If you’re on the lookout for a fresh and delicious meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare, you need to try Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce. This vibrant dish is a delightful combination of marinated grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a tangy feta sauce that is sure to impress your taste buds. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; it brings the flavors of Greece right to your kitchen without any fuss. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner, a meal prep for the week, or a gathering with friends, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.
The chicken is marinated with a wonderful blend of olive oil, lemon, and aromatic spices that make every bite incredibly flavorful. Paired with the creamy feta sauce, which complements the chicken perfectly, these Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls are a complete meal on their own. Packed with protein from the chicken, and filled with colorful veggies, this recipe is also nutritious, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while indulging in delectable flavors.
In this blog post, we will explore why you’ll love this dish, how to prepare it, and tips for making it your own. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Greek cuisine!
Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls
There are countless reasons to fall in love with Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls. Here’s why this dish deserves a spot in your weekly menu:
- Flavorful Marinade: The combination of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs creates a mouthwatering marinade that infuses the chicken with irresistible flavor.
- Customizable: Make it your own by swapping out grains or adding your favorite vegetables.
- Quick Cooking Time: With just a few minutes on the grill or in a skillet, this meal comes together quickly, perfect for busy weekdays.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh produce, these bowls balance nutrition and taste beautifully.
- Delicious Feta Sauce: The creamy feta sauce adds a rich, tangy flavor that takes the dish to another level.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into preparing your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls, it’s essential to set up your kitchen for success. Start by gathering all the ingredients listed in the recipe. A clean and organized workspace will make the cooking process smoother.
You’ll need basic kitchen tools such as cutting boards, a sharp knife for chopping and slicing, and a whisk for mixing your marinade. If you’re grilling the chicken, make sure your grill is preheated, or if you opt for a skillet, have it ready for cooking. A food processor or blender will be handy when making the creamy feta sauce, ensuring it achieves that luscious texture.
It’s also a great idea to prep your vegetables beforehand. Wash and chop your cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion, placing them in separate bowls to make assembly easier. Having everything organized will not only save time but will make your cooking experience far more enjoyable.
Ingredients
To create the Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp Kalamata olives, sliced
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
To kickstart the flavor journey, you’ll first need to prepare the marinade. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This marinade is not only flavorful but will help tenderize the chicken.
Take your chicken cubes and toss them into the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes. This time allows the chicken to absorb the lovely flavors of the marinade, making it juicy and irresistibly tasty once cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
After marinating, it’s time to bring the chicken to life. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If grilling, you may want to oil the grates slightly to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken pieces on the grill or in the skillet. Cook for approximately 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You want them to turn golden brown and be fully cooked through. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your chicken pieces, so make sure to check for doneness.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Feta Sauce
While the chicken is grilling, you can whip up the creamy feta sauce that will elevate your bowls. In a food processor, combine the crumbled feta cheese, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, achieving a perfect pourable consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. This sauce is rich and packed with flavor, making it the ideal complement to your chicken and vegetables.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Now for the fun part—building your bowls! Start with a base of your choice: cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous. Spoon the grilled chicken over the grain base, adding in a handful of cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives. Finally, don’t be shy with the creamy feta sauce; drizzle it generously over the top. Garnish each bowl with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a lovely presentation and added flavor.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, lamb, or tofu for a different protein option.
- Vegetables: Incorporate grilled bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a boost of nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne for heat, or include smoked paprika for a unique twist.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cut uniformly for even cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to retain juices.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a simple green salad or pita bread for a complete meal.
- Pair with a crisp white wine for a delightful dining experience.
Tips
- Prep your marinade the night before for the best flavor.
- Experiment with the feta sauce; try adding herbs like dill or chives for an extra kick.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (plus marinating time)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 650 per serving
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breasts work well, but they can sometimes be drier. Ensure you don’t overcook them to maintain moisture.
Can I prepare the bowls in advance?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and prep the veggies ahead of time. Just assemble the bowls when ready to eat.
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or cottage cheese for a similar creamy texture.
How long does the creamy feta sauce last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, the creamy feta sauce can last up to a week in the fridge, making it a perfect make-ahead component!
Conclusion
Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce is not just a meal; it’s a culinary journey to the sun-soaked shores of Greece with every bite! This dish perfectly combines marinated grilled chicken and fresh vegetables, all drizzled with a rich and creamy sauce. Feel free to make this recipe your own by exploring variations and ingredient swaps. Whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep for the week, these bowls are sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to share your experiences or any delicious variations in the comments below. Try it today and indulge in the flavors of Greece!
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Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce is a delightful combination of marinated grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a tangy feta sauce that brings the flavors of Greece right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp Kalamata olives, sliced
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Instructions
- To kickstart the flavor journey, you’ll first need to prepare the marinade. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This marinade is not only flavorful but will help tenderize the chicken.
- Take your chicken cubes and toss them into the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes.
- After marinating, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If grilling, you may want to oil the grates slightly to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken pieces on the grill or in the skillet. Cook for approximately 5 to 7 minutes on each side.
- While the chicken is grilling, whip up the creamy feta sauce by blending crumbled feta cheese, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Now build your bowls! Start with a base of cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous, top with grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives. Drizzle generously with the creamy feta sauce and garnish with fresh herbs.
Notes
Ensure the chicken is cut uniformly for even cooking. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to retain juices.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 40 g