Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce are one of those meals that make you feel like you’re sitting by the sea, soaking in the sunshine, even if you’re just in your own kitchen. The juicy, marinated chicken, creamy garlic yogurt sauce, and crisp fresh veggies come together over fluffy rice for a dish that’s as comforting as it is refreshing. It’s colorful, flavorful, and fast enough for a busy weeknight — yet satisfying enough to serve to guests.
When I first made this bowl, I wanted it to recreate the joy I felt eating chicken souvlaki on a tiny island in Greece. The herbs, the lemon, the char — it was simple, but unforgettable. And while I love a good skewer, I found that cubing the chicken and pan-searing it made this dish much more accessible for everyday cooking. Add that silky garlic sauce on top? Total magic.
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Why This Recipe Is So Special
What makes this Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowl such a favorite in my house is its balance. You’ve got savory chicken, creamy yogurt, fresh veggies, and that lemony bite — all in one spoonful. It’s colorful, satisfying, and every component works in harmony. Plus, it’s totally customizable: swap rice for quinoa, skip the olives if they’re not your thing, and double the garlic if you’re like me.
It’s also a crowd-pleaser. Serve it family-style or set up a bowl-building station at your next dinner party. It’s like a Mediterranean taco night, minus the stress.
Another reason I adore this dish? It’s a great gateway into Greek flavors without needing a trip to the market for obscure ingredients. Everything here is fresh, familiar, and fast. And if you’re already a fan of dishes like Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Hummus Spread or the Epic Grilled Chicken Greek Salad Bowl with Tzatziki Magic, you’ll fall in love with this one too.
Ingredients & Preparation
What You’ll Need to Make These Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce
The beauty of these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce lies in their simplicity. You’re not chasing down hard-to-find ingredients — just fresh, everyday staples that come together in the most satisfying way. Let’s break it down by component.
For the Chicken Souvlaki:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts or thighs | 1 lb | Boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized cubes |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | Helps the marinade coat the chicken |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Fresh is best |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp | Adds that classic Greek flavor |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Adjust as needed |
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Greek yogurt | ½ cup | Whole milk for extra creaminess |
| Garlic | 1 clove | Minced very finely |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Adds brightness |
| Olive oil | 1 tsp | Blends everything together |
| Salt | To taste | A pinch goes a long way |
For the Bowl:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked rice or quinoa | 2 cups | Warmed for serving |
| Cucumber | 1 cup | Diced |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup | Halved |
| Red onion | ¼ cup | Thinly sliced |
| Kalamata olives (optional) | ¼ cup | Adds briny depth |
| Fresh parsley | For garnish | Optional, but adds freshness |
Every part of this bowl works together to create contrast — the cool crunch of cucumber, the creamy garlic sauce, and the warm, lemony chicken. It’s a bowl that satisfies on every level.
Tools and Smart Substitutions
You don’t need any fancy gadgets to make this recipe — just your basics:
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Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce are a fresh, hearty, and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired meal featuring marinated chicken, creamy garlic yogurt sauce, rice, and vibrant veggies.
Ingredients
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• 2 cups cooked rice (or quinoa)
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup Kalamata olives (optional)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. In a bowl, mix chicken with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 30 minutes.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
3. In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Stir until smooth.
4. To assemble, layer rice in bowls, then top with chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and olives.
5. Drizzle garlic yogurt sauce over the top and garnish with parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
– You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for more juiciness.
– Quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice work well as a base.
– Double the garlic sauce if you like extra drizzle.
– Store each component separately and assemble when ready to serve.
– For extra char, grill the chicken instead of pan-cooking.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 15
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Greek
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A nonstick or cast-iron skillet for searing the chicken
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A small bowl for mixing the sauce
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A sharp knife and cutting board
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A mixing spoon and tongs
Optional but helpful: A microplane zester for a super fine garlic mince, which makes the yogurt sauce smoother and less harsh.
Substitution Ideas:
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Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: Thighs are juicier, but either works beautifully.
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Greek Yogurt: If you’re out, sour cream makes a decent stand-in, though it changes the flavor slightly.
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Grains: Quinoa, bulgur, or couscous are great rice swaps for added texture or protein.
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No Oregano? Italian seasoning or thyme can work in a pinch.
And if you love customizable meals like this, you might also enjoy the Greek Style Loaded Hummus or the Easy Greek Pasta Salad — both packed with Mediterranean vibes and perfect for summer meal prep.
Cooking Instructions & Tips
Step-by-Step: How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce
Making these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce is as easy as layering flavor after flavor. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a complete meal that feels straight out of a seaside taverna.
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss until every piece is coated. Let it marinate for at least 20–30 minutes. If you’ve got time, an hour in the fridge will deepen the flavor beautifully.
Tip: Marinate in a zip-top bag to save on cleanup — just massage the ingredients right in the bag.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat a nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pieces are golden and cooked through.
Tip: Avoid crowding the pan so the chicken sears instead of steams. If needed, cook in batches.
3. Mix the Garlic Sauce
While the chicken cooks, stir together the Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the seasoning — add more garlic if you’re feeling bold!
Optional: Chill the sauce while the rest of the bowl comes together for a refreshing contrast.
4. Assemble Your Bowls
Scoop a serving of warm rice or quinoa into each bowl. Top with a generous helping of chicken, then layer on diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, and olives (if using). Drizzle that creamy garlic sauce right on top. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce are now ready — fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor.
Tips for Getting It Just Right
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Want a charred finish? Use a grill pan or cast iron skillet and let the chicken sit undisturbed for a couple of minutes before flipping.
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Make it ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before and whip up the sauce in advance. Everything holds well for up to 3 days.
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Warm your base: Rice or quinoa straight from the fridge will make the bowl feel flat — a quick reheat in the microwave or stovetop works wonders.
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Double the garlic sauce if you like extra drizzle or plan to use it on other meals. It’s incredible on roasted veggies or even as a dip!
Craving more wholesome Greek-inspired meals? You’ll love the Loaded Mediterranean Chicken Power Bowl with Tzatziki and Feta or the bold, hearty Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry. Both are bursting with flavor and weeknight-friendly.
Serving, Storing & Pairing
What to Serve with Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce
These Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce are a meal in themselves, but they also shine when paired with a few light, fresh sides. If you’re feeding a crowd or just want to turn this into a Mediterranean feast, consider offering a couple of complementary dishes that echo the same bright, bold flavors.
A crisp green side like this Greek Style Beef and Zucchini Rice Bowl makes a beautiful companion on the table — especially when you’re entertaining. You can also set out a mezze platter with pita, olives, and the refreshing Mediterranean Hummus Bowl with Juicy Meatballs to start things off.
For drinks, think lemon-infused water, iced tea with mint, or even a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Assyrtiko. Dessert? A few pieces of baklava or Greek yogurt with honey and walnuts wrap up the meal perfectly.
And don’t underestimate how kid-friendly this dish is — everything is mild yet flavorful, and little ones love being able to build their own bowls.
How to Store & Reheat
These bowls are just as good the next day — maybe even better, once the flavors have had time to mingle.
Storage Tips:
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Chicken: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
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Garlic Yogurt Sauce: Keep chilled separately and use within 3 days.
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Veggies: Store fresh toppings like cucumbers and tomatoes in separate containers to prevent sogginess.
Reheating Tips:
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Chicken: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat or microwave in 30-second bursts.
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Rice: Add a splash of water before microwaving to keep it soft and fluffy.
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Do Not Reheat the Garlic Sauce — serve it cold over your warm bowl for that perfect contrast.
This recipe also packs wonderfully for lunch — just keep the sauce and toppings separate until you’re ready to eat for maximum freshness.
If you’re someone who loves prepping meals ahead, this dish is a meal-prep hero. It keeps well, tastes great cold or warm, and doesn’t get boring after one meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. They work beautifully in these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce, especially if you prefer a richer bite.
Is there a dairy-free alternative to the garlic yogurt sauce?
Yes — you can substitute coconut yogurt or a dairy-free plain yogurt for the Greek yogurt. Just be sure it’s unsweetened. The result will still be creamy and satisfying, though slightly less tangy.
Can I grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a pan?
Definitely. Traditional souvlaki is grilled, so if the weather’s nice or you’re firing up the barbecue, go for it! Just make sure the chicken is well-marinated and cooked through to a safe internal temperature (165°F/74°C).
How can I make this low-carb?
Swap the rice for cauliflower rice or chopped romaine for a low-carb version of this bowl. It’s still packed with flavor and just as satisfying.
Does the garlic sauce get stronger over time?
Yes — raw garlic intensifies as it sits. If you’re sensitive to strong garlic flavors, consider making the sauce fresh right before serving, or use roasted garlic for a milder touch.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken, sauce, and toppings in advance. Store everything separately and assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat. It’s an ideal meal prep recipe for busy weeks.
Conclusion
If you’re craving something fresh, filling, and packed with flavor, these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Garlic Sauce are going to be your new go-to. They strike the perfect balance between hearty and healthy, with juicy marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, and that creamy, garlicky sauce tying everything together.
What I love most is how versatile these bowls are. They work for quick weeknight meals, meal prep lunches, or even dinner parties. And once you try them, you’ll find yourself making them again and again. Honestly, if you’ve enjoyed bowls like this one from Little Spice Jar, I know you’ll fall in love with this homemade version too.
If you’re in the mood for more Mediterranean goodness, don’t miss the Loaded Mediterranean Chicken Power Bowl with Tzatziki and Feta — it’s another favorite in our house. Or try the Easy Greek Pasta Salad for a crowd-pleasing side dish.