The Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowl with Spicy Lemon Feta Sauce is an absolute game-changer when you want a meal that bursts with vibrant, fresh Mediterranean flavors while being satisfyingly wholesome. This bowl brings together tender, herb-infused chicken cubes grilled to perfection paired with a colorful mix of fresh veggies, all elevated by a creamy and zesty spicy lemon feta sauce that adds a wonderful tang and kick. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress loved ones, this recipe blends simple ingredients into a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowl with Spicy Lemon Feta Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in the Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowl with Spicy Lemon Feta Sauce is carefully selected for its role in building layers of flavor, freshness, and texture. From earthy spices to bright, juicy vegetables, each component plays its part in creating this unforgettable bowl.

Chicken breasts (2 lbs): The star protein, cubed for even marination and cooking.
Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps infuse the marinade’s flavors.
Lemon juice (juice of 1 lemon): Brings brightness and acidity to balance the spices.
Garlic (4 cloves total): Minced to add robust, savory aromatics to the marinade and sauce.
Dried oregano (1 tablespoon): Brings authentic Greek herbal notes essential to souvlaki.
Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds smokiness and mild warmth to the chicken.
Ground cumin (1/2 teaspoon): Provides earthy depth and complexity.
Salt and black pepper: Fundamental for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
Cooked basmati rice or quinoa (2 cups): A fluffy, mild-tasting base that complements the toppings.
Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved): Juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant color.
Cucumber (1, diced): Adds cool, crisp crunch for freshness.
Red onion (1/2, thinly sliced): Sharpness and slight bite for contrast.
Kalamata olives (1/4 cup, sliced): Salty, briny punches that deepen the flavor profile.
Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Herbal brightness to tie everything together.
Feta cheese (1/2 cup, crumbled): Creamy, tangy cornerstone of the spicy lemon feta sauce.
Plain Greek yogurt (1/2 cup): Adds a smooth, cooling base to mellow the spice.
Chili flakes (1/2 teaspoon): Deliver the perfect amount of heat in the sauce — adjust to your spice tolerance.

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowl with Spicy Lemon Feta Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss the cubed chicken pieces in this vibrant marinade and let them soak up the flavors for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial because it infuses the meat with the classic Greek herbs and spices, ensuring every bite bursts with savory goodness.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Next, thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers for that authentic souvlaki feel; if using wooden skewers, soak them beforehand to prevent burning. Grill the skewers over medium-high heat or cook them in a hot skillet, turning occasionally, for about 8 to 10 minutes. You’re looking for a gorgeous golden crust and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to guarantee juicy, perfectly cooked chicken that holds its tenderness.

Step 3: Prepare the Spicy Lemon Feta Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, whip up the irresistible spicy lemon feta sauce. In a bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, creamy Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, chili flakes, minced garlic, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix it until you get a creamy but slightly textured sauce. This sauce adds a brilliant zesty cooling effect with just a hint of heat, perfectly balancing the smoky, herbaceous chicken.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

Grab your bowls and start with a generous scoop of cooked basmati rice or quinoa as the base, which soaks up all the fabulous flavors. Then, pile on the beautifully grilled chicken souvlaki, juicy cherry tomatoes, refreshing cucumbers, thinly sliced red onions, briny kalamata olives, and sprinkle fresh parsley across the top. This colorful assembly makes every bite exciting and fresh.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Finally, drizzle the spicy lemon feta sauce generously over the assembled bowls. If you want an extra brightness boost, add a wedge of lemon on the side for squeezing. Serve immediately to enjoy the textural contrasts and the vibrant, lively flavors at their best.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowl with Spicy Lemon Feta Sauce

Garnishes

For garnishing, don’t hold back on fresh herbs like dill or extra chopped parsley — they brighten the dish wonderfully. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a few capers can add exciting crunchy or briny pops. Thin ribbons of lemon zest on top also boost aroma and visual appeal, making the bowl even more enticing.

Side Dishes

This Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowl with Spicy Lemon Feta Sauce works beautifully alongside classic Greek sides like warm pita bread, a crisp Greek salad, or even grilled vegetables such as zucchini and eggplant. You can also pair it with a simple tzatziki dip for a creamy, cooling side that enhances the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Present this bowl in a rustic ceramic bowl or even build it into a pita pocket for a handheld version that’s great on the go. For gatherings, set up a DIY bowl station with the chicken, bases, veggies, and sauce so everyone can customize their own. Layering the ingredients in a glass jar is another pretty way to serve it for picnics or lunchboxes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowl with Spicy Lemon Feta Sauce components can be stored separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the fridge. Keep the chicken, base, veggies, and sauce apart to preserve freshness and texture.

Freezing

The cooked chicken souvlaki freezes very well. Place the grilled chicken pieces in a freezer-safe pack or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the fresh veggies or sauce, as their texture may suffer once thawed.

Reheating

When reheating, gently warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave until hot, being careful not to dry it out. Serve over fresh rice or quinoa warmed separately, then add fresh veggies and the spicy lemon feta sauce cold or at room temperature to maintain their vibrant crunch and creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and even more flavorful, which works beautifully in the Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowl with Spicy Lemon Feta Sauce. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.

How spicy is the spicy lemon feta sauce?

The sauce has a mild to moderate heat from the chili flakes, which you can easily adjust up or down depending on how much you like spice. It also balances wonderfully with the cool yogurt and creamy feta.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the grilled chicken for grilled halloumi or roasted chickpeas, and you’ll still have a delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowl with Spicy Lemon Feta Sauce experience that’s hearty and satisfying.

What’s the best way to cook this if I don’t have a grill?

You can cook the marinated chicken in a hot skillet or under a broiler with great results. Just make sure you get a nice golden crust on all sides and cook it evenly through.

Is this recipe meal-prep friendly?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Prepare the chicken, grain base, and sauce ahead, then assemble fresh before eating or pack components separately for freshness throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with the Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowl with Spicy Lemon Feta Sauce. It’s a vibrant, comforting, and incredibly tasty dish that I’m sure will find a special place in your recipe rotation. The combination of smoky chicken, crisp veggies, and that luscious, zesty feta sauce makes every bite memorable. Give it a try and bring a little sunshine to your table!