If you’ve been craving a vibrant, wholesome meal that explodes with fresh Mediterranean flavors, look no further than these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Yogurt Sauce. Juicy marinated chicken, crisp veggies, and herby garlic yogurt sauce all get piled onto a cozy bed of grains for a bowl that’s as satisfying as it is colorful. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crew on a busy weeknight or just need a burst of sunshine on your lunch break, this dish never fails to hit the spot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something magical about how these simple yet essential ingredients come together in Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Yogurt Sauce. Every component shines—whether it’s the zingy lemon, creamy yogurt, or just-picked veggies—and layers in that authentic, sunny flavor only Mediterranean cooking can offer.
- Chicken thighs or breasts: Choose boneless, skinless pieces for juicy, tender bites that soak up every bit of marinade.
- Olive oil: Adds richness to both the marinade and the sauce, infusing everything with a fruity, peppery note.
- Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the chicken and sauce with zesty acidity—always use freshly squeezed if you can!
- Garlic: Gives a punchy, aromatic kick in both the marinade and the yogurt sauce.
- Dried oregano: This classic Greek herb layers in earthiness and a bit of lemon-pepper essence.
- Paprika: Adds subtle sweetness and gorgeous color to the souvlaki.
- Salt and black pepper: Season boldly for maximum flavor in every bite.
- Greek yogurt: The foundation of that heavenly, creamy garlic sauce—full fat is best!
- Rice, quinoa, or couscous: Choose your favorite grain for a fluffy, satisfying base.
- Cherry tomatoes: Their juiciness and sweetness make each forkful pop with freshness.
- Cucumber: Adds that cool, crunchy, and refreshing element that balances bold flavors.
- Red onion: Thin slivers bring a savory sharpness that sets off the richness of the chicken.
- Kalamata olives: These briny beauties are the Mediterranean in a bite.
- Crumbled feta cheese: Creamy, salty feta adds classic Greek tang and creaminess.
- Fresh parsley or dill: A sprinkling on top makes every bowl feel straight from a seaside taverna.
How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Add the chicken, cut into bite-sized cubes, and toss until each piece is glistening and coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time (even overnight), the flavors deepen beautifully. This step is the soul of any great Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Yogurt Sauce: don’t rush it if you can help it!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat up your grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat until it’s good and hot. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers if you’re grilling, or just add them straight into the pan. Let each side sear for about 4 to 5 minutes, turning until the chicken is golden and irresistibly aromatic, cooked right through with that little bit of char we all adore. Set aside and resist nibbling until you assemble those bowls!
Step 3: Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
While the chicken sizzles, whip up your super easy garlic yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, finely grated garlic (a microplane is perfect for this!), a splash of lemon juice, olive oil, and a generous pinch of salt. Mix it all up until smooth. Stick it in the fridge; the chill will help those garlic and lemon flavors meld, creating a creamy, dreamy drizzle for the Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Yogurt Sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Time for the fun part! Lay down a base of steamed rice, fluffy quinoa, or couscous in deep bowls. Top generously with the tender grilled chicken souvlaki, scattering over the halved cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, paper-thin slices of red onion, and a handful of briny Kalamata olives. Don’t forget a shower of crumbled feta and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill to finish. This colorful assembly is what makes Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Yogurt Sauce so special—every forkful is a new adventure.
Step 5: Serve
Just before digging in, drizzle everything lavishly with the garlic yogurt sauce and add a final flourish of fresh herbs. Serve while the chicken is warm and the veggies are cool and crisp for the ultimate contrast. These bowls are best enjoyed communal-style, shared at a table with your favorite people!
How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
Garnishes
The right garnishes elevate these bowls from delicious to dazzling. A sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley not only brings color but also a pop of sharp, grassy flavor. For a burst of brightness, add extra lemon wedges on the side—just let guests squeeze as they please. A final drizzle of good olive oil or a dusting of smoked paprika can also make your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Yogurt Sauce look restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
While these bowls are plenty satisfying on their own, you can round out the meal with some classic Greek-inspired sides. Light, pillowy pita bread is perfect for scooping up extra sauce or tucking in bites of chicken. A simple Greek salad, loaded with more tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, echoes the flavors in your bowls for a refreshing, cohesive spread.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, why not serve everything family-style? Arrange the chicken, veggies, and grains on a big platter, letting everyone build their perfect bowl. For lunchbox meal prep, layer the grains and veggies in glass jars and pack the sauce and herbs in small containers to add just before eating—guaranteed to make any desk feel like a Greek island getaway!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Yogurt Sauce are the kind you’ll look forward to the next day. Keep the components separated in airtight containers in the fridge: chicken stays juicy, veggies crisp, and sauce wonderfully thick. Assemble just before eating to preserve each texture at its best.
Freezing
If you want to stash some for a future meal, freeze the cooked chicken souvlaki pieces in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. It’s best not to freeze the veggies or the yogurt sauce, as they can lose their texture and flavor once thawed. Instead, prep these fresh on serving day for top-notch bowls.
Reheating
To reheat the chicken, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until hot, being careful not to dry it out. Grain bases like rice or quinoa also reheat beautifully. Always add the cold veggies and the garlic yogurt sauce after everything else is hot, to keep that signature crisp-cool, saucy contrast alive.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just as well as thighs in this recipe, though thighs tend to be a bit juicier and less likely to dry out. If using breasts, keep an eye on cooking times and don’t overcook. Whichever you pick, you’ll end up with delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Yogurt Sauce!
What’s the best grain to use as a base?
The base is totally up to your preference. Fluffy rice gives you that classic comfort, quinoa adds a nutty protein boost, and couscous keeps things quick and light. All three soak up the garlic yogurt sauce beautifully, so you really can’t go wrong.
Can I make the garlic yogurt sauce ahead?
Yes—you can make the garlic yogurt sauce up to three days in advance and store it in the fridge. In fact, the flavors deepen as it sits, making your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Yogurt Sauce even more irresistible when you’re ready to serve.
What other vegetables work well in these bowls?
Feel free to get creative! Roasted bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or even shredded lettuce can be delicious additions. Seasonal vegetables add color and allow you to personalize your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Yogurt Sauce to your family’s tastes.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the yogurt sauce?
You bet! Swap the Greek yogurt with a creamy unsweetened plant-based yogurt (such as coconut or almond). Add a tiny squeeze of lemon for tang and adjust the salt to taste—it’ll still be a knockout sauce for your souvlaki bowls.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a meal that brings together bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and pure Mediterranean joy, these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Yogurt Sauce are your ticket. Whether you’re a longtime souvlaki fan or just discovering this Greek favorite, give this recipe a try and watch it become a staple for busy nights, friendly gatherings, or anytime you need a bowlful of sunshine!
