Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that bursts with vibrant Mediterranean flavors and feels as fresh as a summer breeze, these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce are exactly what you need. This dish masterfully combines tender, lemony chicken souvlaki with a creamy and tangy herbed yogurt sauce, all nestled atop a bed of your favorite grain and colorful veggies. Every bite offers a delightful balance of smoky, savory, and fresh, making it an absolute favorite for dinner any night of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce is in the simplicity of the ingredients. Each component brings something unique to the table—from the bright citrus notes to the creamy, herb-infused sauce—creating a harmonious and truly satisfying dish.

• Chicken breast (500 g): Boneless and skinless for easy marinating and quick cooking.
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps infuse the chicken with flavor.
• Lemon juice (3 tablespoons + 1 tablespoon for sauce): Provides that zesty tang that brightens the entire dish.
• Garlic (4 cloves): Mines and scattered through the marinade and sauce for deep aromatic undertones.
• Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Classic Greek herb that perfectly complements the chicken.
• Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle smoky depth and a beautiful color.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance flavors.
• Plain Greek yogurt (½ cup): The creamy base of the herbed yogurt sauce with natural tanginess.
• Fresh dill or parsley (1 tablespoon chopped + garnish): Brightens the sauce with fresh herbal notes.
• Cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous (1 cup): Your grain base, fluffy and ready to soak up all those delicious juices.
• Cherry tomatoes (1 cup): Add sweetness and a juicy pop in every bite.
• Cucumber (1 cup diced): Brings refreshing crunch and cool contrast.
• Red onion (¼ cup thinly sliced): Provides a sharp bite to awaken the palate.
• Kalamata olives (¼ cup halved): Briny and full of character for that authentic Greek touch.
• Feta cheese (¼ cup crumbled): Salty creaminess that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces into this vibrant marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Let it rest covered for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have time—the longer it marinates, the deeper those bright and smoky flavors will soak in.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until hot and ready. Cook the marinated chicken pieces for around 5 to 7 minutes on each side, allowing them to develop a beautiful golden-brown crust while remaining juicy on the inside. The smell will already have your kitchen feeling like a seaside taverna!

Step 3: Prepare the Herbed Yogurt Sauce

Mix plain Greek yogurt with lemon juice, minced garlic, and your choice of fresh dill or parsley in a small bowl. Season lightly with salt and black pepper to taste. This sauce brings a creamy tang that cools perfectly against the warm, spiced chicken, giving the Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce their signature touch.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Start by distributing your cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous evenly into serving bowls. Arrange cooked chicken chunks on top, then add halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese around the bowl’s edges. Drizzle the herbed yogurt sauce generously over the entire bowl and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill for that final burst of color and flavor.

Step 5: Serve

Enjoy your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce immediately, while the chicken is still warm and tender. This meal is an effortless showstopper that looks as good as it tastes.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce

Garnishes

Adding fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or even a little mint elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise. A sprinkle of extra crumbled feta or a few lemon wedges on the side also makes the presentation inviting and offers guests options to customize their bowls.

Side Dishes

Though the bowls are quite filling on their own, light sides such as grilled pita bread, a simple Greek salad, or even roasted vegetables can complement this meal and make it perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the components deconstructed on a platter, allowing everyone to build their own bowls. This interactive style is not only fun but also adds to the casual, communal vibe that makes Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce so special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken, grains, and veggies separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prevents sogginess and keeps everything tasting fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing

The cooked chicken souvlaki freezes beautifully. Place pieces in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they’ll keep well for up to 2 months. The herbed yogurt sauce does not freeze well, so prepare that fresh when ready to eat.

Reheating

Gently reheat the chicken in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, ensuring it stays juicy. Reheat the grains separately or enjoy them cold if preferred. Add fresh veggies just before serving to maintain their crispness.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat for the souvlaki?

Absolutely! While chicken is light and quick-cooking, pork or lamb also works beautifully with these herbs and spices if you want to switch things up.

Is it necessary to use Greek yogurt in the sauce?

Greek yogurt is ideal for its thick, creamy texture and tangy flavor, but you can use regular yogurt if that’s what you have, just be sure to strain it to thicken.

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

Definitely! Substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas and swap the yogurt sauce for a vegan cashew-based sauce or tzatziki made with coconut yogurt.

What grain is best for the base of the bowls?

Rice, quinoa, or couscous all pair wonderfully. Pick whichever you prefer or have on hand — each adds a slightly different texture and flavor to the bowls.

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

A minimum of 30 minutes allows the flavors to start soaking in, but marinating up to 2 hours results in even juicier, tastier chicken.

Final Thoughts

Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce are a vibrant, satisfying dish that feels like a little Mediterranean vacation on your plate. With their simple ingredients and straightforward steps, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend get-togethers. Dive in and enjoy every bright, flavorful bite—you’re going to love how effortlessly delicious this becomes in your recipe rotation!