Name: Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 3 tbsp olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Zest of 1 lemon; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp paprika; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ cup crumbled feta cheese; ½ cup Greek yogurt; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 cups cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous; ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved; ½ cup cucumber, diced; ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp Kalamata olives, sliced; Fresh parsley or dill, chopped

Jump to Recipe

If you are craving a dish that bursts with vibrant Mediterranean flavors and satisfying textures, look no further than these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce. This recipe brings together tender, marinated chicken grilled to perfection, fresh and colorful veggies, and a luscious, tangy feta sauce that elevates every bite. It’s the kind of meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend feast with friends and family. Every element contributes to a harmony of bright, savory, and creamy notes that you’ll want to return to again and again.

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

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simple but essential ingredients, each one making a meaningful contribution to the overall flavor, texture, and beautiful presentation of the dish. The balance between herbs, citrus, and quality proteins is what makes these bowls special.

Chicken thighs or breasts (1½ lbs): Use boneless, skinless pieces cut into cubes for tender, juicy bites that soak up the marinade.
Olive oil (several tablespoons): Adds richness and helps meld the marinade and sauce ingredients for smooth cohesion.
Lemon juice and zest: Brightens the marinade and the feta sauce with a fresh citrus punch.
Garlic (4 cloves): Provides a savory backbone to both the chicken and the creamy feta sauce.
Dried oregano (1 tsp): A classic Greek herb that infuses the chicken with authentic Mediterranean flavor.
Paprika (½ tsp): Adds a subtle smoky depth and warmth to the chicken.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the other flavors.
Feta cheese (½ cup, crumbled): The star of the creamy sauce, delivering its famous tangy and salty personality.
Greek yogurt (½ cup): Creates a silky texture in the sauce and balances feta’s saltiness with its natural creaminess.
Cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous (2 cups): A versatile base that soaks up all the delicious juices and sauce perfectly.
Fresh veggies and olives: Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and Kalamata olives add crunch, sweetness, and briny contrasts.
Fresh parsley or dill: A final flourish of herbaceous brightness for garnish.

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a zesty marinade that infuses the chicken with bold Mediterranean flavors. Toss the cubed chicken pieces in this mixture and pop them into the fridge for 20 to 30 minutes. This step is key since it tenderizes the meat and ensures each bite is bursting with vibrant aroma and taste.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Whether you’re grilling or using a skillet, cook the marinated chicken over medium-high heat until it gets a lovely golden char on the outside and is completely cooked through—about 5 to 7 minutes per side. The slight smokiness from grilling or the caramelization from the skillet adds another scrumptious layer to these already flavorful chicken pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Feta Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, blend crumbled feta, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth and creamy. This sauce is the magic touch that ties the entire bowl together, bringing tangy creaminess that perfectly complements the spiced chicken and fresh veggies.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Use cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous as the foundation. Create a vibrant base with halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives. Top this fresh bed with the warm, juicy chicken. Finally, drizzle liberally with the creamy feta sauce and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or dill on top for an irresistible presentation and pop of flavor.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce

Garnishes

Adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill right before serving really brightens the plate and adds a burst of color and aroma. You might also consider a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a light sprinkle of sumac for extra zing that enhances the overall freshness and complexity of the bowl.

Side Dishes

These bowls make a complete meal on their own, but pairing them with warm pita bread or a crisp Greek salad filled with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and a splash of red wine vinegar can elevate the Mediterranean feast vibe even more. Light roasted vegetables also pair beautifully to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests or just treat yourself, serve the Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce in mason jars or layered glass bowls to showcase the colorful layers. Alternatively, stuff the chicken and veggies into warm pita pockets for handheld, on-the-go souvlaki sandwiches that keep the creamy feta sauce as a luscious spread inside.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce keep beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the sauce separately if possible to preserve its texture and freshness; otherwise, just give it a good stir before serving again.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken portion by itself for up to 2 months, making it easy to pull out for quick meals later. However, it’s best not to freeze the assembled bowls or the creamy feta sauce, as dairy-based sauces may separate and fresh vegetables will lose their crispness.

Reheating

When reheating, gently warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave until just heated through to avoid drying it out. Reheat the rice or grains separately and add fresh veggies and sauce only after warming. This approach keeps all the textures and flavors as vibrant as the first time you made it.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well in this recipe too. Just be mindful not to overcook them, as they can dry out faster than thighs. Marinade time and gentle cooking are key.

Is Greek yogurt necessary for the creamy feta sauce?

Greek yogurt is important because it adds creaminess and tang while balancing the saltiness of the feta. If you want a dairy-free or lighter alternative, try a plant-based yogurt or sour cream substitute, but expect a slight flavor change.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

While the chicken is central to this dish, you could swap in grilled vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and mushrooms for a vegetarian version. The creamy feta sauce still pairs wonderfully with veggies.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

20 to 30 minutes is sufficient to impart wonderful flavor without breaking down the chicken too much. If you have more time, marinating up to 2 hours is fine but avoid going overnight as the lemon can start to “cook” the meat.

What grain is best as the base of these bowls?

It really depends on your preference. Rice is classic and neutral, quinoa adds a slightly nutty flavor and protein boost, and couscous offers a delicate texture. All three soak up the sauce beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Making Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce is like inviting the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean right into your kitchen. The balance of zesty, smoky, creamy, and fresh components comes together to create a bowl that feels as nourishing as it is exciting. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to something special, this recipe is a winner every time. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your go-to meals for its simplicity, flavor, and pure joy.