Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a burst of fresh, Mediterranean flavors wrapped up in one satisfying meal, these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Dill Yogurt Sauce are going to become your new weeknight staple. Juicy, perfectly spiced chicken sits atop fluffy rice, vibrant veggies add crunch and color, and the cooling dill yogurt sauce brings it all together in the most delightful way. It’s the kind of dish that feels homemade yet restaurant-quality, and every bite invites you to slow down and savor the sunshine of Greek cuisine. Trust me, once you try this bowl, it’ll quickly find a permanent place in your rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in layering the rich and refreshing flavors of this dish. Fresh herbs, simple spices, and quality staples blend seamlessly to create a harmony of taste, texture, and color that makes these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Dill Yogurt Sauce truly unforgettable.

• Chicken breasts or thighs (1½ lb): Choose boneless and skinless for tender, easy-to-cook pieces that soak up the marinade beautifully.
• Olive oil (3 tbsp): This adds richness and helps the chicken crisp up while grilling or searing.
• Lemon juice (from 1 lemon): Provides a zesty brightness that balances the savory marinade and sauce.
• Garlic (3 cloves minced + 1 grated): Essential for that punch of aromatic flavor in both the chicken and the sauce.
• Dried oregano (1½ tsp): Brings that classic Mediterranean herbal touch everyone loves.
• Smoked paprika (½ tsp): Adds a subtle smokiness that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.
• Salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings to elevate every other ingredient.
• Greek yogurt (½ cup): The creamy base of the dill sauce, cooling and tangy.
• Fresh dill (1 tbsp): The star herb in the sauce, infusing a fragrant, fresh-green flavor.
• Cooked basmati or jasmine rice (2½ cups): Mild-flavored and fluffy, serving as the perfect bed for your toppings.
• Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved): Their juicy sweetness adds vibrant pops of color and taste.
• Cucumber (1 large, diced): Crunchy and refreshing, balancing heat and richness.
• Red onion (¼ cup, thinly sliced): Adds a sharp bite and lovely crunch.
• Fresh parsley (¼ cup chopped): Offers a bright, herbaceous finish to garnish the bowl.
• Kalamata olives (optional): For those who love a salty, briny touch to round out the flavors.

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Dill Yogurt Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This simple yet flavorful marinade is the secret to tender, juicy chicken that carries those unmistakable Mediterranean notes. Toss in the chicken chunks and stir until they are thoroughly coated. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes so each piece soaks up the zesty, garlicky goodness—this is essential for that delicious depth later on.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or a sturdy skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces, cooking them for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready when the outside is beautifully golden and the inside is cooked through but still juicy—not dry. If you’re lucky enough to have a grill, even better! The slight char adds a smoky dimension that takes these bowls to the next level.

Step 3: Prepare the Dill Yogurt Sauce

While your chicken is cooking, whisk together the Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, grated garlic, chopped dill, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This sauce is the cooling counterpoint to the savory chicken, bringing creamy texture and a burst of fresh herb flavor that makes every bite exceptional. Keep it chilled until ready to drizzle over your bowl.

Step 4: Assemble Your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Dill Yogurt Sauce

Now for the fun part! Divide the cooked, fluffy basmati or jasmine rice into your serving bowls. Layer the grilled chicken on top, then scatter halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion across the surface. Finally, generously drizzle the dill yogurt sauce over the entire bowl, and garnish with fresh parsley and optional Kalamata olives. The colors, textures, and aromas will have you eager to dig in.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Dill Yogurt Sauce

Garnishes

A little finishing touch goes a long way with these bowls. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and brightness. Kalamata olives add an optional but excellent salty contrast that perfectly complements the creamy dill yogurt sauce and smoky chicken. If you’re feeling adventurous, a few crushed red pepper flakes can introduce a playful kick without overpowering the delicate flavors.

Side Dishes

These bowls are wonderfully balanced on their own but can be paired with light, complementary sides. A crisp Greek salad with feta and olives echoes the flavors beautifully, or some warm pita bread on the side invites you to scoop up every last bit of sauce and chicken. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant also add a nice roasted depth, making the meal complete.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress friends or make your dinner feel extra special? Serve the ingredients buffet-style, letting everyone build their own Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Dill Yogurt Sauce. Or use individual mason jars layered with rice, chicken, veggies, and sauce for a visually stunning and portable meal. This dish also works wonderfully as a flavorful lunchbox option or picnic treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken, rice, and sauce separately in airtight containers to keep the flavors and textures fresh. The chicken maintains its juicy tenderness well when reheated gently, and the dill yogurt sauce stays bright and creamy when chilled.

Freezing

If you plan to freeze your leftovers, it’s best to keep the chicken and rice in separate freezer-safe containers without the yogurt sauce, which can separate upon freezing. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then prepare a fresh batch of dill yogurt sauce or use the refrigerated sauce for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken and rice gently in a skillet or microwave until hot but not overcooked to avoid drying out the chicken. Add the dill yogurt sauce after reheating to keep its cool creaminess intact. This simple approach keeps your leftovers just as delicious as the day they were made.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more fat and tenderness, making them fantastic for these bowls. Just be sure to cook them through carefully, as they can take slightly longer than breasts.

Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt in the dill sauce?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use plain yogurt, though the sauce might be a bit thinner. For a dairy-free option, try unsweetened coconut yogurt or a cashew-based yogurt, but the flavor and texture will differ slightly.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

While 30 minutes is the minimum for marinating, you can prepare the chicken a few hours ahead or even overnight to deepen the flavor. Just keep it refrigerated and covered during this time.

Can I grill the chicken outside instead of using a pan?

Definitely, grilling outdoors is a fantastic way to add authentic smoky char and enhances the flavor. Just be sure to oil the grill grates well to prevent sticking.

What rice works best for this recipe?

Basmati and jasmine rice are ideal due to their fluffy texture and aromatic qualities that complement the Mediterranean flavors. However, you can also use quinoa or couscous for a slightly different twist.

Final Thoughts

Making these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Dill Yogurt Sauce is like bringing a sunny Greek taverna right into your kitchen. They combine fresh, vibrant ingredients with bold, comforting flavors in a way that feels both special and effortlessly approachable. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining friends, or just treating yourself to a delicious meal, these bowls offer a win every time. I can’t wait for you to give them a try and fall in love with their bright, savory charm as much as I have!