains.
How long will leftovers keep?
Up to 3 days refrigerated.
Can I skip marinating?
You can, but flavor improves with marination.
What vegetables work best?
Cucumber, tomato, and onion are classic choices.
Is this suitable for weight-conscious diets?
Yes, it’s balanced and protein-rich.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, simply keep spices mild if needed.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 520
Protein: 38g
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 6g
Sodium: Moderate
Values vary based on ingredients and portion size.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tahini Garlic Sauce are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a meal that feels complete and satisfying. They’re fresh, flavorful, and flexible enough to fit many lifestyles. Whether you’re cooking for the week ahead or serving a relaxed dinner at home, these bowls deliver nourishment, comfort, and bold Mediterranean flavor in every bite. Once you make them, they’re likely to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.