Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Lemon Herb Sauce Recipe

There is something truly irresistible about Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Lemon Herb Sauce. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken marinated in bright citrus and herbs, nestled on a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa, and topped with fresh, crisp veggies and a creamy, zesty lemon herb sauce. Every bite bursts with vibrant Mediterranean flavors that feel both fresh and comforting. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dinner, this recipe is a colorful, satisfying bowl of sunshine you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Lemon Herb Sauce lies in a handful of simple, staple ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays a key role in building layers of flavor—from the tender chicken kissed by lemon and herbs to the creamy sauce flecked with fresh parsley and dill, and the vibrant vegetables that add crunch and brightness.

• 500 g boneless, skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps infuse the marinade with richness and aids in cooking.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Brings that essential citrus tang that brightens everything.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a savory punch that is classic in Greek dishes.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: The herb that defines souvlaki flavor with its earthy, slightly peppery notes.
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Provides subtle woodsy warmth to the marinade.
• Salt and black pepper: To season the chicken perfectly and balance flavors.
• ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt: The creamy base for the refreshing lemon herb sauce.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds extra lemony aroma and zing to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped: Brightens the sauce with herby freshness.
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped: Gives the sauce a distinctive Mediterranean flair.
• 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa: Acts as a hearty, neutral base to soak up the flavors.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1 cup cucumber, diced: Brings a cooling crunch that balances the savory chicken.
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced: Offers a sharp bite and beautiful purple hue.
• ¼ cup Kalamata olives, halved: Gives briny depth and a classic Greek touch.

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Lemon Herb Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss the chicken pieces to coat them evenly in this fragrant marinade. Let the chicken soak up these flavors for at least 30 minutes—this step is where the magic starts, infusing the meat with that iconic Greek taste that will make your bowl come alive.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat to get a nice sear. Cook the marinated chicken pieces for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through. The result should be juicy chicken with a slight char, adding a wonderful texture contrast to your bowl.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Herb Sauce

While the chicken cooks, mix together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, freshly chopped parsley and dill, plus salt and pepper in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and creamy. This sauce is like a cool, tangy hug for your souvlaki chicken, elevating the whole dish with its fresh-herb brightness and creamy texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Divide the cooked rice or quinoa evenly into your bowls as a base. Then, artfully layer the golden chicken pieces on top. Scatter halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives around the bowl to add bursts of color, texture, and classic Mediterranean flavor. Finally, drizzle each bowl generously with the luscious lemon herb sauce to tie everything together.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Lemon Herb Sauce warm. Each bite combines juicy chicken, fresh veggies, plump olives, tangy sauce, and tender grains—a perfect harmony that will have you savoring every mouthful.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Lemon Herb Sauce

Garnishes

A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese or a few extra sprigs of fresh parsley can add a lovely finishing touch. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can also enhance brightness and richness. These simple garnishes turn your bowl into a vibrant and inviting feast.

Side Dishes

Pair your bowls with warm pita bread or crunchy garlic pita chips for dipping into the lemon herb sauce. A classic Greek salad makes for a refreshing side, or serve alongside roasted Mediterranean vegetables for a heartier meal. These accompaniments complement the flavors without overwhelming the dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual gathering, serve the souvlaki chicken on skewers over the bowl to showcase their grilled appeal. Use colorful ceramic bowls to make the vibrant ingredients pop visually. You can even turn the bowl into a wrap by rolling the chicken and toppings in a warm flatbread for a fun handheld option. Presentation can keep this classic feeling fresh and exciting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover components separately to maintain freshness: keep the cooked chicken, grains, and vegetables in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The lemon herb sauce should be refrigerated as well, ideally in a sealed jar or small container. This way, everything stays fresh and ready to reassemble quickly for a speedy lunch or dinner.

Freezing

While the chicken can be frozen after cooking, the fresh vegetables and lemon herb sauce are best made fresh to preserve their vibrant textures and flavors. Store cooked chicken in freezer-safe containers for up to three months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, so it stays juicy and tender. Avoid overheating to keep it from drying out. Reheat grains separately and add fresh vegetables just before serving to retain their crispness. Drizzle with freshly made lemon herb sauce or give the stored sauce a good whisk before using again.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Lemon Herb Sauce work wonderfully with pork, lamb, or even firm fish like swordfish. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein is perfectly done.

Is there a vegetarian version of this bowl?

Yes! Swap the chicken for grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms. You can also add chickpeas or halloumi cheese for extra protein and texture, then top with the same delicious lemon herb sauce.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate. If you have more time, a few hours or even overnight in the fridge will make the chicken even more flavorful and tender.

Can I make the lemon herb sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be prepared up to two days in advance and kept refrigerated in an airtight container. Give it a good stir before serving to refresh the flavors.

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

Cooked rice or quinoa are both excellent options. Rice offers a fluffy and neutral base, while quinoa adds nuttiness and a boost of protein. Feel free to use whichever you prefer or have on hand.

Final Thoughts

Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Lemon Herb Sauce are one of those dishes that feel like a little celebration every time you make them. They are vibrant, fresh, and packed with flavor yet easy to prepare—a perfect combination for any occasion. I hope you enjoy creating and sharing this recipe as much as I do; once you try it, it might just become your new favorite go-to meal too!

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