Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe

If you are looking for a meal that bursts with fresh flavors and vibrant colors while still being wholesome and easy to make, these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Lemon Garlic Sauce are exactly what you need. This recipe brings the taste of Greece right to your kitchen with juicy, marinated chicken cubes grilled to perfection and paired with crisp vegetables and a luscious lemon garlic sauce that ties everything together beautifully. From the tender bites of chicken to the tangy, creamy sauce and the wholesome base of rice or quinoa, every element comes together for a dish that is as satisfying as it is exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients make the magic happen in this recipe. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding zest, texture, or creaminess, creating the perfect balance that makes these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Lemon Garlic Sauce so unforgettable.

• 1.5 lb chicken breasts, cubed: The main protein, tender and juicy when marinated properly.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps infuse flavor during cooking.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a punch of aromatic flavor to the chicken marinade.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Greek herb that brings earthiness and depth to the dish.
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon: Bursting with bright citrus notes that tenderize the chicken and brighten the whole bowl.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient.
• 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa: A hearty base that soaks up the sauce and balances the fresh veggies.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Sweet and juicy, adding pop and color to the bowl.
• 1 cucumber, diced: Cool and crisp, offering refreshing crunch.
• 1/4 cup red onion, sliced: Adds sharpness and a bit of bite to each mouthful.
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt: The creamy foundation of the lemon garlic sauce, bringing tang and moisture.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Enhances the sauce’s citrus zing, perfectly complementing the chicken.
• 1 clove garlic, grated: Provides a subtle, mellow garlic flavor to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Smooths and enriches the lemon garlic sauce.
• Salt, to taste: To season the sauce perfectly.
• Optional fresh parsley or dill: For garnish—adding herbal brightness and a pop of green.

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Lemon Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, lemon zest and juice, and salt and pepper. This simple marinade infuses the meat with brilliant Mediterranean flavors while tenderizing it. Let the chicken sit for at least 10 minutes if you’re short on time, or up to a couple of hours for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken cubes for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally until they are beautifully browned on the outside and cooked through inside. Cooking the chicken this way locks in juices and gives the souvlaki its signature charred, smoky notes.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Garlic Sauce

While your chicken cooks, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, grated garlic, olive oil, and salt until the sauce is smooth and creamy. This lemon garlic sauce is a zesty, cooling complement that brightens the entire dish—perfect for drizzling generously over the bowls.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Place the cooked rice or quinoa at the base of your serving bowls, then layer on the grilled chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and sliced red onion. Finish by drizzling the luscious lemon garlic sauce over every bowl, ensuring you get a bit of tangy creaminess in every bite.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Lemon Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or dill are fantastic garnishes to sprinkle on top. These herbs add a burst of green color and a fresh herbal note that lifts the flavors, making the dish feel even more vibrant and authentic.

Side Dishes

Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Lemon Garlic Sauce shine as a complete meal on their own, but you might want to pair them with warm pita bread or a light Greek salad. These sides enhance the meal’s Mediterranean vibe and create a wholesome dining experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the chicken and veggies wrapped in flatbread with a generous spoonful of the lemon garlic sauce for a handheld souvlaki wrap. Alternatively, layer all ingredients in a mason jar for meal prep or as a charming picnic option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Lemon Garlic Sauce store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken and rice or quinoa separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently. The fresh veggies and sauce are best added fresh to keep the flavors and textures bright.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken and grain base in a skillet or microwave until steaming hot. Add fresh veggies and drizzle with lemon garlic sauce right before serving to enjoy the full, fresh flavor experience once again.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully as well and tend to be juicier, which can add extra richness to your souvlaki bowls.

Is it possible to make the lemon garlic sauce dairy-free?

You can substitute Greek yogurt with a coconut or cashew-based yogurt for a dairy-free version, although the flavor and texture will vary slightly.

What grains work best for the base?

Traditional rice or quinoa are great, but you can also use couscous or bulgur to give the bowls a different texture and flavor profile.

How spicy is this Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Lemon Garlic Sauce dish?

This recipe is naturally mild with bright and zesty flavors, but you can always add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the marinade if you prefer a little heat.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes! The components store well separately, making these bowls perfect for prepping meals for the week. Just assemble and add the sauce right before serving.

Final Thoughts

Once you try these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Lemon Garlic Sauce, I’m confident they’ll earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. They’re fresh, flavorful, and downright addictive with just the right balance of tangy, savory, and bright elements. This recipe is proof that healthy eating never has to be boring. So gather your ingredients, fire up that grill pan, and enjoy a taste of Greece from your own kitchen!

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