Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that is bursting with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, you’ve got to try these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce. This dish combines juicy, tender grilled chicken marinated in Mediterranean spices with fresh vegetables, creamy feta, and a luscious garlicky yogurt sauce that ties everything together beautifully. It’s a satisfying, colorful bowl that brings the best of Greek cuisine right to your table, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a lively weekend feast with friends and family.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the flavor just right starts with simple, fresh ingredients that complement each other perfectly. Each item in this list plays a crucial role—whether it’s adding zest, texture, or that unmistakable Greek character to your bowl.

• Chicken breast (500 g): Cut into bite-sized pieces, this is your tender protein base that soaks up all the delicious marinade flavors.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp): The classic Greek cooking fat that helps the chicken brown beautifully and keeps it juicy.
• Garlic (2 cloves minced + 1 grated): Fresh garlic is key for that punch of savory goodness in both the marinade and the sauce.
• Dried oregano (1 tsp): This herb brings an earthy, aromatic note quintessential to Greek cooking.
• Paprika (½ tsp): Adds a subtle smoky warmth and a hint of color to the chicken.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
• Lemon juice (from ½ lemon + 1 tsp for sauce): The bright acidity balances richness and elevates freshness throughout the dish.
• Cooked rice or couscous (1 cup): A fluffy, neutral grain to soak up all the wonderful juices and sauce.
• Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved): Juicy and sweet, adding a pop of freshness and color.
• Cucumber slices (1 cup): Provide a cool, crisp contrast to the warm chicken and hearty grains.
• Kalamata olives (½ cup): Their briny bite amps up the Mediterranean vibe.
• Red onion (¼ cup, thinly sliced): Brings a sharp bite and crunchiness to the mix.
• Crumbled feta cheese (¼ cup): Creamy, salty, and utterly delicious, no Greek bowl is complete without it.
• Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a burst of green freshness and a beautiful finishing touch.
• Greek yogurt (½ cup): The base of the luscious garlic sauce that makes every bite come alive with tangy creaminess.

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the chicken pieces with olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, pepper, and fresh lemon juice in a bowl. The marinade infuses the chicken with bright, herbaceous, and slightly smoky notes, which are essential for that classic souvlaki character. Letting it sit for 15 to 20 minutes allows the flavors to really sink in, making the chicken burst with flavor once cooked.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat until hot. Cook the marinated chicken pieces for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until nicely golden brown and thoroughly cooked. This technique gives the chicken gorgeous grill marks and a slightly crisp exterior, locking in all the juicy goodness.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, whisk together Greek yogurt, grated garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. This creamy garlic sauce is tangy, cooling, and packed with that irresistible garlic punch, beautifully balancing the savory grilled chicken and crisp vegetables.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Once the chicken is ready, divide your cooked rice or couscous evenly between four bowls. Then layer in the grilled chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, Kalamata olives, thinly sliced red onion, and crumble feta cheese generously on top. This vibrant mix of colors, flavors, and textures creates a bowl that’s exciting to eat and visually stunning as well.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Finish by drizzling the garlicky yogurt sauce all over each bowl and sprinkling fresh parsley on top if you like. Serve immediately for the best experience, enjoying each bite of tender chicken, creamy cheese, crisp veggies, and luscious sauce together with fluffy grains below.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh parsley adds a lovely herbal brightness and a splash of color that brings this bowl to life. A squeeze of extra lemon juice or a sprinkle of smoked paprika over the top can also elevate the flavors even more, making each bite feel bright and fresh.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside warm pita bread to scoop up the chicken and sauce or a crisp Greek salad for a refreshing crunch. A simple tzatziki dip pairs beautifully as an alternative to the garlic sauce, enhancing the Greek theme and adding cool creaminess.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these bowls in rustic wooden bowls or vibrant ceramic dishes to reflect the Mediterranean vibe. Layer ingredients in clear glass bowls for a colorful, layered look or skewer the grilled chicken and serve on the side for a souvlaki-inspired twist that’s fun for sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers from your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the garlic sauce separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the yogurt from separating.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked marinated chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months, but fresh veggies and sauce are best enjoyed fresh. When ready, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to maintain its juiciness and flavor. Avoid microwaving directly, which can make the chicken rubbery. Add fresh veggies and garlic sauce after reheating for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I use thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option if you prefer a richer, more tender texture. Just adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! If you opt for rice or gluten-free couscous, this dish is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I make the garlic sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic sauce a day in advance. Store it covered in the fridge and give it a quick stir before serving. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even tastier.

What can I substitute for Kalamata olives?

If you’re not a fan of Kalamata olives, try substituting with green olives or capers for that salty, briny kick. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to your taste.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is mildly spiced with paprika and aromatic oregano, but it’s not hot or spicy. You can add a pinch of chili flakes if you want to bring in some heat.

Final Thoughts

Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce are a true celebration of fresh ingredients and bold, comforting flavors. They are easy to put together yet impressive enough to serve to guests anytime. Once you try making this dish, it’s bound to become a fast favorite in your weeknight rotation or your go-to for casual gatherings. So fire up that grill pan and get ready to enjoy a taste of Greece right from your kitchen!