Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce Recipe

If you crave a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that feels like a warm Mediterranean hug, these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce are about to become your new favorite go-to. Picture tender, lemon-kissed chicken grilled to perfection, nestled on a bed of fluffy grains, bursting with fresh veggies, and topped with a luxuriously smooth feta sauce that brings every bite together in pure harmony. This dish isn’t just dinner—it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming alive in the most delicious way possible.

Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in these bowls plays a vital role, from the hearty chicken to the bright, fresh vegetables, and the rich, creamy feta sauce that ties it all together. These essentials ensure your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce will be a balanced mix of flavors, textures, and colors that keep you coming back for more.

  • Chicken thighs or breasts (1½ lbs): Use boneless, skinless pieces cut into 1-inch cubes for juicy, tender bites perfect for grilling.
  • Olive oil (3 tbsp plus 2 tbsp for sauce): Adds richness and moisture with that unmistakable Mediterranean character.
  • Lemon juice and zest: Brings fresh acidity and brightness that wakes up the chicken and the creamy sauce.
  • Garlic (4 cloves total): Infuses a savory depth and aroma that’s absolutely addictive.
  • Dried oregano (1 tsp): Classic herb that offers an earthy, slightly minty note essential to Greek flavors.
  • Paprika (½ tsp): For a subtle smoky warmth that complements the grilled chicken.
  • Salt and black pepper (½ tsp each): Basic seasonings that enhance every single ingredient.
  • Feta cheese (½ cup, crumbled): The star of the creamy sauce, delivering tangy, salty goodness.
  • Greek yogurt (½ cup): Creates a luscious, smooth texture while keeping the sauce light.
  • Cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous (2 cups): Choose your favorite grain as a cozy, satisfying base for the bowls.
  • Cherry tomatoes (½ cup, halved): Adds juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant color.
  • Cucumber (½ cup, diced): A cool, crisp counterpoint that brightens up the bowl.
  • Red onion (¼ cup, thinly sliced): Sharp and slightly pungent for contrast and crunch.
  • Kalamata olives (2 tbsp, sliced): Briny bites that bring a punch of authentic Greek flavor.
  • Fresh parsley or dill: Herbs to garnish and elevate each serving with freshness.

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss the cubed chicken into this marinade and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes. This simple but crucial step infuses the chicken with bright, herby flavors while tenderizing the meat for juicy, flavorful souvlaki.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using a skillet indoors, cook the marinated chicken pieces for 5 to 7 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through. The high heat sears in all those wonderful juices, giving you perfectly charred yet tender chicken every time.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Feta Sauce

While the chicken cooks, blend the crumbled feta, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. This sauce is a game-changer—tangy, rich, and cooling—all at once. It’s the perfect complement to the smoky chicken and fresh veggies in your bowl.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

Begin with a base of your cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous. Arrange the grilled chicken on top, then add halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives for layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color. Finally, drizzle generously with the creamy feta sauce and garnish with fresh herbs to make every bite unforgettable.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce

Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or dill add a burst of color and brightness that lift the entire bowl. A little extra sprinkle of crumbled feta or a wedge of lemon on the side can also enhance the presentation and flavor, making your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce feel like a special occasion every time.

Side Dishes

Pair these bowls with a simple Greek salad or warm pita bread to round out your meal. A side of tzatziki or a light vegetable soup can also complement the flavors beautifully and offer a variety of textures and tastes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken souvlaki skewers family-style with individual bowls for grains and toppings so everyone can build their own. Alternatively, stuff the grilled chicken and veggies into warm pita pockets with dollops of creamy feta sauce for handheld Mediterranean delights. Both approaches make eating these bowls as engaging as they are delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken, grains, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the components separate helps preserve their textures and flavors, so your next meal is just as delightful as the first.

Freezing

The grilled chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Cool completely before freezing in portioned containers. Avoid freezing the creamy feta sauce and fresh veggies, as their texture and flavor will not hold up well after thawing.

Reheating

To reheat your leftovers, gently warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Reheat the grains separately to keep them fluffy. Drizzle with freshly made or thawed creamy feta sauce just before serving for the best experience. Adding fresh garnishes after reheating will restore some of the original freshness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well, but be careful not to overcook them since they’re leaner and can dry out faster than thighs. Marinating helps keep them tender and juicy.

Is it possible to make the creamy feta sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before serving. Just keep in mind fresh garlic flavor may mellow slightly overnight.

What if I don’t have Kalamata olives? Can I substitute?

While Kalamata olives provide a distinctive flavor, you can substitute with other black olives or even green olives, depending on your taste. Just slice them thinly for the best texture in the bowl.

Can I use other herbs for garnish?

Definitely! Parsley and dill are traditional and fresh, but mint or basil can also add a lovely, unexpected twist to your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you choose gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice, this dish is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any store-bought ingredients like marinades or yogurt to be sure.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing quite like the joyful experience of digging into Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce, where every forkful bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe offers a perfect balance of hands-on fun, wholesome ingredients, and mouthwatering taste. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a cherished part of your weeknight dinner rotation!

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