If you love vibrant flavors and wholesome meals that come together effortlessly, Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki Sauce are about to become your new go-to dish. This recipe brings together tender, marinated chicken grilled to perfection, fresh veggies, creamy feta, and that irresistibly cool and tangy tzatziki sauce, all served over a comforting bed of rice or quinoa. It’s a bright, colorful, and satisfying bowl that feels like a Mediterranean vacation on your plate, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to unlocking the deliciousness of these bowls. Each component plays a vital role in balancing taste, texture, and color, making this dish both hearty and refreshing.

Boneless, skinless chicken breast (1 lb): Cubed for even grilling and perfect tenderness.
Olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps tenderize the chicken during marination.
Lemon juice (2 tbsp): Brings a bright, zesty punch that enhances every bite.
Garlic (3 cloves): Minced to infuse savory depth in both chicken and tzatziki sauce.
Dried oregano (1 tsp): Classic Greek herb that gives authentic flavor.
Salt and pepper: To taste, seasoning that brings out all the flavors.
Cooked rice or quinoa (2 cups): The hearty base that absorbs all the juices and makes the bowl filling.
Cherry tomatoes (1 cup): Halved for bursts of sweetness and vivid color.
Cucumber (1/2 cup diced + 1/2 grated for sauce): Adds refreshing crunch in the bowl and creamy freshness in the tzatziki.
Red onion (1/4 cup thinly sliced): Provides a sharp, tangy bite to complement the other vegetables.
Kalamata olives (1/4 cup, pitted): Salty and briny, these olives bring that unmistakable Greek character.
Feta cheese (1/4 cup crumbled): Creamy and slightly tangy, perfect for topping.
Greek yogurt (1/2 cup): The creamy base for the tzatziki sauce that cools and balances the flavors.

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki Sauce

Step 1: Marinate and Prepare the Chicken

Start by combining the chicken cubes with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Letting the chicken soak up these flavors for at least 30 minutes is essential to achieve that tender, juicy, and flavorful bite that makes the dish so irresistible.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Heat up your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Cook the marinated chicken cubes for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You’ll want to get a beautiful char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and cooked through. The charred bits add a smoky depth that complements the bright ingredients perfectly.

Step 3: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

While the chicken is grilling, mix together Greek yogurt, grated and drained cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This tzatziki sauce is creamy, fresh, and packed with flavor — the perfect cool contrast to the smoky grilled chicken in your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki Sauce.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Lay down a base of cooked rice or quinoa in your serving bowls. Layer on the grilled chicken, then scatter cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Finally, generously drizzle your homemade tzatziki sauce over everything. The contrast of warm grilled chicken and fresh, creamy toppings makes each bite an absolute delight.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki Sauce

Garnishes

To elevate your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki Sauce even further, consider adding fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of dried oregano on top. A wedge of lemon on the side invites an extra splash of citrus, brightening up flavors just before eating. These simple garnishes add fresh aroma and a pop of color that makes the dish feel extra special.

Side Dishes

Pair your bowls with some warm pita bread or a crisp Greek salad for a fuller meal experience. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant with a drizzle of olive oil and herbs make excellent accompaniments to complement the Mediterranean vibes of the dish. These sides keep the meal light, fresh, and beautifully balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests or just have fun with presentation, try serving your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki Sauce in hollowed-out bell peppers or mini pita pockets for handheld bites. You can also arrange the ingredients as a colorful platter and let everyone assemble their own bowls at the table. It’s interactive, visually stunning, and perfect for sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken, vegetables, and rice or quinoa in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This way, everything stays fresh and won’t get soggy. The tzatziki sauce should also be kept in its own container to maintain its creamy texture and bright flavor.

Freezing

While the grilled chicken cubes freeze well and can be stored in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months, the tzatziki sauce is best made fresh as freezing can alter its texture and separation may occur. Prepare individual portions of chicken if you like to thaw quickly and add fresh veggies and sauce when ready to eat.

Reheating

Reheat grilled chicken gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid drying it out. Warm rice or quinoa separately, then assemble with fresh or refrigerated veggies and a drizzle of freshly made tzatziki sauce for the best experience. This ensures every bite remains flavorful and texturally pleasing.

FAQs

Can I substitute chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki Sauce are versatile. You can swap chicken for lamb, shrimp, or even tofu — just adjust cooking times accordingly. Each brings its own twist but pairs beautifully with the tzatziki and veggies.

Is it okay to use store-bought tzatziki sauce?

Yes, store-bought tzatziki can work in a pinch, but homemade tzatziki is fresher and more flavorful. Making it yourself lets you control the garlic level and texture, elevating the authenticity of the bowls.

Can I prepare this meal vegan or dairy-free?

For a vegan take on Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki Sauce, substitute chicken with grilled vegetables or marinated tofu and replace Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative to make a vegan tzatziki. Adjust seasoning as needed for a delicious plant-based version.

What type of rice or quinoa is best?

Both white or brown rice work great, and quinoa offers a protein-packed alternative with a slightly nutty flavor. Use whichever you prefer or have on hand; just ensure it’s well cooked and fluffy to absorb the toppings’ flavors beautifully.

How long does the marinade time affect the flavor?

The longer the chicken marinates, the deeper the flavors penetrate, making it more tender and flavorful. While 30 minutes suffices, marinating up to 2-3 hours (or even overnight) amps up the lemony, garlicky goodness wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki Sauce are truly one of those dishes that make you feel like you’re treating yourself without any fuss. Vibrant, fresh, and packed with flavors, they’re perfect for any day of the week when you crave something wholesome and satisfying. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy a little taste of the Mediterranean magic right at home!