Name: Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls & Garlic Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp ground cumin; ½ tsp smoked paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste; ½ cup Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 1 clove garlic, finely minced; 1 tsp lemon juice; 1 tsp olive oil; Salt to taste; 2 cups cooked basmati or jasmine rice (or couscous); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; ½ cucumber, diced; ¼ red onion, thinly sliced; ½ cup Kalamata olives; ½ cup crumbled feta cheese; 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill; Optional: warm pita wedges or lemon wedges for serving

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant meal that bursts with fresh flavors and satisfying textures, these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls & Garlic Sauce are exactly what you need. Tender, marinated chicken cubes charred to perfection nestle atop fluffy rice, surrounded by juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, briny olives, and tangy feta. The magic happens when you drizzle the rich, creamy garlic sauce over the whole ensemble—instantly elevating this dish to an irresistible Greek street-food favorite that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.

Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls & Garlic Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity; every ingredient has a distinct role, whether it’s bringing brightness, savoriness, or texture to the plate. These essentials come together seamlessly to create a medley of flavors that feel both fresh and comforting.

Chicken breasts: Cubed for quick, even cooking and perfect bite-sized pieces.
Olive oil: Adds healthy fat and helps tenderize the chicken while enhancing flavor.
Lemon juice: Provides acidity that cuts through richness and adds zing.
Garlic: Minced for a fragrant punch in both marinade and sauce.
Dried oregano: A classic Greek herb that imparts an earthy aroma.
Ground cumin and smoked paprika: Bring warmth and subtle smokiness to the chicken.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all flavors.
Greek yogurt and mayonnaise: Combined to create a creamy, tangy garlic sauce with just the right richness.
Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives: Fresh vegetables and olives add crunch, acidity, and saltiness.
Feta cheese: Crumbled on top for a salty, creamy finish that’s unmistakably Greek.
Fresh parsley or dill: A final herbaceous touch that brightens the entire bowl.
Basmati or jasmine rice (or couscous): The perfect fluffy base to soak up all those fantastic juices and sauces.
Optional warm pita or lemon wedges: Traditional accompaniments that complete the dish.

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls & Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

This step is where all the flavor-building begins. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss the chicken cubes thoroughly so every piece is coated with this vibrant marinade. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply—trust me, this patience rewards you with juicy, flavorful chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat for the best searing action. If you like, thread the chicken onto skewers to keep that classic souvlaki feel. Grill the chicken for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until beautifully golden and cooked through. The marinade caramelizes slightly, giving each bite that crave-worthy smoky char. Don’t rush this part, as that beautiful crust adds so much character.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

While the chicken cooks, whip together the luscious garlic sauce. In a small bowl, blend Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, finely minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt until silky smooth and creamy. Chill this mixture until serving time to let the flavors meld. This sauce adds a refreshing, tangy creaminess that balances perfectly with the smoky chicken and fresh veggies.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Now comes the rewarding layering. Spoon cooked basmati or jasmine rice, or couscous if you prefer, into bowls. Arrange the grilled chicken on top, then scatter vibrant cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Generously drizzle with the garlic sauce and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or dill. Each bowl is a colorful feast for the eyes and the palate.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls & Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

Enhance your presentation by adding a handful of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill just before serving. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the bowls can brighten flavors even more. For authentic appeal, serve with warm pita wedges that guests can use to scoop up every delicious bite.

Side Dishes

This dish stands well on its own but pairs wonderfully with light sides like a crisp Greek salad or roasted vegetables. Refreshing minted iced tea or sparkling lemon water complement the garlic sauce’s tang and the grilled chicken’s smokiness beautifully for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, consider offering toppings buffet-style, letting everyone build their own Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls & Garlic Sauce masterpiece. You can also serve the chicken skewers on a platter with bowls of toppings and sauce on the side for a vibrant, interactive meal that sparks joy and conversation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover chicken, cooked rice, and garlic sauce into airtight containers and refrigerate promptly. They will remain fresh for up to 3 days, making this dish perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

While fresh is best, the chicken can be frozen after cooking. Store the chicken separately in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze the rice and sauce separately too, as texture can change during freezing and thawing.

Reheating

Gently reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat to keep it tender and avoid drying out. Warm the rice separately in the microwave or on the stove. Add the garlic sauce cold or at room temperature as it tastes freshest this way and adds a cooling contrast to the warm bowl.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer more richness and stay juicy, but adjust cooking time slightly as they may take a bit longer to cook through. Both cuts work wonderfully for your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls & Garlic Sauce.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the garlic sauce?

If you’re out of Greek yogurt, try using sour cream or a thick plain yogurt. Just make sure the consistency is creamy and thick to mimic that signature cooling texture of the sauce.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

The chicken can marinate anywhere from 30 minutes up to 8 hours. Longer marinating allows deeper flavor penetration, but avoid going beyond 8 hours to prevent the citrus from breaking down the meat too much.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free rice or quinoa for the base and skip the pita wedges or choose gluten-free pita options. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Is Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls & Garlic Sauce good for meal prep?

Definitely! This dish holds up well in the fridge and is perfect for pre-making lunches or dinners. Just keep the sauce separate until ready to eat to maintain freshness and texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly heartwarming about the flavors of Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls & Garlic Sauce—the balance of smoky, tangy, creamy, and fresh notes all dancing together in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this dish offers a delicious escape to the Mediterranean that’s both satisfying and simple. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your kitchen rotation!