Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant, satisfying meal that brings the sunny flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table, then you’ve got to try these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce. This dish effortlessly balances tender, juicy chicken marinated with fragrant herbs and spices, perfectly paired with a creamy, tangy yogurt sauce bursting with fresh herbs. Every spoonful is a delightful combination of textures and colors—from the crisp cucumbers and sweet cherry tomatoes to the salty feta and briny olives—making it not just a feast for your taste buds but also for your eyes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh and simple ingredients is the secret to making these bowls shine. Each component brings something special, from the juicy citrus marinade to the vibrant veggies that add crunch and color.

• 500 g boneless, skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and easy eating.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps tenderize the chicken.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brightens up the marinade and balances flavors beautifully.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant, savory punch.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Greek herb that offers earthy warmth.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smoky depth that’s simply irresistible.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning everything perfectly.
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt: The creamy base of the herbed yogurt sauce, packed with protein.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or parsley: Fresh herbs keep the sauce vibrant and aromatic.
• 1 cup cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous: Acts as a hearty grain base to soak up all the delicious flavors.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds juicy sweetness and eye-catching color.
• 1 cup cucumber, diced: Offers crispness and cool freshness against the warm chicken.
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced: Gives a sharp, zesty contrast.
• ¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved: Infuses salty, fruity brininess.
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese: Rich, tangy, and salty—no Greek bowl is complete without this.
• Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish: Adds a final pop of freshness and color.

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces in this vibrant marinade, coating them thoroughly. Letting the chicken soak up these flavors for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, will ensure every piece is bursting with the bright, savory notes that make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce so memorable.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot—this helps get that lovely golden crust. Cook the marinated chicken pieces for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, until they’re fully cooked through and have a mouthwatering caramelized color. The high heat locks in the juices, giving you tender bites with just a hint of char.

Step 3: Prepare the Herbed Yogurt Sauce

While the chicken cooks, whip up the herbed yogurt sauce. Mix plain Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, your choice of freshly chopped dill or parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth. This sauce is cool, creamy, and packed with fresh, herby flavor that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Divide your base—whether it’s fluffy rice, nutty quinoa, or light couscous—among your serving bowls. Layer on the warm souvlaki chicken, then scatter the crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta. Drizzle generously with the herbed yogurt sauce and finish with a sprinkling of fresh parsley or dill for that lovely fragrance and extra pop of green.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce immediately, while the chicken is warm and juicy, and the fresh vegetables are crisp and inviting. This combination of hot and cold, creamy and crunchy, creates an incredibly satisfying meal that everyone around your table will love.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or dill works wonders as garnish, lending a fragrant lift and beautiful green contrast. A light drizzle of extra olive oil or a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top adds an extra layer of flavor that makes each bite even more exciting.

Side Dishes

Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce are wonderful on their own, but pairing them with crispy pita bread or a refreshing Greek salad doubles the Mediterranean delight. A side of roasted lemon potatoes or grilled vegetables can also round out the meal perfectly, providing hearty comfort without overwhelming the flavors in your bowl.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to take things up a notch, serve the bowls in individual pita pockets or create vibrant wraps using large lettuce leaves. You can even prepare a mezze platter with components from the bowls for a shareable feast that invites everyone to build their own souvlaki bites. The playful presentation keeps mealtime fun and interactive!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken, veggies, and grains separate from the yogurt sauce if possible, to preserve freshness and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken and grains separately but avoid freezing the fresh vegetables and yogurt sauce, as their texture changes with freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat gently.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken and grains in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep them moist. Once hot, assemble your bowl fresh with crisp veggies and a dollop of herbed yogurt sauce for that perfect balance you love.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken in Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce?

Absolutely! Pork tenderloin or lamb work wonderfully with the marinade. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness and type of meat to ensure it stays juicy and tender.

Is the herbed yogurt sauce suitable for those who are lactose intolerant?

The sauce uses Greek yogurt, which is lower in lactose than regular yogurt, but if you’re highly sensitive, consider using a lactose-free yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like coconut or almond yogurt.

What’s the best grain to use in this recipe?

It really depends on your preference! Rice is classic and neutral, quinoa gives a nutty texture and extra protein, while couscous adds a delightful lightness. All soak up the flavors beautifully.

Can I make the marinade and sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the marinade can be made and the chicken marinated the night before for even more flavor. The herbed yogurt sauce also tastes great if prepared a few hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

How spicy is this dish?

Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce have a gentle warmth from the smoked paprika but aren’t spicy hot. You can always add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade if you crave a bit more heat.

Final Thoughts

Making Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Yogurt Sauce is like inviting sunshine to your dinner plate—fresh, flavorful, and simply joyful to eat. It’s one of those dishes that’s both comforting and exciting, perfect for a weeknight meal or when you want to impress guests with minimal fuss. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and enjoy every colorful, delicious bite as much as I do!

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