Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Yogurt Feta Sauce Recipe

If you’ve ever wished for a meal that bursts with vibrant Mediterranean flavors and feels both fresh and satisfying, these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Yogurt Feta Sauce will quickly become your go-to dinner. Tender, juicy cubes of garlic and oregano-marinated chicken grilled to perfection rest on a fluffy bed of rice or quinoa, layered with crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and tangy red onion. The whole bowl is brought to life by a luscious yogurt feta sauce that adds a creamy, zesty finish you won’t be able to resist. This dish is like a little trip to the sunny Greek isles in the comfort of your own kitchen, and once you try it, you’ll be hooked.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Greek-inspired bowl, all you need are simple, fresh ingredients that each play a crucial role in building the dish’s vibrant flavors and textures. From the tender chicken to the crisp veggies and the creamy sauce, every component shines on its own but comes together beautifully.

• Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless breasts cut into cubes for quick, even cooking and a juicy bite every time.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the chicken marinate beautifully, infusing it with Mediterranean warmth.
• Lemon juice: Provides bright acidity that tenderizes the chicken and lifts all the flavors.
• Garlic: Fresh minced cloves bring that classic punchy aroma essential to Greek cooking.
• Dried oregano: The herbal backbone that brings authentic souvlaki flavor to the chicken.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth without overpowering the delicate balance.
• Salt and pepper: For perfect seasoning balance throughout.
• Cooked rice or quinoa: Choose your favorite grain as a hearty and wholesome base.
• Cherry tomatoes: Halved for bursts of sweetness and bright color.
• Cucumber: Diced for crisp, refreshing texture contrast.
• Red onion: Thinly sliced to add a mild bite and a pop of purple.
• Kalamata olives: Sliced for that signature salty, briny Greek flavor.
• Plain Greek yogurt: Forms the creamy base of the yogurt feta sauce, offering tang and smoothness.
• Feta cheese: Crumbled to bring a salty, crumbly richness to the sauce.
• Fresh dill: Chopped for an herbal lift in the sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Yogurt Feta Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss in the cubed chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Letting the chicken soak up those vibrant flavors for at least 20 minutes is key—it tenderizes the meat and infuses it with that unmistakable souvlaki charm.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat your skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot enough to give the chicken a nice sear. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally. The goal is juicy chicken with just the right amount of light charring to bring out smoky notes reminiscent of traditional grill cooking.

Step 3: Prepare the Yogurt Feta Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, mix together plain Greek yogurt, crumbled feta cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, lemon juice, and freshly chopped dill. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Whisk until you have a creamy, smooth sauce that’s rich but bright—this yogurt feta sauce will tie all the elements of your bowl together beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Lay down a hearty base of cooked rice or quinoa in each bowl, then pile on the warm chicken cubes. Add halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and sliced Kalamata olives for that fresh, crunchy Mediterranean crunch. Finally, drizzle the glorious yogurt feta sauce generously over the top. Serve immediately while everything is warm and vibrant.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Yogurt Feta Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate your bowl to restaurant-quality. Think extra dill sprigs, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, or even a little lemon zest for a burst of brightness. A light drizzle of olive oil on top adds a lovely sheen and enriches the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

This dish is perfectly balanced on its own, but if you want to round it out, a crisp Greek salad or warm pita bread on the side works beautifully. You could also serve it with some roasted vegetables or a light lentil salad to add more variety to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Yogurt Feta Sauce in warm pita pockets or as a vibrant salad on a bed of greens instead of grains. You could also turn it into a vibrant mezze platter with small bowls of each component for everyone to mix and match.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover souvlaki chicken and toppings separately from the yogurt feta sauce in airtight containers. This prevents the sauce from becoming watery and keeps the textures fresh. Refrigerate and use within 3 days for the best taste.

Freezing

The cooked chicken cubes freeze well if stored in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. The fresh veggies and yogurt feta sauce do not freeze well, so plan to prepare those fresh after thawing.

Reheating

Reheat chicken gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, taking care not to overcook and dry it out. Add fresh vegetables and sauce when serving to maintain that delightful medley of crispness and creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option if you prefer more flavorful, juicier meat. Just adjust cooking times as thighs may cook a little faster or slower depending on size.

Is quinoa or rice better for the base?

Both work wonderfully. Quinoa adds a nutty flavor and extra protein, while rice offers a softer, more neutral base. Choose whichever you prefer or have on hand.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

Marinating for at least 20 minutes is enough to infuse flavor, but you can let it marinate for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for more depth without any issues.

Can I make the yogurt feta sauce dairy-free?

Substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and omit or replace the feta with a dairy-free alternative, though flavors will vary slightly from the classic version.

Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?

Yes! The components store well separately, making it easy to assemble fresh bowls throughout the week with minimal effort.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a meal that marries bright Mediterranean flavors with wholesome, satisfying ingredients. These Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Yogurt Feta Sauce are not only delicious and colorful but also incredibly easy to make, which means you can enjoy a taste of Greece any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to try them and see how this dish quickly becomes a beloved staple in your home!