Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki
Introduction
If you love meals that are fresh, juicy, colorful, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor, then these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki are about to become your new obsession. Picture this: perfectly seasoned chicken roasted until golden, crisp cucumbers tossed with lemon and dill, creamy feta crumbles, and that cool, tangy tzatziki drizzle that brings it all together. It’s the kind of bowl that tastes like sunshine, vacation, and a cozy dinner at home all at once.
Funny enough, the first time I made this recipe, my family polished off their bowls before I even sat down. I had barely finished slicing the avocado when someone yelled, “Are there seconds?” That’s when I knew this dish was going straight into our weeknight rotation—and that these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki were something special.
What makes these bowls so wonderful is how effortlessly they come together. The chicken marinates in simple ingredients you probably already have, the veggies require minimal chopping, and the toppings are customizable enough to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, everything cooks in under 30 minutes—faster than ordering takeout, and definitely more satisfying.
If you’ve tried my beloved Mediterranean chicken pita-style recipes, think of these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki as their hearty, bowl-style cousin—same bold flavors, but even more filling and perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re cooking for family night, prepping lunches for the week, or treating yourself to a nutritious and comforting dinner, this recipe will never disappoint. Let’s dive in and build the bowl of your dreams!
What Are Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki?
If the name Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki sounds fancy, don’t worry—it’s really just a fun way of saying “flavor-packed Mediterranean goodness in a bowl.” Souvlaki simply refers to small pieces of marinated meat, usually grilled or roasted, and served with fresh toppings. And tzatziki? That dreamy yogurt–cucumber–garlic sauce that somehow makes everything taste better. But why a bowl? Well… why not? Bowls make life easier, and who doesn’t love piling all the good stuff into one cozy dish?
Ever wondered who decided that chicken, yogurt, garlic, and lemon belong together? Whoever it was, they deserve a medal. As the classic saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and I’m convinced these bowls could win over just about anyone—partners, kids, roommates, or even just yourself after a long day. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, have some fun in the kitchen, and whip up your own delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki. Your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love These Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki
1. Juicy, Flavor-Packed Marinated Chicken
The true star of these bowls is the tender, smoky chicken. It’s marinated in a simple mixture of Greek yogurt, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, shallots, smoked paprika, fresh oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. The yogurt works like magic to tenderize the meat, so every bite is juicy and full of flavor. A quick broil at the end gives the chicken those irresistible charred edges that taste just like your favorite Greek takeout—but made fresh at home.
2. Cheaper and Healthier Than Takeout
Making Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki at home is not just delicious—it’s budget-friendly too. One restaurant bowl can easily cost over $15, but cooking this recipe at home gives you multiple servings for a fraction of the price. You’re using wholesome ingredients, customizing everything to your tastes, and skipping any unnecessary additives. It’s a win for your wallet and your health.
3. A Rainbow of Fresh, Flavorful Toppings
From creamy feta and buttery avocado to crisp cucumbers, bright dill, zesty lemon, peperoncini, onions, tomatoes, and those luscious drizzles of tzatziki and ginger–tahini, every component adds flavor and texture. It’s a bowl that feels exciting with every bite. If you’ve enjoyed Mediterranean grain bowls or Greek salads in the past, these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki take all of those vibrant elements and pack them into one satisfying meal.
Ready to bring Mediterranean magic into your kitchen? Let’s learn exactly how to make these bowls at home!
How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki
Quick Overview
These Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki are easy, fast, and incredibly satisfying. The chicken marinates in a simple yogurt and olive oil mixture, bakes in under 25 minutes, and gets finished with a quick broil for that irresistible char. While the chicken cooks, you’ll toss together a fresh cucumber–avocado mix and blend a quick ginger–tahini sauce. From start to finish, you’re looking at about 30 minutes of active cooking time, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back meal prep Sundays.
Key Ingredients for Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki
For the Chicken
- 1/3 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
- 6 garlic cloves, chopped
- 2 shallots, chopped
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
- Chili flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper (to taste)
For the Cucumber–Avocado Mix
- 2 Persian cucumbers, chopped
- 1 avocado, diced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Additional Bowl Ingredients
- 6 ounces crumbled feta cheese
- 1–2 cups tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Lettuce (romaine, iceberg, or your favorite mix)
- Peperoncini
- Onion, thinly sliced
- Tomatoes, chopped or sliced
- Pitas, warmed, for serving
For the Ginger Tahini Sauce
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 2 teaspoons grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 2 teaspoons tamari
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons honey
- About 1/4 cup water (plus more as needed to thin)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine the full-fat Greek yogurt, extra virgin olive oil, cubed chicken, chopped garlic, chopped shallots, smoked paprika, chopped oregano, chili flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir well so every piece of chicken is evenly coated in the marinade.
Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate it for up to overnight for deeper flavor. The longer it sits, the more flavorful and tender it will become.
2. Bake and Broil the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. Arrange the marinated chicken in an even layer on the baking sheet, making sure the pieces are not too crowded.
Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the pan from the oven and gently toss or flip the chicken pieces. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 5–10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
Switch the oven to the broil setting and broil the chicken for an additional 1–2 minutes, just until the edges become lightly charred. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn. Remove from the oven and set aside.
3. Make the Cucumber–Avocado Mix
While the chicken is baking, prepare the fresh veggie mix. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped Persian cucumbers, diced avocado, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to coat, being careful not to mash the avocado.
Set the bowl aside so the flavors can meld while you finish the other components.
4. Blend the Ginger Tahini Sauce
Add the tahini, grated ginger, grated garlic, tamari, lemon juice, honey, and about 1/4 cup of water to a blender or food processor. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
If the sauce is too thick, add more water a tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired pourable consistency. Taste and season with a pinch of salt if needed.
5. Build Your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki
Now for the fun part: assembling your bowls! Start by adding a generous handful of lettuce to each serving bowl. Top with a portion of the roasted chicken, followed by a spoonful of the cucumber–avocado mix.
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top, then add any additional toppings you like—onions, tomatoes, peperoncini, and warm pita wedges are all perfect here. Finish with a few generous dollops of tzatziki sauce and a good drizzle of the ginger tahini sauce.
Serve immediately and enjoy every flavorful, creamy, crunchy bite!
What to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki With
These Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki are a complete meal on their own, but a few simple sides or drinks can turn them into an unforgettable Mediterranean feast. Here are some delicious pairing ideas:
- Warm Pita or Naan: Perfect for scooping up every last bit of chicken, tzatziki, and tahini.
- Lemon Herb Rice: Serve the chicken and toppings over rice for an even heartier bowl.
- Greek Village Salad (Horiatiki): Add more crunch with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, and feta.
- Roasted Lemon Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and great with the chicken juices.
- Iced Mint Tea or Sparkling Lemon Water: Light and refreshing drinks that pair beautifully with the bold flavors.
Top Tips for Perfecting Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki
- Marinate Longer if You Can: An overnight marinade makes the chicken extra flavorful and tender.
- Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness: They’re more forgiving than breasts and stay moist, even if slightly overcooked.
- Don’t Skip the Broil: That quick blast of high heat adds a delicious char and deepens the flavor.
- Brighten with Lemon: A final squeeze of lemon juice over the finished bowl makes everything pop.
- Customize the Protein: Swap the chicken for shrimp, pork, or even marinated tofu to change things up.
- Prep Components Ahead: Marinate the chicken, chop the veggies, and make the sauces a day in advance for super easy assembly.
- Avoid Watery Tzatziki: If you make your own, be sure to drain the cucumbers well, or use a thick store-bought version.
Storing and Reheating Tips
One of the best things about these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki is how well they work for leftovers and meal prep. With a little planning, you can enjoy them for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
How to Store
- Chicken: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
- Cucumber–Avocado Mix: Best enjoyed within 1–2 days for maximum freshness.
- Tzatziki and Ginger Tahini: Keep in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
For best results, store the components separately and assemble your bowls just before serving. This keeps the lettuce and veggies crisp and the sauces fresh.
Can You Freeze Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls?
You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Simply cool it completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, and label it. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
The fresh veggies, cucumber–avocado mix, and tzatziki do not freeze well due to their high water content. It’s best to make those fresh when you’re ready to serve.
How to Reheat
- Microwave: Reheat the chicken in a microwave-safe dish for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Skillet: Warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a small splash of olive oil until heated through.
Once heated, add the chicken to a fresh bowl of lettuce and veggies, then top with tzatziki, ginger tahini, and your favorite toppings. It’ll taste just as amazing as day one!
Whether you’re new to Mediterranean flavors or already obsessed, these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tzatziki are a must-try. They’re simple, vibrant, nourishing, and endlessly customizable—exactly the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
