Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Feta Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that transports you straight to the sunny Mediterranean coast, these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Feta Sauce are an absolute must-try. This dish brings together tender, marinated chicken grilled to perfection, fresh crunchy veggies, and a luscious garlic feta sauce that ties every bite together with zing and creaminess. Packed with wholesome ingredients and bold flavors, this recipe is the perfect weeknight dinner that feels special yet comes together with ease. You’ll find yourself coming back to this bowl again and again, whether for a quick lunch or a relaxed weekend feast.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh ingredients create the heart and soul of these bowls. Each element plays a crucial part—from the juicy chicken thighs that soak up the zesty marinade to the vibrant veggies that add crisp texture and color, and the creamy garlic feta sauce that elevates every mouthful. It’s all about balance and brightness here, making sure every bite sings.

• Chicken thighs or breasts: Thighs are juicier and more flavorful, but breasts work well for a leaner option.
• Olive oil: Adds richness to the marinade and sauce, giving that authentic Mediterranean goodness.
• Lemon juice: Provides essential acidity, brightening the chicken and the sauce alike.
• Garlic: Finely minced in marinade and grated in sauce, this energizes the dish with aromatic depth.
• Dried oregano and paprika: Classic Greek spices that pack a mild herbal and smoky punch.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the natural flavors.
• Greek yogurt: Bases the creamy garlic feta sauce with tangy smoothness.
• Feta cheese: Crumbled into the sauce for salty, crumbly richness.
• Cooked rice, quinoa, or lemon rice: Acts as a hearty, satisfying base to hold all the toppings.
• Cherry tomatoes and cucumber: Bright, fresh, and crunchy contrast to the warm chicken.
• Red onion: Thinly sliced for a sharp bite and lovely color.
• Kalamata olives (optional): Provide a salty, briny boost where you want it.
• Fresh parsley or dill: Adds a garden-fresh herbal finish and garnish.

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Feta Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Toss your chicken thighs or breasts in this bright, fragrant marinade, making sure every piece is well coated. Let the chicken soak up all those flavors for at least 30 minutes, though if you have time, a few hours or even overnight in the fridge will take the taste to the next level.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat to get that perfect sear. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes per side until it develops a golden crust and is cooked through. After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes—this helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat tender when you slice it.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Feta Sauce

While the chicken rests, whip up the sauce. Combine the Greek yogurt, crumbled feta cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, and grated garlic in a blender or bowl. Add a few tablespoons of water to thin the sauce to your desired consistency. Blend or whisk until creamy and smooth, then season with a little black pepper to taste. This sauce is the magic that will bring the whole bowl together with its tangy, garlicky, and salty richness.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Divide cooked rice, quinoa, or lemon-infused rice evenly among your serving bowls. Top each with sliced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives if you like that briny hit. Drizzle generously with the garlic feta sauce and finish by sprinkling fresh parsley or dill over the top. The colors and textures will be incredible!

Step 5: Final Touches and Serve

For an extra zest, serve with lemon wedges on the side so everyone can add their own splash of brightness. These bowls are as vibrant and joyful to eat as they are to look at — perfect for sharing or a nourishing solo meal.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Feta Sauce

Garnishes

The fresh herb garnish of parsley or dill adds a burst of green that’s as lovely on the eyes as it is on the palate. Optional Kalamata olives add salty complexity, but if you’re not a fan you can leave them out or substitute with pepperoncini for a gentle heat. A wedge of lemon serves double duty, bringing bright acidity that can lift every bite.

Side Dishes

While these bowls are a complete meal on their own, they pair beautifully with light Mediterranean sides. Think warm pita bread for scooping, a Greek village salad, or simple grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers to complement the rich flavors of the chicken and sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

To make your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Feta Sauce even more fun, try serving the components deconstructed buffet style for guests to build their own. Or turn it into a wrap by rolling the ingredients in flatbreads for a portable, hand-held version of the same satisfying flavors. Either way, it’s bound to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your bowls are assembled, store any leftovers by keeping the chicken, vegetables, and rice in airtight containers separately in the refrigerator. The garlic feta sauce should also be refrigerated in its own container to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken and rice separately for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing the fresh vegetables and sauce, as their texture and flavor change upon thawing. Thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge when ready to use.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken and rice gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, ideally covered to keep moisture in. Add a drizzle of olive oil or lemon juice after reheating to refresh the flavors. Keep the garlic feta sauce chilled and add it fresh when serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just fine though they tend to be leaner and less tender than thighs. To avoid dryness, keep an eye on cooking time and consider marinating longer for extra moisture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it definitely can be. Just be sure to use gluten-free grains like rice or quinoa and check that any packaged ingredients like feta cheese don’t contain additives with gluten.

How can I make the garlic feta sauce less tangy?

If you find the sauce too tangy, add a little more olive oil or a pinch of sugar to mellow the sourness while balancing the flavors perfectly.

Can I prepare this recipe for a party or larger group?

Yes! This recipe scales up beautifully. Just multiply the ingredients and consider grilling the chicken in batches. Setting up a build-your-own bowl station makes it easy and fun for everyone.

What other proteins work well in this bowl?

If you want a change from chicken, try lamb, pork, or even firm tofu marinated and cooked similarly. Each offers a delicious twist while keeping that Greek-inspired flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

You’re going to love how these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Feta Sauce come together so easily yet deliver a rich tapestry of flavors and textures in every bite. They’re the kind of meal that feels fresh and light but still deeply satisfying—perfect for any day of the week. Give this recipe a go, and watch it become a cherished staple in your regular rotation. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!