If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful, and effortlessly fresh meal, look no further than these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Feta Sauce – Ultimate 30-Minute Mediterranean Dinner Recipe. This dish brings together tender, marinated grilled chicken, a creamy and tangy herbed feta sauce, and a colorful medley of fresh vegetables atop a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. It’s a perfect harmony of savory, bright, and wholesome elements that’ll transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean coast, all done in just about 30 minutes – meaning dinner on the table without the fuss or wait.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The fantastic thing about this recipe is how straightforward yet essential each ingredient is. Every component plays a key role, contributing to the rich, fresh, and balanced flavors that make this dinner so irresistible.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 ½ lb): The lean protein base, cubed for quick marination and fast cooking.
- Olive oil (3 tbsp + 1 tbsp for sauce): Adds richness and helps lock in moisture both in marinade and sauce.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 tbsp + 1 tbsp for sauce): Brings a bright, zesty freshness that wakes up the flavor.
- Minced garlic (2 cloves): Adds subtle pungency that makes the marinade truly aromatic.
- Dried oregano (1 tsp): A classic Mediterranean herb that infuses warmth and authenticity.
- Paprika (½ tsp): Lends a gentle smoky depth and beautiful color.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- Crumbled feta cheese (½ cup): The star ingredient in the sauce, creamy and tangy with a salty bite.
- Plain Greek yogurt (½ cup): Adds smooth creaminess and lightens the feta sauce perfectly.
- Fresh dill and parsley (1 tbsp each, chopped): Herbaceous brightness in the sauce, rounding out every mouthful.
- Cooked rice or quinoa (2 cups): Provides a fluffy, hearty base for the bowls.
- Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved): Juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant color.
- Cucumber (1 cup, diced): Cool, crisp texture that refreshes each bite.
- Red onion (¼ cup, thinly sliced): Adds subtle sharpness and crunch.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): A finishing flourish with herby aroma.
How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Feta Sauce – Ultimate 30-Minute Mediterranean Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by creating a vibrant marinade that will infuse the chicken with classic Mediterranean flavors. Combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss the cubed chicken pieces in this zesty mixture, ensuring every piece is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step not only tenderizes the chicken but also guarantees that beautiful, bright flavor in every bite.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat until nice and hot. This intense heat will give your chicken that desirable golden crust. Add the marinated chicken cubes and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally so they brown evenly. When the chicken is cooked through and has a lovely char, it’s ready to be taken off the heat. Keep in mind this is where all the delicious caramelization happens, sealing in those juicy flavors.
Step 3: Prepare the Herbed Feta Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, mix the creamy sauce that brings everything together. In a small bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, fresh dill, fresh parsley, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. This luscious sauce has just the right tang and herbaceous kick that complements the smoky chicken perfectly.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Divide your cooked rice or quinoa evenly among four serving bowls. Arrange the grilled chicken on top, followed by the colorful cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thin slices of red onion. Each ingredient offers a balance of texture and freshness that makes this bowl a complete meal. Finally, drizzle your homemade herbed feta sauce generously over the top, and garnish with extra fresh parsley for a gorgeous pop of green.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Feta Sauce – Ultimate 30-Minute Mediterranean Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a must for garnish; it adds a fresh, bright note and enhances the dish’s aromatic appeal. For a little extra zing, consider adding a few lemon wedges on the side. A sprinkle of extra crumbled feta or a dash of smoked paprika right before serving also amplifies both color and flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own, but if you want to create a full Mediterranean feast, pair it with a crisp Greek salad or warm pita bread. Roasted vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, or bell peppers also match wonderfully, complementing the hearty chicken and refreshing sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, serve the components deconstructed so guests can build their own bowls to their liking. Alternatively, serve everything in a large, colorful platter straight from the kitchen, encouraging casual sharing. Adding edible flowers or microgreens elevates the presentation for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover chicken, vegetables, and sauce stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the freshest taste and texture for up to 3 days, perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to freeze portions, it’s best to freeze the cooked chicken separately from the rice or quinoa and sauce. Place everything in freezer-safe containers or bags and use within 2 months to preserve flavor and quality. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep it tender and juicy. Warm the rice or quinoa in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water. Serve with the feta sauce cold or at room temperature for that fresh Mediterranean tang.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful cut. Just adjust your cooking time slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked and enjoy that tender texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the feta and Greek yogurt in the sauce with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream or a plant-based yogurt, and use a vegan feta cheese if you can find one. The flavor will be slightly different but just as delicious.
Can I prepare the marinade and sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! The marinade can be made and stored in the fridge a day ahead, allowing the flavors to deepen. The herbed feta sauce also keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days, making this recipe great for meal prepping.
What’s the best grain to use for this recipe?
Rice and quinoa both work beautifully. If you want a nutty flavor and extra protein, quinoa is fantastic. For a more neutral, fluffy base, long-grain or basmati rice pairs perfectly with the bold toppings and sauce.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
While this particular dish highlights grilled chicken, you can easily swap the protein for grilled halloumi, tofu, or even roasted chickpeas for a satisfying vegetarian meal while keeping all the other delicious elements intact.
Final Thoughts
Whipping up these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Feta Sauce – Ultimate 30-Minute Mediterranean Dinner Recipe is like giving your taste buds a mini vacation to the sunny Mediterranean coast. With fresh ingredients, easy preparation, and vibrant flavors, it’s a meal that feels special yet so achievable on any busy weeknight. Give it a try and watch this recipe quickly become one of your favorite go-tos for fast, healthy, and absolutely delicious dinners.
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Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Feta Sauce – Ultimate 30-Minute Mediterranean Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating time)
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 48 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Herbed Feta Sauce is a vibrant and healthy Mediterranean dish that combines marinated grilled chicken with fresh vegetables, fluffy rice or quinoa, and a creamy, tangy feta yogurt sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner bursting with classic Greek flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 ½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Herbed Feta Sauce
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Black pepper, to taste
Bowl Assembly
- 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken breasts to the marinade and toss until fully coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Preheat the Grill Pan: Place a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and allow it to get hot before cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and thoroughly cooked through.
- Make the Herbed Feta Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together crumbled feta cheese, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, chopped dill, parsley, and a pinch of black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice or quinoa evenly among serving bowls.
- Add Toppings: Top each bowl with the grilled chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle the herbed feta sauce generously over each bowl and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Quinoa or brown rice can be used as a healthy grain alternative.
- Feel free to add other fresh veggies like bell peppers or olives for variation.
- Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
